Biofeedback, dementia-friendly design and Cuba have been identified as trends and strategies which will have a big impact on the attractions market in 2016 and beyond.

The annual Attractions Foresight report identifies 20 trends, strategies and technologies which will shape the future of the sector.

Among the foresights highlighted, biofeedback was identified as having great potential. With ride designers creating evermore immersive and exciting experiences, robotic systems can affect the environment by measuring responses like breathing, heart-rate and body temperature. Using these sensors, ridemakers can have a room increase in temperature, change colour or build dramatic music. These sensors are fitted to people in a game, which could trigger things such as locks, lights and motors among other things.

The foresight also suggests that an ageing global population will mean attractions will need to start accommodating dementia sufferers with well thought-out colour and decor schemes needed for those who have depth perception and visual processing problems. Dementia sufferers have difficulty with memory, so the Attractions Foresight report suggests appropriate signage that is easily recognisable will be important so entire families can enjoy their visit.

Cuba has been identified as a hotspot for emerging visitor attractions as diplomatic relations with the US begin to thaw for the first time in 30 years. After President Barack Obama reached an agreement with the island nation to relax tensions between the two countries, the number of Americans visiting Cuba jumped 36 per cent over five-month period. Even though business and tourist embargoes with the US remain intact, investors who strike up partnerships in Cuba now will be ahead of the game ahead of a predicted tourism influx.

The full version of the 2016 Attractions Foresight report is available in the latest issue of Attractions Management, available now.