Universal Studios Singapore

So, I managed to coax a friend into traveling down south for the Raya holidays. The boredom has reached it heights and it just felt like I got to get out of the house and go some where. The lodgings and the entrance tickets were bought at the very last minute, which was half a day before the trip. Surprisingly, and luckily, not only were they still available, they were very very very reasonable as well.

We put up at Thistle Hotel, Johor Bahru. In case you are wondering, it's on the same stretch as Danga Bay and around 5 minutes drive to the Woodlands checkpoint. Like I said, for a last minute booking which coincided with the festive season, we had been very very lucky. Our room had a full view of the sea and it came with a rather spacious bath tub. So, after the 4 hours drive, all we did was soaked ourselves in the tub and enjoyed the fireworks display on the hotel bed at night.

The initial expectation of the Studio was rather high, after all the hype and the "hoo-hah" that was made out of it. But after that one day tour of the entire place, I didn't think that it was that grand after all. I wouldn't return for a second visit. Perhaps part of the reason could be attributed to the heat and the endless crowd. Perhaps another reason would be the age factor. I'm no longer 10 you see. But I do give them credit for their excellent customer service and the fact that they gave employment opportunities to senior citizens.

The place housed 6 themes. And you could cover them all in one day. Provided you get in right when they open and leave right when they close. It's rather standard for all of them. Each theme boasts 1 or 2 shows, food stalls, souvenier shops and perhaps another 1 or 2 rides. We skipped the rides. I bet you would too when the queue was like snake long. No point "fighting" with kids and their parents. But we did waited in line for 45 minutes for a 15 minutes 4D Shrek movie. Under the scorching heat of the sun. It was worth it. Oh, another thing to applaud the Studio. All of their shows had been fantastic. We ended the day with a little winning at the casino. Hah! At least the parking fare was taken cared of.

 

 

 

 

Oh, and one more thing. Did caught up briefly with Kenny and Jac in JB. Nothing could be more perfect than to meet up old friends over a glass of beer. Just like the good old days. They are doing well and fine. Some people just never change. :)