Genting-Star Cruises consortium wins Sentosa integrated resort project

SINGAPORE: The Genting International-Star Cruises consortium has aced the Sentosa integrated resort project.

The result, just announced by Deputy Prime Minister Professor S Jayakumar at a news conference, came as no surprise as analysts had picked Genting as a frontrunner right from the start.

Its $5.2 billion Resorts World At Sentosa will leverage on international brand names like Universal Studios, which will design 16 new rides specially for the resort.

Besides the Universal Studios theme park, there will also be 3 other water-themed attractions, including a surf pool.

Visitors will be able to observe some 700,000 fish species in one of the world's largest oceanariums.

Genting's proposal also includes six hotels with over 1,800 rooms for both leisure and business travellers.

Earlier, market watchers had picked Genting as a favourite to win due to its Asian experience.

The resort is expected to attract 10 million visitors and generate $15 billion in tourism receipts by 2015.

The Sentosa integrated resort is expected to be ready in 2010.

The judging panel, made up of seven ministers, explained their decision.

"Genting submitted the most compelling proposal overall that best meets our economic and tourism objectives. In particular, the proposal reflects our vision for the Sentosa IR as a large-scale, family resort with its host of world-class family leisure attractions and other strong offerings. The attractions will position Sentosa and draw a significant number of new and repeat visitors," said Prof Jayakumar.

The Deputy Prime Minister added that the Singapore government evaluated the high-quality proposals carefully, before deciding that Genting fulfilled the key criteria such as the family leisure component of 22 attractions for the upcoming Universal Studios Singapore.

This will make it comparable to the theme park in Orlando, Florida.

However, the decision also boiled down to hard-nosed calculations.

"The total project investment is S$5.2b, which includes the land cost of S$605m. We made a projection and the economic contribution of Genting's contribution will be largely similar to the Marina Bay Sands proposal, which is about $2.7b in value-add contribution to our GDP or approximately 0.8 percent contribution to the GDP and generate about 30,000 jobs throughout the economy in the year 2015," said Trade and Industry Minister Lim Hng Kiang.

The panel said they believe the two integrated resorts at Marina and Sentosa will complement each other very well, and allow Singapore to stimulate the growth of its meetings and conventions segment as well as the leisure segment to bring Singapore closer to its Tourism 2015 targets.

In a statement to the media, Kerzner-CapitaLand expressed their disappointment in not being selected for the Sentosa IR, but congratulated Genting International-Star Cruises for winning the bid. - CNA /dt

More details of the winning bid....:yes:

The winning elements in Genting's Resorts World at Sentosa
Posted: 08 December 2006 1945 hrs

The bid by Infinity@The Bay Pte Ltd, a Joint Venture Company between Genting International & Star Cruises (“Genting”) to develop the Integrated Resort (IR) on Sentosa, has been described an excellent IR development that will strengthen Singapore’s overall appeal to visitors, positioning Sentosa and Singapore firmly as a top-of-mind, fun and exciting family destination.

In a news release, the Singapore Tourism Board said that the bids received from Genting, Kerzner CapitaLand Integrated Resorts Pte Ltd and Eighth Wonder Pte Ltd underwent rigorous evaluation of both the qualitative and quantitative factors, and Genting had submitted the best proposal overall.

The Resorts World at Sentosa design is a collection of resorts within a resort so visitors can have a multi-resort experience.

The anchor family leisure attractions include The Universal Studios Singapore Theme Park, The Quest Marine Life Park, The Equarius Water Park, The Maritime Xperiential Museum, and other entertainment offerings located along FestiveWalk.

Universal Studios will have its largest theme park in Asia at Resorts World at Sentosa offering 22 attractions within seven themed worlds, of which 16 will be specially designed for Singapore.
It will be developed at the east side of the IR site, using the theme “Ride the movies” and the attractions will be comparable to those found in Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure.

There will be seven themed worlds within Universal Studios Singapore namely: Waterworld, Lost World, Egypt, Super Hero City, Back Lot-The Big Apple, Hollywood Boulevard and Cartoon Studios.

Key highlights include the all-new “Journey to Madagascar” attraction and the Dreamworks Digital Animation Studios which will showcase the cutting edge of movie-making and real-time animation.

Resorts World at Sentosa will also offer other family entertainment experiences such as Quest Marine Life Park an oceanarium spanning 8 hectares with the largest single marine tank in the world, a 6.5 million gallon Whale Shark Lagoon, and interactive dolphin habitat, operated by the world-renowned Dolphin Quest.

Other attractions include the 1.3 hectares Equarius Water Park which is a water theme park custom-designed to integrate with the hillside terrain of Sentosa and a Maritime Xperiential Museum set at the waterfront.

This is expected to be the world’s first maritime silk route museum, dedicated to the subject of the maritime silk route between East Asia and the Middle East and will house the world’s first historical research centre dedicated to the subject. There will also be exhibits such as a full-scale glass replica of an ancient trading ship, a 360-degrees multimedia motion shipwreck theatre as well as live performances by acrobats on-board the ‘Bao Chuan” (Zheng He boat).

There will also be entertainment along the retail, dining and entertainment precinct of FestiveWalk, three public amphitheatres: The ShowPlace, an open-air 2,150 seat public amphitheatre; The Bull Ring, a 6,300 seating capacity amphitheatre; and Imagineering, a 1,714 seating capacity theatre which provides a magical dreamlike show with water, light and visual effects.

Visitors will also be able to catch the Crane Ballet, a showcase of multi-media moving art with choreographed animatronic crane dances nightly at the Festivewalk, with colourful streams of light, water and fire, all in sync with music and enhanced with video images on giant LCD screens.

Resorts World at Sentosa will also feature a resident show – ‘Le Vie’ (Life)which is put together by members from the same creative team behind the Cirque du Soleil blockbusters such as ‘KA’ and ‘O’ in Las Vegas.

There will be a total of six hotels offering 1,830 rooms including a first-in-the-world hotel - Hotel Michael - designed by award-winning architect, Michael Graves.

In addition, there is the ESPA Spa centre, offering programmes for wellness and self-improvement as well as 42 private ESPA Villas.

Visitors will also be able to be entertained at signature gourmet restaurants with Masterchefs such as Alain Fabregues, Alan Wong, Scott Webster, Marlon Abele-MARC Group, Gary Kunz, Harlan Goldstein, Susur Lee, Luke Mangan and Don Pintabona.

STB said the overall composition of buildings, form and massing responds well to the existing fabric of Sentosa.

The architecture is human scale with a village-like festive ambience. The site is well laid out, providing visitors with a clear visual orientation to key attractions and facilities.

What made the Resort devlopment attractive was the responsiveness to the tropical climate with extensive use of water, landscaping and materials such as stone and wood.

Most of the major attractions are designed with canopies, covered walkways and landscaped features to enhance visitors' experience in all-weather condition and there's been attractive night lighting to highlight the architectural features of the individual buildings and character of different zones.

There will be meeting facilities to host approximately 12,000 delegates in 3 key venues, namely; 1,600 theatre-style seating Le Vie Showroom / Plenary Hall , a 7,300 theatre-style seating Ballroom and 22 Meeting Rooms capable of hosting more than 3000 people.

In addition, there are seven indoor venues as well as 10 outdoor incentive venues.

There will also be flagship concept retail stores including new retail brands not currently in Singapore such as Bershka, Stradavarius, Cortefiel, Promod, as well as The Universal Store and Hamleys toy store. cna/sf

Ok, it seems Genting wins after all. Hope all these will go well...

hoorayyy!! :banana: :banana: :banana: finally Genting win!! :) :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

Integrated resorts will boost and fundamentally change Singapore's economy
By Johnson Choo, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 08 December 2006 2020 hrs
SINGAPORE: Malaysia's Genting International says it is ecstatic that the Singapore government has accepted its proposal for the Sentosa Integrated resort which will be called Resorts World at Sentosa.

The casino, cruise and entertainment park operator likened its proposal as a "must see, must visit" family resort.

Analysts say there is much for Singapore to cheer as well.

Besides getting a Universal Studios theme park at its doorstep, the new integrated resort, together with the Marina Bay Sands, will boost Singapore's economy and fundamentally change its tourism industry.

After a tight race, the Sentosa project was finally awarded to Infinity@The Bay - the joint venture company of Genting International and Star Cruises.

The win is expected to have a positive impact on Star Cruises' cruise centre operations which is located just across the water from the Sentosa site at HarbourFront.

With a total of four theme parks and six hotels planned, Resorts World at Sentosa is expected to create some 10,000 new jobs.

Analysts believe the integrated resorts will be able to successfully attract more tourist arrivals, not only from the region but also from the rest of the world.

Song Seng Wun, Regional Economist at CIMB-GK Research, says: "Together with the development in Sentosa in terms of more luxury homes attracting a whole new level of visitors or residents here, perhaps it will create higher value-added hospitality-related spin-offs for the economy."

