Third Kalahari Resorts location opening this summer

topey@sanduskyregister.comKalahari Resorts & Conventions is expecting to open their third resort by July.The Sandusky Register was there in June 2012 when Kalahari Resorts owner Todd Nelson announced they were building a resort in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania."The Pocono Mountains is one of the premier tourist destinations in the country, and the area offers a multitude of amenities and attractions," said owner Todd Nelson.The interview was conducted by e-mail because Nelson was traveling.There is something for everyone."With about 50 million people living in a three-hour radius, there's a lot of potential to tap," he stated.Kalahari Resorts—Pocono's is Pennsylvania's largest indoor water park at 100,000 square feet. The Pocono's waterpark is distinguished from the other Kalahari Resorts by its 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course, horseback riding, archery, fishing, skiing, sledding and more.It was 20 years ago Nelson went to Africa for the first time. It was that trip that inspired the mega success that would become Kalahari Resorts."The native culture, spirit, craft and artistry struck a cord in me. This trip inspired me to recreate the experience and capture the magic and heritage of local African communities in the U.S. For families to enjoy," Nelson wrote.The first park opened in the Wisconsin Dells, where the Nelson family lives and operate a pizzeria called Pizza Pub. He positioned himself on the forefront of the Dell's waterpark boom which is known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World", Nelson said.The Nelson family continues to travel frequently to Africa, including a recent 23-day visit where they selected new items for the new Pocono's resort as well as Sandusky and Wisconsin Dells. That includes handpicking coffee beans from Rwanda to brew at the resorts."Visiting Africa has enlightened my sense of community," Nelson stated.People are able to make reservations now by going to www.kalahariresorts.com/pennsylvania. Guest Rooms • 457 guest rooms & suites • 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites including Penthouse suites Water and Family Entertainment Center• 100,000 sq. ft. indoor waterpark• 30,000 sq. ft. family entertainment center featuring black light mini golf, XD Dark Ride, bowling, arcade games and moreMeeting & Exhibit facilities • 65,000 sq ft of flexible space • 25,000 and 9,000 sq ft ballrooms • 18 meeting rooms & multiple hospitality suites • Large grade level access to main exhibit facility • Full service business center • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.Additional Recreation• Spa Kalahari and Salon• Kamp Kalahari activity programs