Singapore Tour [ Day 1 ] - Universal Studios Singapore | SEA Aquarium | Esplanade

It was March 2014 when we had our Singapore trip. We left the Philippines through Cebu Pacific Airlines from Cebu City.

We arrived at Singapore few minutes before midnight. As we exit the Changi Airport Terminal 2, we hailed a cab to take us to our accommodation.

(Read my previous post 'Singapore Arrival and Getting Around the City')

Singapore Day 1

We started our first day at Singapore with a breakfast at McDonalds (we opted for something familiar) across Bugis Junction. After breakfast, we head to Bugis MRT Station to buy EZLink Card for MRT and bus rides.

Day 1 places to visit

•  Sentosa Island
• Universal Studios Singapore
• S.E.A Aquarium
• Raffles Place
• Merlion Park
• Esplanade
• Helix Bridge
• Marina Bay Sands

We started our journey at Bugis MRT Station (it's our first MRT ride ever!). We alighted at an interchange (Outram Park), rode another train that will take us to Harbourfront, the jump off point to Sentosa Island. Take Exit E of Harbourfront station.

Head to the 3rd level (Lobby L) of Vivo City Shopping mall to transfer to Sentosa Express. Fare is S$4. This is a one time payment, going back to Vivo City from Sentosa Island is free of charge.

Riding a bus to Sentosa Island is also an option. Proceed to the bus stop either outside VivoCity shopping mall or Merrill Lynch Harbourfront. For a flat fee of $2, guests will be taken into the resort.

Image from: http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/53852738.jpg

Universal Studios

Welcome to the Universal Studios Singapore! Once we entered the USS grounds, I felt like a little kid again: very excited and just wanna have fun!

My BoyF with the famous Universal Globe.

 USS is divided into 7 Themes:

• New York
• Sci-Fi City
• Ancient Egypt
• The Lost World
• Far Far Away
• Madagascar
• Hollywood

USS Map

Different kinds of attractions can be seen on each of these places.
We started walking from New york, going counter clockwise (see map above) and ended in Hollywood.
Along the way, we entered different stores, rode the Transformer Ride (the coolest ride ever! a must try!) and watched the 4D Theater which features Shrek. I would have loved to ride the Mummy Ride but I lose my guts during the time.

We had our lunch at The Discovery Food Court located at The Lost World. They have a chicken rice combo, drinks included for only S$11.50.

Discovery Food Court - Lost World

More pictures inside USS:

Sci-Fi City

Pathway to Transformers Ride

BattleStar Galactica - no longer operating

Jurassic Park - The Lost World

Madagascar

Far Far Away

The tour was really worth it!
We ended our visit to USS with picture taking of the famous Kung Fu Panda and the cute minions!

S.E.A Aquarium


S.E.A Aquarium is located on the other side of Universal Studios, few meters away from the famous Universal Globe.

S.E.A Aquarium is bigger than our local Manila Ocean Park. I have also seen species that are new to me.
Different kinds of sea creatures are showcased. There is also a dolphin area somewhere inside this huge building.

My favorite part, is seeing this big aquarium (the biggest one I've seen in my life'). See image below.

Image from: http://sgtravelinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/sea-aquarium.jpg

This area is really nice. We sat down the floor and just enjoyed the beautiful scenery in front of us.


Raffles Place

We left Sentosa by taking the Sentosa Monorail back to Vivo City. From Harbour Front Station, we rode the SMRT to Outram Park then transferred to another line going to Raffles Place.

Somewhere in Raffles Place

Merlion Park

From Raffles Place MRT, take Exit B and walk until you reach Collyer Quay Rd. Cross the street by taking the flyover (Refer to image below. The flyover is the structure in black glass, crossing the street).

The Merlion Park  located at the back of One Fullerton Hotel, and is facing Marina Bay Sands.
The Merlion is an imaginary creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, used as a symbol of Singapore.

Esplanade, The Float at Marina Bay, Helix Bridge

To get to the other side, take the bridge above Merlion Park. This will lead you to the Esplanade.

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a waterside building located on six hectares of waterfront land alongside Marina Bay near the mouth of the Singapore River, purpose-built to be the centre for performing arts for the island nation of Singapore (Wikipedia).

Theathres by the Bay (Durian-like dome)

The Float at Marina Bay is known as the world's largest floating stage. This stadium is a venue for different events, can include sports, concerts, exhibitions and others.