As part of its Tourism 2015 targets, the Singapore government hopes to draw in 10 million visitors in 2015 and generate an estimated S$15 billion in tourist receipts.

"We may not get the 25 million visitors that Hong Kong gets, but if the 10 or 15 million visitors we get spend more per head, that would have much more significant impact on the services sector, hospitality-related sector than any of the single-event before that. To me, the award of IR probably marked the potential of reshaping the tourism sector in Singapore in the years to come," says Mr Song.

Economists predict the Singapore economy could grow between 6.5 to 7.5 percent when the resorts are operational from 2009.

The construction sector is also expected to benefit by growing 10 to 15 percent on year from now to 2009. - CNA/so

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/3933/gentingstarcruisesunivelf5.jpg

There are more new renderings in channelnewsasia......do post them....:yes:

New rendering of Resort World in Channelnewsasia...:yes:

1. Retail outlets
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/38.jpg

2. Casino
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/37.jpg

3. Food & Beverages Area
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/36.jpg

4. Food & Beverages Area
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/35.jpg

5. Maritime Museum Interior
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/34.jpg

6. Entertainment Area
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/33.jpg

7. ESPA Villa
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/32.jpg

8. ESPA Villa
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/31.jpg

9. Crane Ballet
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/22.jpg

10. The Show Place
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/gallery/images/ir-genting/21.jpg

It will be very enchanting....although the buildings are not large or unusual, collectively they do give you a nice warm fun feeling....as you would expect from a tropical island resort....

the night renderings shown on TV also looked quite cozy.....:cool:

It will be very enchanting....although the buildings are not large or unusual, collectively they do give you a nice warm fun feeling....as you would expect from a tropical island resort....

the night renderings shown on TV also looked quite cozy.....:cool:

It has a very relaxing, resort feel to it.....hmm...a nice place to chill out and enjoy perhaps...:yes:

urrgh...cant wait till 2009 and 2010! :happy:

urrgh...cant wait till 2009 and 2010! :happy:

Yeah I supposed a tourism boom is on the way.....:yes:

good news for Genting and Singaporean!

Dec 9, 2006
Genting wins Sentosa IR bid

TRUMP CARDS:
Family-oriented theme with Universal Studios
Oceanarium, maritime museum, water park
Promise of 30,000 jobs, $2.7b boost to economy

By Krist Boo


GENTING International and partner Star Cruises have sailed smoothly to the finishing line, taking home the Sentosa Integrated Resort as its prize.

The consortium's family-oriented proposal, especially the much-touted Universal Studios theme park, was what powered it to victory, leaving in its wake rivals Kerzner-Capitaland and Eighth Wonder.

While famed architect Frank Gehry's glass sculpture design for the Kerzner team captured the imagination of the public, it was not enough to convince the judges.

Neither was Eighth Wonder's line-up of stars, such as soccer legend Pele, celebrity chef Alain Ducasse and fashion designer Vera Wang.

Deputy Prime Minister S. Jayakumar, announcing the winner with five other ministers yesterday, said Genting's Resorts World at Sentosa was 'the most compelling proposal overall that best meets our economic and tourism objectives'.

The Government did the maths and found Genting's $5.2 billion proposal would generate 30,000 jobs, and add $2.7 billion, or 0.8 per cent, to the economy a year - on par with the projections for Marina Bay Sands.

The bonus: Genting has tied in Universal Studios to an exclusive deal, in which the theme park has agreed not to open in any other South-east Asian country for the next 30 years.

The judges also liked the other attractions: The world's largest oceanarium, a water-theme park, and a maritime museum.

The contest for Sentosa differed from that for Marina Bay. More emphasis was placed on the bidders' ability to woo family holidaymakers, not business visitors.

But while Sands and Genting are likely to vie with each other to attract highrollers to their casinos, Trade and Industry Minister Lim Hng Kiang sees the pair as complementary in Singapore's larger tourism game plan to double visitor numbers to 17 million by 2015.

Genting's win ends a two-year journey which has seen Cabinet and public opinion split over Singapore's decision to overturn a 40-year ban on casinos in order to win more tourism dollars.

While Sands was the dark horse at Marina Bay, Genting's win drew hardly a gasp.

It is the only contender with experience in Asia, with its Genting Highlands resort and Asia's largest cruise company Star Cruises.

While some architects said Michael Graves' architecture was outclassed by Frank Gehry's, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan said it was well laid out and true to the resort theme with its use of wood and stone.

Sentosa Leisure Group chief executive Darrell Metgzer, who will be Genting's new landlord, was especially pleased with its commitment to keep 70 per cent of its resort 'green', a tacit standard the island manager applies to Sentosa.

Mr Metgzer said Genting's design went well with the Harbourfront precinct.

With Genting's investment, the precinct, consisting of VivoCity, Mount Faber and St James Power Station, will now be a new $12 billion tourism destination.

Genting executives were 'ecstatic' at the win. Chairman Lim Kok Thay said it was confident of attracting 15 million visitors to its resort by 2015.

Genting's quest for the prize was fraught with criticism that it was a three-star operator and its Universal park was outdated. But minister Mr Lim said the Genting proposal included 'premium, quality attractions', many helmed by 'very strong partners'.

He pointed out that Universal was bringing in 16 new rides to Singapore. It has the chance to 'refresh' itself whenever there is a new blockbuster. Besides, tourists in Singapore's key markets - China, India and Indonesia - do not see it that way. 'The fact that Universal is a tried and tested brand does not mean it's stale.'

Asked if Singapore and Malaysia bilateral relations played a role in Genting's win, Professor Jayakumar said no, but added that with Genting's victory, 'this will bolster the strong economic ties between the two countries.'

krist@sph.com.sg
Copyright © 2006 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.

Rendering on Festive Walk on Lianhe Zaobao (9 Dec 2006)
http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/6637/dscf1101so2.jpg

Headlines on Lianhe Zaobao (9 Dec 2006)
http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/9805/dscf1102zr9.jpg

Headline on Straits Times (9 Dec 2006)
http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/1269/dscf1103vz7.jpg

Congrats to Genting consortium !!! :)

YAY!!!

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/3933/gentingstarcruisesunivelf5.jpg

I hate the buildings with the roundish roofs. :ohno:

So do I :(
I preferred the other bids. Singapore deserves only the best :) Although I'm sure this will turn out nicely as well

the exterior design very2 look like sunway city.

can't wait to see it..

you gotta love the island, i enjoyed it so much even if i was only there for like 4 hours..

The roller coaster at the Universal Studio Singapore...:yes:
http://www.asiaone.com.sg/sentosaIR/gallery/pics/universal2.jpg

OMG!!! is that for real?

OMG!!! is that for real?

Think so since it's one of the rendering of the upcoming Universal Studio Singapore......:yes:

OMG!!! is that for real?

It was in the scale model. Plus it was mentioned in the press releases for a ''The Hulk'' rollercoaster.

Resorts World at Sentosa to offer S$200m worth of businesses for SMEs
By Wong Siew Ying, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 11 December 2006 1713 hrs

SINGAPORE : Resorts World at Sentosa is expected to give Singapore small and medium-sized companies a big lift.

In its first news conference since winning the bid to build Singapore's second integrated resort last Friday, the Genting International-Star Cruises consortium said up to S$200 million (US$120 million) worth of goods and services will be procured from local companies each year.

The $5.2 billion resort is poised to give Singapore's tourism sector a boost.

But that's not all.

Genting-Star Cruises wants to give Singapore companies a roll of the dice as well, by awarding between $100 million and $200 million worth of projects to them every year, in areas such as hotel supplies, security, laundry and landscaping services.

"We have roped in financial institutions to provide financing support to SMEs interested to provide goods and services to the resort. The financing support will help the SMEs to improve their cashflow, enhance their ability to invest in resources and equipment, and allow them to have access to opportunities presented at the resort," says Tan Hee Teck, Chief Financial Officer of Genting International.

The resort aims to attract 15 million visitors during its first year of operation in 2010 and hopes to breakeven in seven years.

The Genting-Star Cruises group is also planning to woo more tourists from the region with special cruise packages.

"If you look at Florida or Disney, as an example, Disney has a very popular package, what they call land and cruise (where you'll have) four days of cruise and four days at Magic Kingdom. We'll be packaging passengers from India where we have home ported ships. And in North Asia, we're primarily targeting the Chinese market," says Lim Kok Thay, chairman of Genting International-Star Cruises.

Genting will also set aside $30 million a year to fund marine biology programmes to promote research and education.

These will include field trips for students, internship programmes and placement of over 20 post-graduate students from Singapore in sponsored research fellowship overseas.

