The annual event is the largest conference and trade show in the world for the amusement park and attractions industry. The 2006 numbers are similar to the last year?EUR??,,????'?????<

Of note, was attendance from Southeast Asia increased 61 percent this year and attendance from casino-gaming companies increased 20 percent.

More than 5,800 people participated in seminars, workshops and behind-the-scenes tours of area attractions. Mark Shapiro, president and CEO of Six Flags Inc., addressed a group of more than 300 industry leaders at the general managers and owners breakfast. About 500 people also attended a get-together at the Georgia Aquarium.

Next year (Nov. 12-16), and in 2008, the IAAPA Expo returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. The show was last held in Orlando in 2004. Las Vegas will host its first IAAPA Attractions Expo in 2009.

IAAPA represents over 4,500 facility, supplier and individual members from more than 85 countries.