The Float Stadium

Floating Football Field

My beau is a football fan and upon seeing this amazing stadium, he was in awe!

Youth Olympic Park is located at the junction of Raffles Avenue and Bayfront Bridge.

Another famous landmark of Singapore is the Helix Bridge. The Helix Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that links Marina Bay and Marina Centre. 

Helix Bridge at daytime

Oh the structure! Believe me, it looks better than this. But this looks most amazing at night. Checkout the image below (I have to grab other's pic. Mine just doesn't give any justice.)

 

Image from: http://biomimi.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/helixbridge.jpg

It was just in time for the 'I Light Marina Bay' event when we visited Singapore. We were able to see the works of various participants using energy-efficient LED lights and the incorporation of sustainable, recycle and/or re-usable materials into their light artworks.

Giant Dandelion

The above artwork is made of recycled water bottles that are cut and connected to one another by a nylon weave. Each flower is lit by an energy efficient bulb.


Marina Bay Sands and Marina Bay Shoppes, Gardens by the Bay

The other end of the Helix Bridge connects The Shoppes at Marina Bay. From the name and the look of it, it is one of Singapore's luxury shopping malls. It has full-glass windows which is very contemporary and offers views of the Marina Bay skyline.

The Shoppes full-glass windows

Inside The Shoppes @Marina Bay

Surprisingly, they have Sampan rides inside the mall.

Image from: http://snowbeartravels.blogspot.com/2010/12/marina-bay-sands.html

The Shoppes is connected to Marina Bay Sands. This landmark building is picture perfect. Just pure luxury!

Dine Cheaply

The Makansutra Gluttons Bay in Esplanade is an open air food center that offers cheap dining with the view of Marina Bay skyline. Each hawker has unique delicacies and local treats. Satay, fried carrot cake and roti are some must try's when in Singapore.

Image from: http://image.wishbeen.com/spot/thumb_1399291713364_IMG_3915.jpg

To go back to Bugis, take the Downtown Line from Bayfront.

We surely had a productive day 1 in Singapore. More attractions on my next post ;)

Taoist Temple Cebu City

A visit to Cebu City will never be complete without visiting the famous Taoist Temple. This attraction is located in Beverly Hills Subdivision in Cebu City. The temple was built in 1972 as the center of worship for the religion Taoism. Devotees climb its 81 steps (representing the 81 chapters of Taoism scriptures) to light joss sticks and offer their prayers.

The entrance to the temple is a replica of the Great Wall of China. The temple includes a chapel, a library, a souvenir shop and a wishing well. The spacious balconies offer a scenic view of the downtown Cebu.

Beautiful koi fishes

How To Get Here

Ayala Centre to Taoist Temple Route

You can either take a jeepney + motorcycle ride or ride a taxi going to Taoist Temple.
From the map below, the nearest landmark going to the temple is The Cebu Philippines Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly known as Mormons). You'll never missed this building because of its beauty and size.

When riding a jeepney, alight across the perpendicular road on the left side, just right after the church. The road is known as 'Sudlon'. Motorcycles are available for rent to go up the hills. The temple is located inside the subdivision. This will also be the route to be taken when riding taxis or using your private vehicles.

The Cebu Philippines Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Riding a taxi is easier since you don't need to alight somewhere else. The taxi driver will take you directly to Taoist Temple. In our case, we rode a taxi. The downside is, most of the taxis will not use their meters. Instead, they will ask for a fixed amount. However, they will wait for you until you finished your tour. We paid 300PHP from Ayala Centre to Taoist Temple, then Taoist Temple to Cebu Business Park.

Singapore - The Lion City

Marina Bay Sands at night

Singapore - An island country in Southeast Asia that lies off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. This teeny-weeny tropical city-state is also known as the Little Red Dot, the Garden City and the Lion City.

Singapore is one of the world's tiniest nation but it has a thriving economy much stronger than that of many larger countries in Asia. It is undoubtedly one of the world's most expensive cities. This state has a high standard of living, which means that there is relatively little poverty. 

It's powerful economy is clearly apparent on its infrastructures, transportation, and its people. High-rise buildings, multi-storey shopping centers and hotels are everywhere. But amidst the picturesque skylines, Singapore has a variety of parks that features natural tropical environment which also makes it an environment friendly city. 

How to Get to Singapore

Look how small Singapore is.