Genting says it hopes to work with Marina Bay Sands to provide complimentary offerings. For example, Resorts World at Sentosa will not focus too much on the convention and exhibition component but geared towards providing incentive packages at its attractions like Universal Studios and the Maritime Xperential Museum.

Over the next three months, Genting will be hiring engineers and contractors to work on the project.

It expects the three-year construction period to create 22,000 jobs and generate nearly $4 billion of value-add to the Singapore economy. - CNA /ls

This Rollercoaster would be a clone of an other one which already exist in Florida, in an other "Universal Studio" theme park called "Island of Adventure".

You will find further information on this link.

http://www.rcdb.com/id557.htm

Congratulation Singapore, it seems to be a great project !

The roller coaster at the Universal Studio Singapore...:yes:
http://www.asiaone.com.sg/sentosaIR/gallery/pics/universal2.jpg

That IS the one at florida!
http://p2.rcdb.com/picmax/universal-studios-islands-of-adventure/incredible-hulk2.jpg

Unique projects and great pictures, thanks for sharing. :)

Dec 12, 2006
Genting to keep ticket prices at theme park competitive

By Marcel Lee Pereira

FRESH from winning the Sentosa integrated resort bid, Genting International yesterday took pains to address concerns that its attractions could be too expensive.

Tickets to the resort's Universal Studios theme park will be priced 'much lower' than the ones in the United States, Genting chairman Lim Kok Thay said yesterday.

It is too early to specify rates, but Genting will look at similar attractions around the world and set competitive prices.

Over the weekend, Singaporeans were reported in the media as being concerned that the admission charges at Universal Studios Sentosa could be too high.

At the Universal Studios in Hollywood, prices start from about US$50 (S$77) per adult.

Visitors to Sentosa, who will pay less, will get their money's worth.

There will be plenty of free shows: from the Crane Ballet, a showcase of choreographed 'dancing' construction cranes, to performances with water, light and visual effects at the 1,700-seat Imagineering theatre.

Apart from the rides, visitors can also visit 'edutainment' centres - including the Quest Marine Life Park, an 8ha oceanarium, and the Maritime Xperiential Museum, which will focus on Asia's seafaring history.

Genting will put in $20 million to $30 million a year to fund these attractions, and make the theme park a centre for research and learning in areas such as computer animation, marine biology and genomics.

The programmes include:

DreamWorks Digital Animation Studio: The 1,400sqm facility will give visitors a peek into how advanced computer animation technology is used in movies today.

Quest Medical and Marine Science Centre: It will focus on marine science and ecological education.

Marine biology, veterinary science, engineering and hospitality students will be offered internships and about 20 postgraduate students will be placed in a research fellowship programme with prominent marine biologists. Primary and secondary school students will also be offered lessons and field trips.

Quest Marine Life Park: Apart from housing the medical and marine science centre, it will provide logistics support and funds for a rescue centre and emergency response team for wild dolphins and other marine animals found stranded, sick or injured in the region.

Maritime Xperiental Museum: Leading scientist J. Craig Venter, who helped decode the human genome, will set up the Marine Environmental Genomics Research and Learning Centre here. Young children will get to discover bioscience and genomics hands-on.

Mr Lim is raring to go, and hopes to begin construction on the 49ha Resorts World at Sentosa as soon as possible.

He expects it to open in phases, with all areas welcoming visitors by 2010.

Copyright © 2006 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved

Business Times - 12 Dec 2006

Sentosa IR will be top tourism earner: Genting

It expects resort to account for half of S'pore's $30b tourism revenue target by 2015

By ARTHUR SIM

(SINGAPORE) Resorts World at Sentosa will be Singapore's single biggest tourism earner, raking in $15 billion by 2015, developer Genting International's chairman Lim Kok Thay said yesterday.

Giving his take on why Genting and sister company Star Cruises won the Sentosa integrated resort (IR) project, Mr Lim said Resorts World alone will account for half of the $30 billion tourism revenue target set by the Singapore Tourism Board by 2015.

Even before the first attraction opens, Resorts World will add about $3.9 billion of value to Singapore's economy during the three-year construction phase from 2007 to 2009, he said. Also, more than 22,000 jobs are expected to be created during this phase.

Although Mr Lim would not say when construction will start, he indicated Genting is keen to 'hit the ground running' - which means ground-breaking could happen as early as this month.

Speaking at Genting/Star Cruises's first news conference since they were announced as winners of the Sentosa IR tender on Friday, Mr Lim also said yesterday the partners will rope in financial institutions to provide lending support to local SMEs that want to provide goods and services to Resorts World - and is even prepared to act as guarantor.

'We believe the resort presents an excellent market opportunity for many local SMEs in areas such as sanitation, security, and maintenance,' he said. 'We expect to procure between $100 million to $200 million in goods and services from SMEs each year. This initiative is our way of supporting local SMEs and nurturing entrepreneurship.'

Genting/Star have already approached 'a couple of local banks' as well as US-based GE (General Electric), which owns a majority stake in Resorts World's key attraction - Universal Studios theme parks.

Genting/Star itself will employ some 10,000 people for theme park, resort entertainment and gaming operations. And 75 per cent of these jobs will go to Singaporeans. Mr Lim said recruitment is expected to take place six months before the target opening date in 2010.

Resorts World will give back to the community in other ways too.

Quest Marine Life Park, an attraction focusing on marine science and ecological education, will offer annual funding of between $20 million and $30 million for research and environmental programmes, which include sponsoring research fellowships.

Ticket pricing for attractions has not been confirmed yet.

Mr Lim said tickets for Universal Studios in the US cost about $80, but the partners are looking at cheaper prices here.

The Genting group is also looking at how it will leverage on its existing network to bring tourists to Singapore. Mr Lim said it will create holiday packages for Indian and Chinese tourists that will include land and sea travel, with the possibility of even more economic spin-offs for Singapore. 'If there is enough demand for a new cruise terminal, Star Cruises will take a serious look,' he said.

Copyright © 2005 Singapore Press Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sands warms to Genting overture

16 Dec 06

It says it is ready to work with Genting to promote IRs in face of strong competition worldwide

(SINGAPORE) Las Vegas Sands says it looks forward to working with Genting International to promote Singapore's upcoming integrated resorts (IRs), after Genting International chairman Lim Kok Thay made the first overture earlier this week. And work together they will have to.

'We look forward to working with Genting International to enhance Singapore's tourism landscape and transform it into a vibrant city filled with buzz, excitement and something for everyone,' Las Vegas Sands Corp president and chief operating officer Bill Weidner told BT.

And that's just as well. Because together, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World at Sentosa will be up against formidable competition worldwide.

As gaming analyst Jonathan Galaviz notes: 'The convergence of the hotel lodging, casino gaming and entertainment industries in global tourism markets is accelerating at a very fast pace and integrated resorts provide the delivery mechanism to consumers.'

Two of the newest and biggest will be the US$3 billion The Venetian Macao on Macau's Cotai Strip by Las Vegas Sands, and the US$7 billion Project CityCenter by MGM Mirage in Las Vegas.

Project CityCenter will have 4,800 hotel rooms, casino, convention centre facilities, retail/entertainment/F&B and 1,640 luxury condominiums.

The Venetian Macao - considerably closer to Singapore and much more of a rival for regional dollars - is expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of 2007. It will be a very strong contender for gaming, tourism and Mice (meetings, incentive, conventions and exhibitions) business, with an estimated 1.2 million square feet of Mice space, casinos, 6,300 hotel rooms and one million sq ft of retail space.

By comparison, Marina Bay Sands - also owned by Las Vegas Sands - will have 1.2 million sq ft, while Resorts World at Sentosa will have significantly less space for crowds of up to 12,000 people.

Analysts says Singapore's competition is likely to come from Macau, as Singapore will not be able to take a meaningful bite out of the Las Vegas Mice and gaming business. 'The Mice industries in Las Vegas and Singapore are somewhat isolated from each other, mainly due to geographic reasons, and therefore do not impact each other substantively,' says Mr Galaviz.

Macau, on the other hand, is seeking to grow both gaming revenue and Mice business by chasing the same market the Singapore Tourism Board has identified for Singapore - namely, Asia.

How real is the threat to Singapore's plans? This year Macau's gaming revenue will exceed that of Las Vegas.

Billy Ng, a gaming analyst with JPMorgan Asia-Pacific, says gaming revenue from the Vegas strip was US$6 billion last year and is set for growth of about 5 per cent this year, taking it to US$6.3 billion. Macau, on the other hand, saw gaming revenue hit US$5.6 billion last year and will see growth of about 20 per cent this year, Mr Ng estimates. And this means Macau will have revenue of US$6.7 billion for 2006.

Las Vegas Sands chairman Sheldon Adelson is reported to have said recently that he expects gaming revenue from Sands' Macau operations to hit between $11 billion and $15 billion by the end of the decade.

