According to recent reports, domestic tourism is on the rise in the US again, which is good news for waterparks while the Asian market, particularly China, is also buoyant at the moment.

Canadian theme park designer, Forrec, is involved in a number of projects in China, including two set to open next year: one in Nanjing, the other at The Beijing Watercube, which hosted the swimming competitions of the 2008 Olympic Games.

"The architectural significance of the Beijing Watercube, as well as the unique form of the structure required a world class design solution and out of the box thinking," said Forrec's vice president, Anthony Van Dam.

"It's a dynamic space and every detail has been considered from theatrical lighting and glass mosaic tiles to custom props and first ever attractions." Details of the rides are still under wraps, but they're being provided by WhiteWater West, Empex Watertoys and Proslide.

Spanning 20 hectares, the Nanjing waterpark will be one of the largest in China, and has a distinctly Chinese architectural style, blended with western attractions. It combines indoor and outdoor waterparks and a 1,000-bed hotel, with the aim of establishing this as an all year round attraction.

(For more information, please see AM4/2009 Waterparks feature)