Singapore - Universal Studios Singapore

On our second day in Singapore, Diendo and I immediately decided to spend the rest of the day in Universal Studios Singapore.

So from Lavender Station (we had to book our bus tickets to KL) we went straight to VIVO City Mall and boarded the Sentosa Express. The E-Z Link that we have earlier purchased at the Tampines proved to be a blessing since we did not have to waste time in buying our tickets.

I highly recommend that you purchase the E-Z Link should you spend 3-4 days in Singapore. Though, you will spend S$5.00 non-refundable deposit for the card, it is more advantageous since aside from not having to queue everytime you ride the MRT, which is the transportation of choice in Singapore, you can also use it should you wish to ride the bus. More importantly, the fare in using the E-Z Link is cheaper as compared when you buy single journey tickets at the MRT.

Also the Vivo City Mall may be conveniently reached through the purple line of the MRT. The Harbourfront Station is actually located in the basement of Vivo. On the other hand, the Sentosa Express may be found at the 4th level of the mall.

The Sentosa Express

If you are going to the USS, as in our case, you will alight at the Waterfront Station, the first station from Vivo City. Along the way, we really cannot hide our anticipation especially when we saw the cable cars from Mt. Faber to Sentosa.

From the Station, we rushed to the ticketing area as we were welcomed by the world-famous Universal Studios globe. Since we went there on a weekend, we paid the high-peak rate of S$72.00. High-Peak days is from Fridays to Sundays, including Holidays. On the other hand, the low-peak rate is pegged at S$60.00. Nonetheless, those who will use a Mastercard in purchasing their tickets are entitled to a 20% discount. Also, senior-citizens are entitled to a similar 20% discount.

Universal Studios Singapore

For chocolate lovers, the Hershey's Chocolate World is located just before the entrance going to the USS. There are also other shops in the area offering a smorgasbord of products and services.


The USS is divided into zones, each catering to different interests. True to its concept, the Hollywood Area is the first thing that will greet visitors. Shops offering different kinds of souvenirs are located here. However, I advise you to buy just before you leave USS so that you shall be able to maximize your time in enjoying the rides and shows inside.

The next zone will be New York in case you turn right from the entrance (Hollywood). Here you will find theaters where you can find different shows such as the Monster Rock and the Steven Spielberg inspired Lights Camera Action. Some member of the famous Filipino dance group, The Streetboys now known as the Ruckafellas, perform at the World Premier Theater.

Monster Rock

The Monster Rock is actually a 30-minute musical wherein the world's most famous Monsters perform. Among those who wow the crowed with their singing include Dracula, The Phantom, The Bride, Werewolf, and Frankenstein.

One of the more interesting shows in USS is the Lights Camera Action by Steven Spielberg. The place is supposedly designed as an actual set in a movie shooting. The show starts with a ten-minute briefing by no less than Mr. Spielberg himself. Then the crowd is made to proceed in a room and shown how a category 5 hurricane in New York City is simulated whenever they shoot movies.

The next area is the Sci Fi City which includes the Battlestar Gallactica. For me, this is the unquestionable centerpiece of USS. It consists of two dueling rollercoasters, the Cylon and the Human. Though both is not for the fainthearted, the Cylon will really test your mettle and is definitely more enjoyable than the Human.

Cylon

Human

Battlestar Galactica is a simulated battle between Aliens and Humans

The Ancient Egypt is situated just after the Battlestar Galactica. One of the more popular rides, "The Mummy Returns", is found here. Imagine, we queued for at least an hour and a half before we got our turn in this one heck of a ride. Interesting statues also give lots of photo opportunities for everybody so the place can really get cramped-up.

The Lost World is where you can find two zones which Jurassic Park and the Waterworld. Jurassic Park is based on the film franchise popularized by Steven Spielberg and the novels penned by Michael Crighton. On the other hand, Waterworld is based on the blockbuster movie starring Kevin Costner.

Among the attractions in this area include the Canopy Flyer, a four-seater rollercoaster suspended 25-ft high that glides and gives riders a different view of not only of Jurassic Park but of the entire area as well. There is also the Amber Rock Climb and the Dino Soarin' ride for kids.

Too bad, the River Rapids Adventure was undergoing renovation at that time. The target date for its reopening is sometime February 2012.

Canopy Flyer

Waterworld is situated just beside Jurassic Park. Here, you will surely be in awe of the stunts of the performers and the pyrotechnics used during the show.

However, take note that the seats are color-coded. The nearer you are to the performance area, the bigger the possibility that you will get wet before or during the show.

Far Far Away is of course inspired by Shrek. The centerpiece of this zone is the Far Far Away Castle, which is purportedly the first in the world. Inside, visitors can enjoy the Shrek 4D Adventure. It is actually a 3D Movie wherein you experience the humps, bumps, and the splahses as you accompany Shrek rescue Fiona.

Enchanted Airways, a mini-rollercoaster and Donkey Live are the other attractions that kids will surely enjoy.






Madagascar is the final area when you go counter-clockwise from the entrance. So it is immediately to the left should you decide to try it first. Madagascar appeals more to little kids and I bet, your kiddos will surely enjoy the Carousel (King Julien's Beach Party-Go-Round) and of course, the Crate Adventure. Position is key here as you may actually be the lucky person who will given a free splash of "coconut water".

I really enjoyed USS Singapore so here are some tips tha you may find useful in case you visit the place.

1. Allot 1 whole day for your stay in USS, operating hours is from 10:00AM to 7:00PM. USS alone is 20 hectares in area, so you must also reserve lots of energy.

2. It also helps if you arrive early. You get to take your pictures at the "Universal" globe without all the people walking around. Also, this will give you time to take pictures at the entrance area.

3. Look for promos. - Ticket rates for ordinary weekdays are lower compared to the rates during peak days (Holidays and weekends including Fridays). The park also gives 20% discount to senior citizens (60yrs and above). In our case, we purchase our tickets using Mastercard so we were given a discount for 20%

4. Pick one of the USS brochures at the booth near the entrance, just before you reach the popcorn stall. Various information about USS, including a detailed map and the schedules of the various shows like Waterworld, are provided in the brochure.

5. If you wish to enjoy the rides, forget the picture taking first and go straight to the more popular rides like the Battlestar Galactica, The Mummy, Shrek 4D, and The Mummy Returns. You will waste valuable time just falling in line for at least 30 minutes.

6. In case you happen to visit the park on a Friday or Saturday, the Hollywood After Hours from 7:00 t0 10:00PM is a can't miss. A magnificent fireworks display is the highlight of the event

7. From the USS, you may choose to watch the 2nd or final showing of the Songs of the Sea. Just do not forget to buy your tickets in advance.

8. Do not forget to hydrate yourself since it can really get hot while you roam around the park especially around noontime. Drinking stations around the park are available.