Right now, about 90 per cent of Macau's turnover comes from gaming revenue, but five years from now Mr Ng expects non-gaming takings to climb to about 30 per cent. Already, The Venetian Macao has lined up 26 Mice events for its first year of operation.

If the Mice and leisure industries keep growing at the rate now, the IRs in Macau, Singapore and Las Vegas will all be able to enjoy a sufficient slice of the business. 'I think basically, the demand is strong enough to support all three locations,' Mr Ng says. 'There is certainly some overlapping (when it comes to Singapore's and Macau's target markets) but I think the market is big enough.'

Still, there is a general sense among analysts that Singapore's IRs will draw most of their visitors from South Asian and South-east Asian markets, leaving North Asia - including the huge China market that Singapore covets - to Macau. Asked how much competition the Singapore IRs will pose to the gaming, leisure and Mice businesses in Las Vegas and Macau, Morgan Stanley analyst Rob Hart answers: 'Virtually none. Macau will target Greater China Mice, Singapore Asean, and Vegas the US.'

While Singapore should get some tourists from China, Macau has the advantage of location, analysts reckon. 'It will be critical for the Sentosa IR to focus on attracting the new wealthy middle-class families from India as well, as these are very promising new leisure tourists in Asia,' says Mr Galaviz.

The two IRs here should be unique for at least the first two or three years of operation, but it will be necessary for both to make the reinvestments necessary to stay fresh, compelling, and unique to the greater Asian tourism base, he believes. 'It's important to note that the IRs are just one aspect of a holistic tourism strategy for Singapore over the coming years.'

http://business-times.asiaone.com/mnt/media/image/launched/2006-12-16/BT_5328082_16_12_2006.jpg

Wow kewl! all of them looks so promising :) let's see how they "eat" up the pie ^^

But personally, i think those of Singapore (Marina and Sentosa IR) will be able to overcome Macau Venetian as far as the target market concern..

We shall see...:yes:

If the words "Resorts World at Sentosa" are not there. one look at it. I would have thought it was some resort in Malaysia. an indirect marketing for Malaysia's tourism?

great project!

If the words "Resorts World at Sentosa" are not there. one look at it. I would have thought it was some resort in Malaysia. an indirect marketing for Malaysia's tourism?

I beg to differ. Thought i'm an avid supporter of 8th wonder, i still find Genting's proposal more resort-like as a whole. The architecture resembles those of Naboo in Star Wars. Come on give them a chance to showcase their ability. As one had mentioned earlier, perhaps they didn't upgrade their flagship resort so as to fund this mega project. The resorts world doesn't seem so o biang though there can be room for improvement. Btw, wad does it got to do wif malaysian's tourism? Does it also mean u won't visit this IR for your entire life. I doubt so. Nevertheless, i hope i can see a caldera in the nearby southern islands. :)

Excellent project and my best wish to Singapore. As a HK citizen I have to praise what the Singapore Gov't intents and commits for its sustainable development; The project itself, together with Sands Casino Resorts, the development od Marina Bay Area as well as the continuous enhancement on legal and business environment shall make Singapore becomes strong in terms of the economic development in next decade.

What HK happened is entirely different, we don't have a good leader, what D Tsang done is just going to passively maintain his position or his image in Beijing's eyes. We have excellent chance like two virgin lands of Kai Tak and West Kowloon areas, but nothing happen yet!

I beg to differ. Thought i'm an avid supporter of 8th wonder, i still find Genting's proposal more resort-like as a whole. The architecture resembles those of Naboo in Star Wars. Come on give them a chance to showcase their ability. As one had mentioned earlier, perhaps they didn't upgrade their flagship resort so as to fund this mega project. The resorts world doesn't seem so o biang though there can be room for improvement. Btw, wad does it got to do wif malaysian's tourism? Does it also mean u won't visit this IR for your entire life. I doubt so. Nevertheless, i hope i can see a caldera in the nearby southern islands. :)

i guess you misunderstood my statement. what i meant was. in my opinion, it seems to me genting's bid looks Malaysian-like with all the domes and similar roof shapes. and that just brought me an assumption of it being an icon representing Malaysia in foreign countries after the success of Malaysia's tourism advertisement "Malaysia - truly Asia". i'm not criticising and underlooking genting's IR architecture. im just relenting out my disappointment in not having kerzner's or 8th wonder's ideas in SG, hopefully they can be successful in future developments in southern islands, marina bay etc.:)

This story was printed from TODAYonline

Genting joint venture to borrow $3.4 billion for Sentosa IR

Wednesday • December 20, 2006

Star Cruises' joint venture with Genting International will borrow $3.38 billion for its integrated resort on Sentosa.

Genting International and sister company Star Cruises, which are both units of Malaysian casino operator Genting, said earlier this month that they would spend $5.2 billion to build Resorts World on a 49-hectare site at Sentosa, after winning the bid for the project.

"The maximum funding commitment of the parties toward the development cost will not exceed $1.82 billion," said Star Cruises in yesterday's statement. The company said the rest of the investment would be funded by debt financing from a third-party lender.

Star Cruises owns 25-per-cent in the venture. Genting owns the remaining stake.

Casino operators are getting loans to expand in Asia, where industry growth is outpacing the rest of the world. Asia's annual gaming revenue will double to US$23 billion ($35.5 billion) by 2010, up from US$11.9 billion last year, according to a June report by PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Last week, Standard & Poor's said it may cut its rating on Star Cruises' bonds as the operator plans to sell more securities. It rates the Star Cruises' debt BB-, three levels below investment grade. — Agencies

Copyright MediaCorp Press Ltd. All rights reserved.

New Sentosa road bridge part of Genting's plan for IR

2 Mar 07

Consortium also announces $400m contract to prepare site for construction

A NEW three-lane bridge will link Sentosa to the mainland to ensure smooth traffic to and from the island's integrated resort in 2010.
The new road - which will run parallel to the existing causeway - and a $400 million contract to start prepping the resort site for construction, were announced by Resorts World at Sentosa (RWS) yesterday, when it took over the site for the $5.2 billion resort.

RWS, which comprises Malaysia's Genting International and Star Cruises, signed an agreement with Sentosa Development Corporation yesterday for work to begin.

The consortium said it has paid up the $605 million for the 49ha site, and will foot the bill for the bridge, which will cost between $60 million and $80 million.

Mr Tan Hee Teck, RWS' newly appointed chief executive officer, said the bridge was factored into the resort's blueprint in anticipation of the 'manifold increase' in traffic when the resort opens.

By 2015, some 10 million tourists are expected; RWS is now working with the authorities to come up with a more accurate picture of traffic needs through studies and surveys.

Construction of the resort itself will begin with excavation for an underground carpark, which needs to be built before the rest of the resort is built on top of it, said Mr Tan.

Contracts for site surveys have already been awarded, he added.

Meanwhile, RWS has begun its marketing blitz by taking part in local and overseas events such as the recent Asean Tourism Forum.

A principal leadership team has been hired, with the executives coming on board this month and next.

Among them is Singapore Press Holdings' Mr Michael Chin, who will soon leave his position as executive vice-president of the company's corporate development division and Times Properties to head RWS' project management.

Mr Chin, who joined SPH in 1991, played a major role in the successful development of The Paragon and the Sky@Eleven condominium project.

More than 150 jobs will be created in the next six months, mostly in project management, marketing and corporate services.

The net will be cast as far as the United States, where top creative talent for the movie and show-themed attractions will be hired.

Recruitment alerts will be posted on the RWS website at www.resortsworldatsentosa.com, set to debut next week.

Looming in the background amid this buzz is the deal between Star Cruises and Macau gaming tycoon Stanley Ho, which raised considerable alarm here because of Mr Ho's alleged - but unproven - links with Macau's triads.

Neither RWS' CEO Mr Tan nor Genting International managing director Justin Tan would be drawn into discussing this yesterday.

The deal - which could jeopardise RWS' chances of securing its casino licence - would give Mr Ho and a group of investors a stake of up to 6.99 per cent in the cruise firm.

In return, Star Cruises would offer Mr Ho's Sociedad de Jorgos de Macau the franchise to run the casino in a resort it is developing in Macau.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said on Tuesday that members of the Genting-Star Cruises consortium will have to be screened, and the casino licence is not yet in the bag.

The consortium said it is determined to meet the probity requirements and will apply for the licence when at least half the resort's gross floor area has been completed and half of its development investment spent.

Singapore tourism chief Lim Neo Chian said issues remain to be ironed out between RWS and the MHA, but the project is 'still very much on track'.