Before booking your flight or hotel accommodations, make sure that you have an idea on different travel documents (passport, visa, invitation letter, onward or return ticket, etc) that are needed in order to enter Singapore.

Many airlines from all over the world fly to Singapore daily. Check the airline of your choice (some may require connecting flights) and book your flight.

Coming from the Philippines (particularly in Cebu City), we took the evening flight to Singapore via Cebu Pacific Air. Travel time is approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.

*Our round-trip ticket only costs Php7,000 for 2 person already! :) 

Important: After checking in, you need to go through the immigration counter where an immigration officer will ask some questions regarding your travel and will check some of your documents (passport/visa, onward or return ticket, hotel accommodation, identification card - these are the basic things they will require you to show to them). Once they scan your passport and stamped it, be relieved! You're good to go :)

Singapore Arrival

Image from: www.badmintoncentral.com

We arrived at Changi Airport Terminal 2 few minutes before 12 midnight. I was still half awake when I exited the plane but upon entering the airport's arrival area, I was amazed with its beautiful interiors. It's incomparable to any of my country's international airports. It's huge with carpeted floors, various shops, it felt like I'm inside a shopping mall. 

We walked for 10-15 minutes (thanks to travellators) before we arrived at the immigration counter.
Money changer are available 24/7 inside the airport, near the exit gate where people line up for taxis. The exchange rate is quite expensive compared to the money changers in downtown area.

S$10 note. Singapore's currency is Singapore Dollar.

Since its already past midnight, there were no longer MRT operations so the only option we had was to ride a taxi to take us to our accommodation. You don't need to worry. There are plenty of taxis in Singapore  so queuing in line is a breeze. 

Note: Midnight surcharge applies from midnight to 5:59AM. 50% of the meter fare is added. Ouch! 

There are numerous accommodations to choose from in this city. You can opt to say on high-end to mid-range hotels, hostels or you can stay to a relative or friend's house/apartment if you have any.

Accommodations in Singapore is pretty expensive. To cut the cost, we opted to stay on a premium hostel just 5 minutes walk away from Bugis MRT.  The place is called Primero Place and the hostel's name is Plush Pods (visit their website: www.plush-pods.com). To tell you frankly, I have never stayed in a hostel ever in my travelling life. I dislike the idea of having common utilities and sharing a room with some bunch of people. But Plush Pods offers private rooms and it exceeded my expectations. The room is small but all the basic things you need are provided.

Image from: www.plush-pods.com

Getting Around the City

The hostel where we stayed in is in a perfect spot - near Bugis MRT, near the shopping malls and is walking distance to many iconic places in Singapore. Before we began wandering, we bought couple of things to help ease our 3-day journey:

1. EZ Link Card

The EZ-Link card is a contactless smart card used for the payment of public transportation fares and in some retail stores within Singapore. This card is commonly used for paying transportation fees in MRT, LRT and public buses. It lessens the hassle of queuing in line for tickets and paying with coins or verifying the correct fare to pay. You just need to tap the card and go! For more information about the card and where the card is sold, visit their website: http://www.ezlink.com.sg/ez-link-card/


2. Singapore Sim Card

This one is optional. If you want to have internet connection 24/7 then you should buy a sim (Singapore has 3 TelCos) unless you have your roaming data in play. In our case, we needed a prepaid sim to contact a relative living in the city. You need to present your passport if you'll buy one.

3. Singapore Map and MRT Map

You need to have a handy map - be it a printed map or in your portable devices. As first time visitors in Singapore, we needed this tool to guide our way when touring the city by walking. You can somehow skip the MRT Map. All MRT Stations have directories. You'll never be lost.

4. Water and Tissue (why??)

It is always expected that you need to walk around the city. Many of SG's attractions are close to each other so you'll just walk under the heat of the sun. Singapore is a tropical country thus characterized by a hot climate. Drinking water is quite refreshing, as they provide respite from the sun.

Hawkers are very common in Singapore. Hawkers are open-air stalls that sells inexpensive foods. It is cheap and surprisingly clean! 

Hawkers in Maxwell Center

Hawker stalls don't provide tissues so you need to have it in handy. When you put a tissue (clean tissue) on a table, that means that somebody has reserved the table and will be occupying it.

These are just few of the things that you need to know before exploring the city. 

