million, including a EUR 17 million subsidy from the state of Brandenburg. The purpose of the subsidy for the development work was to preserve the 501 jobs. In 2008, a campsite was added close to the Tropical Islands hall. Problems At first, visitor numbers remained behind original estimates. For a cost-effective operation, 1.25 million visitors per year are required. In 2005, the resort lost between 10 and 20 million euros. By October 2006 there were about 600,000 visitors. The initial lack of visitors has been attributed to various reasons, including the relatively remote location of Tropical Islands. In addition, in Berlin, South Brandenburg, the direct surrounding area of the resort, the disposable income is below the national average. The target demographic of the resort was extended to attract visitors from further away, including Poland. By altering the ticket price structure and adding new overnight accommodation, visitors attendance has been improved. According to the then managing director Ole Bested Hensing, 2008 was the first time Tropical Islands Resort made a profit. It recorded 300,000 overnight stays. At the start there were problems with the plants that were under the light-tight dome. In October 2005, the southern front along the "South Sea" bathing area had a special UV-transparent film made of ETFE installed. This "window" allows daylight. The palms, trees and bushes have grown well since. See also Hangar One References "Waterpark Information" (in German). External links Tropical Islands Resort English Homepage Article on Tropical Islands Water parks in Germany Tourist attractions in Brandenburg Buildings and structures in Dahme-Spreewald Indoor amusement parks 2004 establishments in Germany