By Marcel Lee Pereira

The resorts website offically came online today.

http://www.resortsworldatsentosa.com/

singapore is so stunning marina bay will be very exiting

..
Resorts world development update

Universal Studio:-
http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/6678/dscf1225me5.jpg


http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/1600/dscf1221dm1.jpg

ET joins Sentosa IR fun
By Sheralyn Tay, TODAY | Posted: 07 November 2007 1448 hrs

SINGAPORE: Resorts World at Sentosa (RWS) has upped its budget from S$5.2 billion to S$5.75 billion - and not just in view of the rising construction costs.

The developer is bumping up its theme park offerings, with two new rides - one a rollercoaster, the other based on the hit movie ET - for its Universal Studios Theme Park. This brings the total number of rides to 24.

There will be four more free multimedia shows, on top of the three already announced such as a laser-and-water show designed by Emmy award winner Jeremy Railton.

These extras, as well as improvements to hotels and infrastructure, will take up half of the S$550 million cost revision. The other half will go to cover the increased construction costs. On top of the S$5.75-billion budget is another S$250 million allotted for contingencies.

A ban by Indonesia on sand exports early this year, coupled with a buoyant property sector, has prompted the Government to release more sand from the national stockpile and diversify its sources.

About two months ago, Las Vegas Sands - which is developing the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort slated to open in 2009 - announced that it was "struggling" to stick to its budget and anticipated up to a 40-per-cent spike in its US$3.6-billion (S$5.5 billion) projection.

Speaking via teleconference from Hong Kong on Tuesday, RWS chief executive Tan Hee Teck said: "With scarce resources, the cost escalation has been higher than anticipated."

Still, according to Mr Michael Chin, senior director of projects, RWS has managed to "lock in" the prices of concrete and structural steel at "very competitive prices". RWS and China's Jingye Construction Engineering Contract Company signed a S$60-million contract in September for 23,000 tonnes of structural steel for work on the resort.

But while such costs have been manageable, Mr Chin noted, labour costs and margins of contractors have risen significantly. Still, Mr Justin Tan, managing director of Genting International, does not anticipate any further changes to the budget or the 2010 date for the soft launch.

"We are on track and in negotiation with contractors who have not indicated any delays to date," he said.

Mr Tan also said he was "very confident" about the growing Asian economy. With a growing middle-income market in China and India, RWS in Singapore will draw them over by being "a very unique and differentiated destination".

Three lots will be left vacant within the theme park to allow for later expansions and additions, he added.

Work on Universal Studios Singapore began last month and another S$1 billion worth of building contracts will be awarded by early next year.

Meanwhile, Genting International has posted a third-quarter loss because of an "impairment" charge, Mr Tan said. The company lost S$393.4 million, or 5.66 cents a share, in the quarter ended 30 Sep, compared with a profit of S$86.9 million, or 1.39 cents, a year earlier, the company said in a statement to the Singapore Exchange.

It expects a full-year loss including the charge, said Mr Tan. - TODAY/ym

Hard Rock Hotel to open at Resorts World Sentosa

8 April 08

HARD Rock Hotel will be opening its doors to guests at Resorts World at Sentosa (RWS), once Singapore's first integrated resort is ready in early 2010.
The world-renowned hotel chain, famous for its commemoration of over 40 years of 'Rock n Roll', is one of six hotels that will be operating at Resorts World.

Hard Rock Hotel, costing more than $340 million to construct, is part of the $6 billion resort development.

The 360-room hotel will feature modern conference facilities and one of Asia's largest column-free ballrooms that hold over 7,000 guests, for concerts, seminars, performances as well as banquets.

Construction on the hotel is expected to kick-off soon, with local contractors Low Keng Huat (Singapore) Limited tasked with the project - the latest in a string of construction contracts totalling more than S$1 billion that have been awarded for the development of RWS.

The Resort, which will also boast a Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest oceanarium and the region's first integrated destination spa, expects to receive some 15 million visitors in its first year.

this looks great!

Resorts World awards $705m Universal Studios contract to Chinese firm

7 July 08

By Jessica Cheam
WORKS are underway at Singapore's highly-anticipated Universal Studios, which is expected to open its doors to visitors come 2010.

Resorts World at Sentosa (RWS) announced on Monday that a $705 million contract for infrastructural work for Universal Studios has been awarded to China Jingye Engineering.

The firm is a unit of one of China's biggest construction conglomerates, the China Metallurgical Corporate Group.

It will be responsible for general building works such as structural buildings, facades, walkways and an amphitheatre, said RWS.

The latest deal follows an earlier one in September last year, when China Jingye clinched a $60 million contract to supply 23,000 tonnes of structural steel to the $6 billion resort development.

An RWS spokesperson said that RWS held a tender exercise and 'chose the most suitable candidate based on suitability to deliver.'

RWS's executive vice president of projects Michael Chin said in a statement that China construction companies have a good track record, building a 'collection of stunning projects' rising in China the last few years.

The firm has the 'experience, a track record for quality and a reputation for completing projects on time,' said Mr Chin.

China Jingye, which has been established in Singapore for the last 12 years, was previously involved in building MRT stations and HDB projects in Singapore.

When it opens, Universal Studios Singapore will feature 24 rides and attractions, 18 of which are unique to Singapore.

RWS said they were 'on track for a soft opening in early 2010.'

It has awarded a total of $2.7 billion worth of building contracts to date.

WOW !!!!!..........JUST STUNNING!!!!

Taken on 13 Jul 08 [ taken by ayanami

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/7892/img0089smallst3.jpg[/QUOTE]

Mid August updates

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3142/2791101567_2428d6e505_o.jpg

taken by r@ptor

http://www.jochenhertweck.com/upload/sin_resort1.JPG

Pictures by thethemeparkguy

October 2nd and 3rd:

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/uss1-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/universalsingaporemodel-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/uss5-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/uss2-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/uss21-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/uss20-big.jpg

Photos (C) by:
http://www.thethemeparkguy.com

Oohh....Things here are getting done so quickly. Very good.

Coming: Transformers

21 Oct 08

Sentosa IR will be the first in the world to get the new ride

http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20081021/ST1028518101_01_0001.jpg

UNIVERSAL Studios is building a new ride based on the hit movie Transformers, and Resorts World at Sentosa slated to open in 2010 will be the first in the world to get the new ride.

The ride will debut first in Universal Studios Singapore in early 2011 before opening at the flagship Universal Studios Hollywood in summer.

The cost of this ride will be additonal investment from RWS on top of the $6 billion to build the integrated resort.

The attraction, according to Resorts World at Sentosa, 'will fuse 3D-HD media, mega special effects and stunning robotics with a ride system that will transform perceptions of theme park experiences'.

In Transformers, Earth's humans are caught in the middle of an intergalactic war between the friendly Autobots and the evil Decepticons, which are able to change into a variety of objects, including cars, trucks, planes and other technological creations.

Resorts World at Sentosa chief executive officer Tan Hee Teck, said on Tuesday: 'It is great that Asia will be the launch pad for the first Transformers attraction.'

'Transformers was introduced to the United States in 1983 but traces its roots to Asia. Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron are familiar names to Asian audiences, who grew up with the robot toys and love the movie.'

'When Transformers opens in Universal Studios Singapore in 2011, it will be the first of its kind in the world. We may see a surge of Transformers mania.''

Mr Tom Williams, chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts, said: 'Transformers will be a jewel in our collection of world-class rides based on great movies.'

He said the ride will be built with the help of Hasbro, DreamWorks, director Michael Bay and the film's executive producer, Steven Spielberg, who serves as creative consultant to Universal Parks & Resorts and has worked closely with the company in the creation of some of the world?s most innovative theme park attractions.

Those attractions include Jurassic Park ? the Ride, a featured attraction at UP&R parks in Orlando, Hollywood and Japan, the E.T. Adventure at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Japan, and the War of the Worlds sets at Universal Studios Hollywood.


By Lim Wei Chean
Straits Times

ho3x...thats another reason i always love to spend new year at singapore..
thx for information...

Resorts World at Sentosa starts hiring for Universal Studios

10 Nov 08

SINGAPORE: Resorts World at Sentosa wants to hire 2,300 people for its theme park operations by the second quarter of next year.

Its assistant vice-president for Communications, Robin Goh said the company has started to fill 300 managerial and supervisory positions for the Universal Studio operations here.

The integrated resort will send 100 of them to the Universal Studios in Orlando, US for about four months of training. Mr Goh said some of the 200 managers will spend about two weeks there.

He said this will cost Resorts World at Sentosa about S$5 million and is part of the company's training budget.

This news comes less than a month since Marina Bay Sands Resort announced its massive recruitment drive.

Resorts World at Sentosa confirms it is on track to open in early 2010.

Mr Goh said the integrated resort will also keep its promise of offering 10,000 jobs where Singaporeans will get priority in the hiring. Of the 10,000 jobs, 30 per cent or 3,000 jobs will go to the Universal Studios operations here.

In addition, Resorts World is also working with four polytechnics - Temasek, Ngee Ann, Nanyang and Singapore Polytechnics.

