VILNIUS - With global warming doing its dirty job, snow would be a pleasant surprise for the lovers of winter sports. However, the weathermen are saying that snow is highly unlikely in Lithuania this January; thus, many are choosing other activities instead of the usual winter fun. One winter sports alternative: a day at Lithuania's newest indoor aqua park.
It seems that the Druskininkai Aqua Park opened at exactly the right time - just before Christmas. Now that the facility's "grand opening" is over and the long lines have subsided, the amusement park is the perfect refuge for relaxation after the holiday.
Located in the small town of Druskininkai, approximately 100 kilometers south of Vilnius, the gigantic water park is the first of its kind in Lithuania.
An aquatic wonderland, the park includes slides totalling 600 meters in length, 18 different saunas, jacuzzis, a wave pool (which simulates authentic ocean waves for the hidden Californian surfer within us all), and a kiddie pond filled with fountains, slides and colorful water toys, among other attractions.
Since most of us don't live in the quaint town of Druskininkai, transportation is an issue. If you're driving a car, don't worry about getting lost - even though the road signs may lead you into a circle around Druskininkai, ask any local and he'll tell you the several short cuts to the central aqua park.
But then there's the challenge, once inside the aqua park, of navigating your way around the labyrinth of twirling slides, steaming pools and cavernous saunas. Although the main signs are only in the Lithuanian language (the aqua park is still under final developments, and official English translations have not yet been posted), keep your eye out for small instruction sheets (A4 size) on the walls, printed in both English and Russian.
If you aren't a crowd lover, I suggest buying a ticket for the "extra baths complex." This way you can enjoy the park's various saunas and indoor pools with only a handful of other people; leaving most of the crowd in line for the more popular attractions.
Children and teenagers will most likely head straight for the slides. And there are plenty of them 's plummeting drops, spiralling tunnels, and smaller slopes for little ones. So whether you're looking for a stomach-turning thrill or simply water-splashing fun, there's a niche for everyone.
But, as the age-old saying goes, good things come to those who wait. And waiting in line 's for both water slide tubes and the slides themselves 's is part of the deal. That's why it's best to visit the park with a friend, so at least you have some company during the wait.
All in all, the Druskininkai Aqua Park is a relaxing way to escape these blustery winter days. That is, until the first snow falls…
Druskininkai Aqua Park
Open Friday-Sunday
For prices and information:
www.akvapark.lt
