Since 1936 Jungle island has been part of the South Florida family. Jungle island relocated to its current location, at Watson island, in 2003 to better cater to its guest. Jungle island 18-acre facility is home to amazing and rare animals from twin orangutans, the world’s largest cat, the liger, and over 300 vibrant birds. This past June 27, Jungle Island announced that John Dunlap is the park’s new president. His company, Iconic Attractions Group, will manage all aspects of the park’s operation. This past Friday, I had the pleasure to speak with Mr. Dunlap and today I wanted to tell you more of what I learned. Following you will find a resume version of our conversation.
(photo credit, Jungle Island)
Why did you want to take part of this project?
Mr. Dunlap understands that families visit zoos to have a wholesome experience and this is the major reason why he wants to help protect these precious animals so that future generations can enjoy them. Jungle island is an urban oasis where both kids and grown ups alike can enjoy & connect with animals in a safe and intimate setting. His vision is to continue to provide a setting where we can all LEARN & PLAY in the context of nature, where people can have a personal experience or just to be inspire.
What is your vision for Jungle Island’s future?
Mr. Dunlap envisions a continued growth for Jungle Island, built on its current reputation as best of weddings 2013 by the Knot Magazine. He want to continue to make Jungle Island a preferred destination not only in South Florida but the world. Growth its retail experience, providing great food options, new exhibits, continued investment and refreshment of the park will all take place systematically. One thing he would like is to see Jungle Island embrace the city’s climate, in other words the heat. A water and nature adventure play area maybe in Jungle Island’s near future.
What do you want South Florida families to know about you?
As parents, our children are our inspiration! Mr. Dunlap is a father to three young children, his children are his inspiration to built a destination where families can enjoy family time. Mr. Dunlap believes that all children need a place where they can explore and experience nature as we did when we were growing up. During our conversation, Mr. Dunlap mentioned the book Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv. Last Child in the Woods describes startling facts about how today’s children are suffering from Nature-deficit disorder. Our children can better identify cartoon characters than native species, nature can provide them with ways to cope with many of today’s ailment but mostly it can stimulate their creativity. An authentic, high, premiere quality attraction where we can spend the entire day cultivating our creativity is what Mr. Dunlap want to provide for everyone at Jungle Island.
And finally, what is your personal message for South Florida families?
Mr. Dunlap is excited to bring his vision to Miami, he wants us to be patient and go back often. He understand that Jungle Island is an extension of our own backyards and he wants to make sure that we know that. He is preparing new and exciting events for the park. Your feedback is essential to the future of Jungle Island so reach out and reach out often. For more information on Jungle Island visit their Website, or Facebook or Twitter Pages.