They are planning to send about 100 of the poly students to the Universal Studios in Orlando for internships starting next year. They will spend about four months there.

When the students return home, they may get a job at the Universal Studios in Singapore. - CNA

By May Wong, Channel NewsAsia

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v244/redstone2/mximhotel.jpg

Finally managed to upload this. Screenshot of Maxims Tower. IMO it's disgusting. Looks very retro. Looks like something out of a 1970s sci-fi movie, a building from an alien planet. Had it been more subtle like Aldo Rossi, it would had looked much better.

Pictures by thethemeparkguy

Photos taken on March 2:

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/universal-studios-singapore-07-big.jpg
Resorts World complete

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/universal-studios-singapore-15-big.jpg
Universal Studios Mummy Ride

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/universal-studios-singapore-16-big.jpg
Universal Studios Jurassic Park Rapids Ride

More here:
http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/park/universal-studios-singapore/

^^ cool update....

HARD ROCK INTERNATIONAL & RESORTS WORLD AT SENTOSA
UNVEIL
HARD ROCK HOTEL SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE / ORLANDO, FLORIDA, 26 March 2009 – Hard Rock International announces Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, set to open in Singapore, Spring 2010. The luxurious, 360-room Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is part of Resorts World at Sentosa, a US$4.3 billion integrated family resort destination set on the tropical isle of Sentosa. The development epitomizes Hard Rock Hotel’s expansion strategy in its premier locations worldwide.

“The highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is a welcome addition to the Hard Rock Hotel portfolio,” said Hamish Dodds, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hard Rock International. “Resorts World at Sentosa – our hotel’s future home – is rooted in delivering many unique experiences and offering visitors a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. Hard Rock Hotel
Singapore will deliver the perfect rock star luxury retreat.”

Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World at Sentosa, Mr Tan Hee Teck said: “The Hard Rock brand is renowned in Asia. Many young Asians grew up collecting Hard Rock memorabilia and owning at least one Hard Rock T-shirt. Resorts World at Sentosa is very pleased to bring the first and only Hard Rock Hotel to Singapore. As a family destination with two of Asia’s largest
attractions, we believe that Hard Rock Hotel adds not only sizzle to our appeal, but excitement to accommodation options in the region.’’

The Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, a US$223 million venture, will be one of six unique destination hotels at Resort World at Sentosa. The hotel will offer 360 keys, including ten suites and 350 rooms as well as modern conference facilities including 26 meeting rooms and one of Asia's largest column-free ballrooms seating up to 7,300 people. Featuring the latest in audio-visual
equipment, the ballroom will be an ideal venue for concerts, seminars, performances and banquets, and can be further divided into smaller ballrooms or separate conference halls for more intimate affairs.

The guest rooms at Hard Rock Hotel Singapore will incorporate Hard Rock’s tradition of providing luxury, quality service and amenities with a unique music edge. The hotel will contain destination dining venues and high-energy bar locations offering both locals and international hotel guests a place to see and be seen. The pool, a quintessential Hard Rock element, will be a focal area for both music and relaxation as well as a social gathering place.

“The Seminole Tribe of Florida is excited about our newest Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia,” notes Jim Allen, Chairman of Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment. “It’s a testament to the brand that we have such incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in emerging locations.”

The Hard Rock Hotel experience offers luxurious style and substance with a unique rock vibe. Properties are situated in destinations with unique character, tourist appeal and gateway cities. Hard Rock Hotels cater to the evolving and distinctive needs of today’s experienced, modern traveler, who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable properties, whether for business or leisure travel. The 49-hectare Resorts World at Sentosa is Singapore’s only tropical integrated family resort destination, complete with Southeast Asia’s first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world’s largest oceanarium, six unique hotels offering 1,800 rooms as well as a casino, will open its doors to the world early next year.

http://www.rwsentosa.com/photogallery/mainthumb.jpg
Waterworld : Casting works on the concrete structure that form a 3,500 seat spectators gallery and the performance pool, where performers will show off their moves during the stunt spectacular, has been completed. The concrete structure standing on column is called he "performance peninsula". This is the stage where stunt performers will wow the crowd above a pool that goes down to 7m deep.

http://www.rwsentosa.com/images/mainpage_hardrock.jpg
Hard Rock Hotel room interiors: A retreat for trendy jet-setters, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is also a hotel for families. Double rooms can
accommodate up to 5 guests, with an extra pull-out bed for kids.

http://www.rwsentosa.com/images/img_Maxims.jpg
Maxims Hotel Room Interior


^^

Posted by spikeshamz

Taken by big-dog

http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/2745/resizeofp1040177.jpg

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/8995/resizeofp1040190.jpg

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/5079/resizeofp1040193.jpg

Posted in the singapore forum:

Pictures taken on May 11, 2009:

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/universal-studios-singapore-construction-details-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/jurassic-park-the-lost-world-river-rapids-ride-big.jpg

http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/filestore/themepark/universal-studios-singapore/37/coaster-track-inside-the-revenge-of-the-mummy-building-big.jpg

More here:
http://www.thethemeparkguy.com/park/universal-studios-singapore/

Resorts World to meet 2010 Singapore launch date
Thursday June 25 2009

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/images/stories/2009june12/2506-resorts-world.jpg

A construction worker walks past part of a roller coaster track which will be
hoisted into place at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore. The development
will feature a Universal Studios theme park, a casino, four hotels and an
aquarium, the company said. - Reuters pic

SINGAPORE, June 25 — The S$6.95 billion (RM16.61 billion) integrated family resort and casino on Sentosa Island here is nearing completion and on track to open early next year.

Resorts World at Sentosa’s executive vice president of projects, Michael Chin, said all structural buildings at the 49-hectare project would be completed by next month.

The buildings that will be readied under the first phase of the project will include Universal Studios theme park, a casino, a dining strip and four hotels – Hotel Michael, Maxims Tower, Festive Hotel and Hard Rock Hotel.

Briefing the media touring the project site today, Chin said building works, which began in April 2007, were on scheduled, and 60 per cent of the resort’s built-up area would be opened to visitors during its soft opening.

He said the second phase of the project involved two more attractions, the Marine Life Park and the maritime museum and two more hotels, Equarius and Spa Villas, which would be opened progressively.

Chin said Singapore’s largest resort, with 10,000 staff when fully operational, was expected to attract 12 million to 13 million visitors.

The Universal Studio, the only one in South-East Asia, will offer 24 themed rides, including 18 which are exclusively designed for Singapore especially the world’s tallest pair of duelling roller-coasters in the world.

Other attractions are its seven zones which include Sci-Fi City, Egypt, New York, The Lost World and Hollywood, and the Waterworld Stunt Show.

Another similar integrated resort plus casino, the Marina Bay Sands, is also under construction at Marina Bay and is targeted to be completed by year-end. – Bernama

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/components/com_gk2_photoslide/images/thumbm/8245222506_resorts_world_slideshow.jpg

A general view of the construction site of the Resorts World Sentosa
development in Singapore today. Singapore’s financial district and the
Brani container terminal are seen in the distance. - Reuters pic

Genting S’pore casino set to open before rival
Friday July 10, 2009
By RACHAEL KAM

PETALING JAYA: Genting Singapore’s Resorts World at Sentosa (RWS) is in a good position to pull ahead of Las Vegas Sands’ Marina Bay Sands (MBS) in the race to open the first casino in Singapore following a delay in the MBS project, analysts said.

MBS has delayed its soft launch to early 2010 from the original deadline of end-2009 due to a shortage of labour and materials, according to media reports.

HwangDBS Vickers Research, in its latest report, said with RWS on track for a targeted soft launch in January 2010 to catch the Chinese New Year (CNY) peak season, it was possible that RWS would open first.

This is despite RWS having started later, as it was awarded the project in December 2006 while MBS received its approval in May the same year, it noted.

Kenanga Research said in a company update report that RWS was likely to gear up construction works in order to open before MBS.

The research house said that as at March 31, RWS had already awarded about S$4.67bil worth of works out of the S$6.59bil project cost.

“Installation of various fun equipment in Universal Studios has begun while testing and commissioning is scheduled to begin in October,” it noted.

Analysts expect RWS to gain from “first-mover” advantage should it open its integrated resort ahead of MBS, noting that Singapore residents are required by the government to pay an entrance fee of S$100 per day or S$2,000 per year to the casino.

The annual pass is exclusive to one casino only, so the first integrated resort to open will have the advantage of locking in Singaporean patrons early, according to HwangDBS Vickers Research.

An analyst with a foreign brokerage said RWS was very likely to open in early first quarter next year and lock in more local and foreign casino patrons, especially those from China, during the Chinese New Year festive season.

“Whoever opens first will get the first batch of patrons to sign up to be its customer for one year, as seasoned punters will likely sign up for the annual passes,” he told StarBiz.

