— witsandnuts

Universal Studios Singapore (2 of 2)

Continued from Universal Studios Singapore (1 of 2)

As of its soft opening, the Universal Studios (Singapore) offers different attractions themed as the Ancient Egypt, Far Far Away, Sci-Fi City, Madagscar, Hollywood, and New York.

Ancient Egypt

The Ancient Egypt prides on the Revenge of the Mummy (you face warrior mummies in an indoor thriller roller coaster ride) and Treasure Hunters (you get to drive your own desert jeep through a manmade Egyptian excavation site). In the same area, a souvenir shop and restaurant are available, kookily named as Carter’s Curiousities and Oasis Spice Cafe, respectively.

Far Far Away

Probably the most popular among the visitors is the Far Far Away, not only because of the kingdomlike atmosphere but due to the activities in the area.

They have the Shrek 4-D adventure, Donkey Live (sing along with donkey in an interactive live show), Enchanted Airways (roller coaster) and Magic Potion Spin (kiddie ferris wheel).

We decided to redeem our SGD 5 voucher from the Fairy Godmother’s Potionshop (houses the souvenirs). However, it was understandably not sufficient for the Shrek pillow, Puss in Boots stuffed toy and keychains that we have got. So many cute things inside. Although I am not much a fan of Shrek franchise, it was only from this souvenir shop inside the theme park we gave in to temptation

As mentioned in the preceding post, the queue to the attractions takes an average of two hours. Thanks really to the express pass. Since it is a little expensive though (additional SGD 30/person), I do not necessarily encourage you to buy it. But speaking from our experience during the weekend visit, it made everything smooth sailing. Imagine humbly skipping two hours of waiting time for most of the attractions. So, it’s up to your personal circumstance. But I am glad we opted for it.

Inside the Shrek 4-D cinema you will see, hear and feel the action from your seat to join Shrek the movie characters in their fairytale adventure. The story premised on the revengeful ghost of Lord Farquaad. Be prepared for water sprinkling while seated (part of the effects).

The meet and greet sessions for Shrek and Fiona generally occur infront of the castle. But in the morning we caught Shrek inside his house. Yeah, the ogre’s house.

In case he is not in, the visitors are always welcome. Take note of the giggly warning.

There are two restaurants within the Far Far Away vicinity: Goldilocks (no, not that one from Manila) and Friar’s (where we had lunch) which both serve sandwiches, fish and chips, etc. The Fairy Godmother’s Juice Bar, wherein you can mix your own colorful elixirs, is also available. We enjoyed lunching in this area because it was so refreshing from all angles – the cute poses and antics added to the cheerful air. Who knows, we probably were being photographed, too.

The Lost World

The Lost World houses the Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure, Canopy Flyer (inverted roller coaster), Dino Soarin (kiddie ride on a Pteranodon), Amber Rock Climb (you get to scale the walls to explore artificial precious stones and fossilised insects), and Waterworld (impressive live watershow as mentioned in the preceding post).

The Rapids Adventure was exciting but expect to get wet. We bought disposable ponchos (SGD 2) which are available in the Jurassic outfitters (sells themed hats, shirts, picture frames and more; there’s also the Dino Store).

You will probably get a little scared if you have a claustrophobia since you will be passing by an enclosed area which is intentionally packed into darkness, with complete haunting atmosphere from the dinosaurs. I remember closing my eyes. Haha. As you exit the hydroelectric plant, the boat will literally slide. Just so you can expect more splashes.

The Discovery foodcourt is probably the most exciting to try because of the jurassic setting. For quick bites, Fossil Fuels stall is also nearby.

Sci-Fi City

The Sci-Fi City houses the Battlestar Galactica (Cyclon – blue track and human – red track) and the Accelerator.

Madagascar

Aside from catching the Madagascar characters in the Move It dance show, you can also enjoy a river boat ride with them through the Crate Adventure. In the same area, there is King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round (carousel). If you wish to have some mementos aside from the photos during the meet and greet, you can check the Penguins Mercantile wherein they sell keepsakes inspired by Madagascar characters. Themed restaurants are Marty’s Casa Del Wild (serves Southeast Asian favorites such as Thai green chicken curry and tom yum) and Gloria’s Snack Shack (offers Japanese rice bowls and seafoods).

Hollywood

Just right after the park’s entrance, you would be strolling the Hollywood.

It is home to Pantages Hollywood Theater where you get to see the infamous Universal monsters in a rock and roll musicale (Monster Rock). We even watched Ironman, just a perfect way to rest the tired feet (and arms from shuttering) while waiting for the 10:00 PM fireworks display at the lake (available on Fridays and Saturdays only). The movie being screened changes every week.

This area has plenty of merchandise shops: Universal Studios Store which sells themed collectible, toys and apparels, The Dark Room (for visitor’s photo related needs), Star Characters, Silver Screen Collectibles, Super Star Candies, The Brown Derby (sells accessories and hats designed for the youngsters), and That’s a Warp (last stop by the theme park exit). Themed restaurants to choose from are Celebrity Cafe and Bakery, Hollywood China Bistro, and Mel’s Drive In (Classic 1950′s drive-in that serves All-American favourites/where we took dinner).

It is simply a colorful spot.

New York

As you turn right from Hollywood is New York, which is more colorful.

Its main attraction is Steven Spielberg’s Lights, Camera, Action wherein incredible special effects are showcased.

Do not miss the Filipino dancers in the Rockafellas.

Vintage cars were a favorite, too.

And after the exit, it is impossible to miss this Hershey’s store. I just had to randomly pick items/flavours which are not available in the UAE. But no, I did not get that biggest Hershey’s chocolate bar. It would be an interesting pasalubong though.

On its soft opening, Universal Studios in Singapore is indeed impressive.