Get a load of more Singapore attractions on my next blog posts.. Hang in there ;)

Santiago Bay Garden Resort, Camotes Island, Cebu

Santiago Bay shores

Camotes Island is located east of Cebu Island, southwest of Leyte Island, and north of Bohol Island. The island is famous of its tourist destinations and sugary beaches. The islands are are collectively called “The Lost Horizon in the South” because of its unspoiled beauty.

When you set foot in Camotes, you will greatly noticed that the island has remained remote and untouched. The place offers a laid back vibe, perfect for relaxation.


How to Get There

Head to North Bound Terminal Station located at Subangdaku, Mandaue City Cebu. Hop on a bus going to Danao City (most of the buses that will pass by Danao City have 'Bogo' written on the signboard.

North Bound Terminal Station, Mandaue City

In our case, we rode the Ceres Liner (non-aircondition). The fare for non-aircondition bus to Danao City is Php40.

Another means of transportation is to ride the V-Hire from SM City Terminal. The V-Hire will drop off at Gaisano Capital Danao City. Fare is Php50. From Gaisano, ride a tri-sikad going to Danao Port (locally known as 'Pantalan') for Php10. Riding V-Hire is not advisable when travelling very early in the morning because the mall is not yet open.

You can also take a jeepney from Cebu City to Danao.

Travel time is approximately 1 hour.

En route to Danao City will pass by the towns of Consolacion, Liloan and Compostela.

The Danao Port is located on the National Highway and it's impossible to miss. A public boat will bring you to Consuelo Port in Camotes. Ticket fare for Jomalia Shipping Lines is Php180 for non-aircondition and Php200 for airconditioned room. Check the schedules of the boat's departure. Make sure that you arrive at least an hour before the estimated time of departure to catch your desired schedule. Expect longer lines on ticket counter during peak seasons.

Jomalia Shipping Lines Schedule

Habal-habal (motorbike) can take you to your resort for Php50 per person. There are plenty of them when you arrive at the Consuelo port.


Places to Stay

There are many resorts in the island like Santiago Bay Garden, Mangodlong Paradise, Mangodlong Rock Resort, Masamayor and many more. But among these resorts, we have chosen Santiago Bay Garden.

Santiago Bay Resort is a 2.5 hectare of lush greenery. The resort is a beautiful landscape of exotic foliage overlooking a wide, white sandy beach and the ocean.

Santiago Bay Resort offers the following rates:

*Rates updated February 2013. May change without prior notice.

Standard Non-Aircon - PhP 1,000 nett good for two (2)
Standard Aircon - PhP 1,500 nett good for two (2)
Oceanview Aircon - PhP 1,700 nett good for two (2)
Deluxe - PhP 2,000 nett good for two (2)
Deluxe Family - PhP 2,600 nett good for three (3)
Bayview -PhP 2,800 nett good for two (2)
Villa Standard - PhP 2,500 nett good for three (3)
Villa Family - PhP 5,000 nett good for five (5)
Bungalow - PhP 3,000 nett good for three (3)
*Extra person: PhP 200/person (for non-aircon); PhP 300/person (for aircon). Maximum 1 extra person allowed per room.

We stayed at an OceanView Room located on a 2nd floor. From the balcony, you can see the infinity pool and the ocean.

View from our room

The resort  has two (2) infinity pools. The other pool is located near the reception area..

Other infinity pool

They also have a mini garden that is beautifully landscaped.

More pictures of the resort:

Crystal clear waters of Camotes 

Ocean View Rooms

Resort's Restaurant

This cute dog is enjoying the water.

Grilled Tuna Belly for lunch. Big servings!

Pito's Sutukil - beside Santiago Bay resort. Good place to eat lunch and snacks.

Pito's Sutukil Menu

Stairs below the resort's restaurant will lead you to the shores.

The resort offers basic amenities. Rooms are not luxurious and limited food selection on their menu. However,  this is a great escape from the noise of the city, perfect for a short trip - weekend getaway!

To go back to Cebu City, ride a motorcycle from the resort to Consuelo Port. Buy your ticket on the ticket booth within the port area. When in Danao, you can cross the street from Danao Port and hail a bus to Cebu City.

You can also ride VHire but you need to go to Gaisano Capital Danao. Ride a tri-sikad to Gaisano Capital Danao. Fare is Php8. The Vhire Terminal is located at the back of Gaisano Capital. The Vhire will drop you off at SM City Cebu. Fare is Php50.

Vhire Terminal - Gaisano Mall of Danao

There are other places to visit and activities to be done in Camotes. I hope to go back here soon ^_^