“Normally, people will get excited with something new but after a while, they will go for what they really want,” he added.

RWS is ready for the opening in the first quarter next year as everything, including construction, is on track while funding for the project is intact, according to the analyst.

“RWS would submit its application for casino licence in this quarter (third quarter).

“Probably it can get the approval before the fourth quarter this year if everything goes smoothly,” he continued.

Another analyst, who declined to be named, agreed that RWS would get first-mover advantage if it opened first, but it would be just an initial gain.

She said RWS had a different target market from MBS, noting that “RWS would attract more family persons with its theme park facilities.”

Resorts World at Sentosa Pte Ltd is the developer of a 49ha integrated resort on Singapore’s Sentosa island.

The company will own and operate all key attractions at the resort, which houses six hotels, a casino, Universal Studios Singapore, The Marine Life Park, the Maritime Experiential Museum and the Equarius Water Park.

Resorts World at Sentosa is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Singapore, a leisure and gaming company listed on the main board of the Singapore Exchange.

Genting Bhd owns a direct stake of 54.4% in Genting Singapore.

Resorts World at Sentosa to stage first event in December

14 Jul 09

SINGAPORE: The integrated resort at Sentosa is expected to open early next year, but it is already planning to stage its first event ahead of the soft launch.

Resorts World at Sentosa has teamed up with children's charity, ChildAid, to host its fifth concert at the Festive Grand Theatre in December.

Organisers have yet to confirm the budget for the three-day event. But the IR has already pledged to donate some S$153,000 in kind and ChildAid hopes others will come forward to beat last year's record of S$506,000 raised.

Peter Khoo, organising chairman, ChildAid, said: "There's definitely a fear that sponsors aren't forthcoming, but our duty is to try."

The theatre, which seats up to 1,600 people, will also house the resort's resident show, Voyage de la Vie. Resorts World said it would be a rock-circus extravaganza, featuring awarding-winning circus acts from around the world.

Andrea Teo, vice president of entertainment, Resorts World at Sentosa, said: "They're sort of telling the story of a journey of a boy through life. A discovery of himself... portrayed through circus acts."

As for whether the theatre will be up on time, Resorts World said construction efforts are on the fast track, with some 6,500 workers currently working on site.

The IR added that it could increase that number to 8,000 or 9,000 workers within the next two months.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/442308/1/.html

New boardwalk to Sentosa

28 Jul 09

http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/Sentosa-Boardwalk-1.jpg

http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/Sentosa-Boardwalk-2.jpg http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/Sentosa-Boardwalk-3.jpg
pics posted by don diego 2000 from ST Photos

BY NEXT November, visitors to Sentosa will have another option of getting to the resort island - on foot. A new 620-m boardwalk with five pairs of covered travellators will make the journey a breeze.

Works on the $70-million boardwalk kicked off on Tuesday.

Ranging from 25m to 40m in width, the walkway will also be lined with retail and food and beverage outlets along the way.

The walkway will link up to Sentosa's integrated resort, Resorts World at Sentosa, which will direct visitors to the resort or to attractions within the rest of the island. It is designed to carry 8,000 visitors per hour in each direction and is part of the resort island's plans to enhance transport links as it gears up for a surge in visitors when the IR opens early next year.

The boardwalk, said Sentosa Leisure Group's chief executive officer Mike Barclay, is part of a $300-million budget to overhaul the transport links on the island to ensure that it can receive the increase in visitors, which is expected to double.

The walkway will offer five different themed gardens, from mangrove, rock garden, terrain and hill, coastal flora and rainforest, giving visitors a different experience as they pass from one zone to the next.

It will be lit at night to offer a different experience. This boardwalk will replace the original pedestrian path along the causeway bridge to the island that was closed in August 2007 for the construction of the second bridge.

http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_409089.html

Resorts World Sentosa ticket sale in Q4
Published: 2009/09/04

GENTING Bhd’s Resorts World Sentosa, a theme park in Singapore, will launch ticket sales in the last quarter of 2009.

Resorts World Sentosa will showcase two special guests at the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents fair this weekend, as a prelude to the attractions at Universal Studios Singapore.

Although ticket prices and hotel rates have yet to be announced, it will offer packages for Malaysian families, it said in a statement.

'Genting S'pore plans over US$1b rights issue'
Published: 2009/09/09

SINGAPORE: Casino operator Genting Singapore is planning to raise more than US$1 billion through a rights issue, sources familiar with the matter said today.

“It’s a big issue. Over US$1 billion,” one source with direct knowledge of the deal said.

Genting shares were suspended earlier today.

Genting Singapore, a unit of Malaysia Genting, is building one of the city-state’s two integrated casino resorts and is also the largest casino operator in the United Kingdom.

Bankers involved in the deal include UBS, JPMorgan, DBS and Deutsche. -- Reuters

Universal Studios Singapore Announces World's Exclusive Attractions Inspired by Dreamworks Animation

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/USSLogoLarge_jpg.jpg

Just in case you've forgotten about it, a brand new Universal Studios theme park will open in Singapore early 2010. The park will of course include Universal favorites like Jurassic Park, Spider-Man, The Mummy and the Waterworld show, but also unique attractions which exist at no other Universal Studios park in the world!

Universal Studios Singapore announced last Thursday the world’s only “Madagascar” attraction, and that the park will also bring to life the world’s first “Far Far Away” Castle from the world of Shrek. Themed after DreamWorks Animation’s blockbuster movie Madagascar, "Madagascar: A Crate Adventure" will be a mega-attraction when the park opens next year. The film will be brought to life with a state-of-the-art indoor boat ride featuring animated figures, digital projection, evocative sound, and special effects that create a one-of-a-kind, funny and fun family ride.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/MadagascarKeyArtbon.jpg?t=1254125342

Southeast Asia’s first and only Universal Studios theme park will also be home to the world’s first Far Far Away Castle, a landmark in the box-office hit series Shrek. King Harold’s 40-meter high castle will house attractions such as Shrek 4-D, Donkey Live and Magic Potion Spin. On the high-res bird's eye view artwork below, Madagascar: A Crate Adventure is located on the left and Far Far Away Castle on the right.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/Birdseyeview2.jpg?t=1254126679

Madagascar: A Crate Adventure and Far Far Away Castle are part of the world’s single largest collection of DreamWorks Animation theme park attractions, making its debut at
Universal Studios Singapore. The collection of six attractions, complemented by more than 10 DreamWorks Animation themed dining and shopping outlets, will also feature rides suitable for the entire family. Let's have a closer look to these new rides all inspired by DreamWorks Animation movies.


Madagascar: A Crate Adventure: The hit DreamWorks Animation films are brought to life with state-of-the-art animated figures, digital projection, evocative sound, and moving show-action effects that create a one-of-a-kind, immersive ride experience. Cast adrift while being transferred from the New York Zoo, our four heroes – Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria – arrive at the shores of Madagascar. Here, they meet the impulsive leader of the local lemurs, King Julien, who, between bustin’ moves on the jungle floor, asks the New Yorkers to help defeat his nemesis – the dreaded Foosa. Aided by the technically- savvy but psychotic penguins, our heroes defeat the Foosa at the rim of a bubbling volcanic cauldron.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/Artistimpression.jpg?t=1254126107

King Julien’s Beach Party-Go-Round: King Julien, the self-appointed king of the lemurs, knows how to move it, move it, and now he spins guests round and round to the beat of high-energy dance music in this crazy carousel, sure to be a family favorite. At this festive beach scene, King Julien and the Lemurs are throwing a party for their favorite freaks from New York: Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/unising3.jpg?t=1254126012


Shrek 4-D: Guests will join Princess Fiona, Shrek and Donkey on a honeymoon adventure that picks up where the Oscar-winning movie “Shrek” left off, through an original 3-D film, complete with jumps, bumps, bounces, air blasts and water spray that bring the action to life for each guest – with an extra dimension of special effects through the miracle of Ogre Vision. This attraction already exist at other Universal Studios parks.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/ShrekKeyArt.jpg?t=1254125606

Donkey Live: Shrek’s fairy tale sidekick Donkey will bring the crowd to its feet in this all-new, one- of-a-kind, interactive live show experience, where guests sing along and even talk with Donkey in an intimate theatre setting. Situated along Far Far Away’s glamorous Romeo Drive, Hook’s Knight Club is the hottest nightspot in town.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/unising2.jpg?t=1254125733

Enchanted Airways: Guests of all ages climb aboard Donkey’s beloved Dragon for a flight over Far Far Away and beyond. At Enchanted Airways, a merry cast of fairy tale creatures – from the Three Pigs to the Big Bad Wolf, from Gingerbread Man to Pinocchio – forms part of a magical airline in the form of a junior coaster that serves destinations throughout the World of Shrek!

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/unising1.jpg?t=1254125925

Magic Potion Spin: As guests make their way past the bubbling vats of Fairy Godmother’s Potion Shop, they’ll encounter the fantastical heart of the factory, the Magic Potion Spin. This miniature Ferris wheel drives a clinking, clanking potion assembly line that circles the room, bottling magical elixirs from a giant wooden vat.

Universal Studios Singapore will be part of Resorts World Sentosa, a $4.2 billion project and a collection of resorts and attractions with fun-filled offerings for the entire family built on Singapore’s resort island of Sentosa and spanning 49 hectares (more than 120 acres) of lush greenery.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/sentosa.jpg?t=1254127871

Besides attractions, Resorts World Sentosa offers six hotels and full conference and meeting amenities. Entertainment performances include the Crane Dance – the world’s largest animatronic performance - set out at the Resort waterfront. Guests of the Resort can also choose from dozens of shopping and dining options at the Resort’s bustling strip, FestiveWalk. Resorts World at Sentosa will have its soft opening in early 2010.

http://i843.photobucket.com/albums/zz352/loaloauk/unising6.jpg?t=1254127977

Source: Disney & More (http://disneyandmore.blogspot.com/)

very interesting...big project which make Singapore still try to be the best for tourist destination...

Updates by 13oh5

03-11-09
Some photo updates here.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2553/4072289232_da54258e20_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/4072271946_205e8c7580_o.jpg


Hotel Michael
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2642/4072280412_300e9bedf8_o.jpg

Maxims Tower on the left
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2705/4071513321_54a7069a76_o.jpg

Festive Hotel - Tower Crane removed
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3509/4072266940_c177c119f2_o.jpg

Festive Walk
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3518/4072262872_e74cf158c0_o.jpg

Genting To Open Sentosa Resort By Early January 2010
November 05, 2009 20:54 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Genting Bhd is on track to open the "Resorts World at Sentosa" in Singapore by early January 2010, said its chairman and chief executive Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay.

He said the project, which cost S$6.6 billion (S$1=RM2.44), would attract 12 to 13 million visitors in the first full year of operation.

"Construction is going on smoothly. We are targeting to open it by early January 2010," he told reporters after the signing ceremony of its RM1.6 billion medium-term notes programme (MTN) with CIMB Investment Bank Bhd and HSBC Bank Malaysia Bhd here Thursday.

Genting's subsidiary, GB Services Bhd, has priced its inaugural issuance of RM1.45 billion nominal amount of 10-year MTN pursuant to its RM1.6 billion MTN programme.

The MTN programme is guaranteed by Genting and has been assigned 'AAA' rating by RAM Ratings Services Bhd.

Lim said the proceeds from the MTN issuance would be used by Genting and subsidiaries for investment, refinancing, working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes.

"We will continue to grow our existing businesses and explore opportunities to expand globally," he said.

Meanwhile, Lim said its Johor Premium Outlet in Kulai, Johor, was slated to open by July 2011.

On the disposal of its non-core asset like power as well as oil and gas divisions, he said: "We are speaking to interested parties but we are not close to any deal."

-- BERNAMA

Get ready for a wild time at Universal Studios Singapore
Friday November 6, 2009
Story and photos by DESIREE TRESA GASPER

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/11/6/southneast/se_06castle.jpg

SINGAPORE: About 14 million people are expected to visit the new USD$4.4bil (RM14.8bil) Universal Studios Singapore that is expected to open here early next year.

The project includes seven themed zones including the futuristic Sci-Fi-City, the ruins of Ancient Egypt, the prehistoric Lost World and the Far Far Away zone, which is modelled after the movie Shrek.

The designs and patterns of the structures were intricate and looked very authentic with experts being flown in from as far as Egypt to help piece together the details of the theme-park.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/11/6/southneast/se_06anubis.jpg

Someone is watching you: A statue of the god of death, Anubis guarding the
entrance of one of the zones called Ancient Egypt which has an indoor
roller-coaster based on The Mummy movies.

He added that a few favourite themed attractions like the Jurassic Park and Water World show would also be featured at the park.

“Of course there have been a few modifications, but visitors will still experience the thrill of exploring the Lost World and the death-defying stunts of the Water World show,” he said.

Chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts Tom Williams commented that the park would be a unique experience for visitors.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/11/6/southneast/se_06jurassic.jpg

A different world beckons: A few journalists from India
pointing towards the main entrance to the Jurassic Park ride.

“The park will be a family destination with many new rides, shows and themes that cannot be found at other Universal Studios parks around the world,” he said during a sneak pre-view of the park.

He added that altogether there were 18 rides that were unique to Universal Studios Singapore and the creative designs were catered specially for Singaporean visitors and theme park enthusiasts.

He added that a special cooling system would be used throughout the park to ensure that visitors were comfortable when enjoying the various rides offered.

There are more new renderings in channelnewsasia......do post them....:yes:

Hi there, Would a new one like me be welcome here?
Thanks so much in deed.

Thank you, this is good news for other visitors

Absolutely amazing! Now I will seriously consider visit singapore.

Singapore would be much more exciting after this opens. Now I really have to start saving for the trip, I'm just from a neighboring country anyway!

^^^^^^^^^
Universal Studios will have its largest theme park in Asia at Resorts World at Sentosa offering 22 attractions within seven themed worlds, of which 16 will be specially designed for Singapore.
It will be developed at the east side of the IR site, using the theme “Ride the movies” and the attractions will be comparable to those found in Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure.

Interest rising as world economy recovers, boosting Mice industry

23 Nov 09


AHEAD of its soft opening early next year, Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) said that it has confirmed 30 event bookings, a number of which are major international meetings that are expected to boost Singapore's standing in the Mice (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) industry.


The most prominent event it has attracted so far is the 11th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention (WCEC), happening on Oct 5-7, 2011. Held every two years in a different city, the WCEC is a key platform for ethnic Chinese entrepreneurs to learn from one another's experiences, discover new opportunities and expand networks. It is expected to draw 4,000 of the top business leaders from around the world.

'We are an Asian company operating in Asia,' said RWS chief executive Tan Hee Teck. 'Our roots date back to our late founder and chairman Lim Goh Tong, himself a self-made Chinese entrepreneur. It is an honour for Resorts World Sentosa to host the WCEC.'

As for major events next year, those that it has sealed include a Nu Skin Enterprises South-east Asia Convention and a Best World International anniversary awards convention, which are expected to garner 7,000 delegates and 2,000 delegates respectively.

There is also the Asia Pacific Retailers Convention 2011, which will draw some 1,500 guests.

'As the world's economy recovers, we are getting strong interest from organisers for events from 2010 to as far ahead as 2014 and that gives us great confidence in Singapore's meetings and incentive travel sector in the mid to long term', said RWS director of Mice Elena Arabadjieva.

One of the two integrated resorts that is being built in Singapore, RWS has been garnering plenty of buzz around the impending opening of its Universal Studios theme park. When opened, it will be the only one in South-east Asia. RWS also houses the world's largest Marine Life Park, six hotels, a casino and a palette of Las Vegas-styled entertainment, world-class performances, restaurants by celebrity chefs and retail shops.

RWS has the capacity to host up to 35,000 Mice guests at any one time. Other than event spaces within Universal Studios Singapore, it has 26 function rooms located within the Resorts World Convention Centre. As well, it houses one of Asia's largest column-free ballrooms that seats 7,300 people.


By CHEN HUIFEN
The Business Times

Thanks for sharing the post
______________

Pic by paradyto

http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/2765/sing10.jpg

First Victoria's Secret in Asia to open here

17 Dec 09

Lingerie retailer will open at Resorts World Sentosa in Q1 next year

VICTORIA'S Secret is coming to town. And hopefully, so will some of the company's models.

Ashvin Valiram, director of Malaysian-based retailer Valiram Group, says that this will be the first Victoria's Secret store in Asia and it will open at Resorts World Sentosa - with Valiram's other new-to-market brands Canali and Damiani - in the first quarter of next year.

Already, there are plans to fly in brand ambassadors such as Sharon Stone and Orlando Bloom to grace various events.

On whether the famous Victoria's Secret fashion show could be included, Mr Valiram said: 'Never say never.'

He revealed that he has had his eye on Victoria's Secret for some time. 'We have been talking to the company for the past five years.'

The clincher for the US-based lingerie and beauty products retailer was a spot at Resorts World Sentosa, which has a high international profile, according to Mr Valiram.

Valiram only secured the deal to be the sole operator of the 30,000 sq ft luxury retail segment in May. 'A herculean task,' he said.

It will spend $18 million to fit out the space that will include 24 stand-alone boutiques.

'It's a travel retail business that will focus on tourists and high rollers,' he said.

The model for the space is similar that for duty-free shopping at airports - probably because Valiram first ventured into retail with duty-free shops at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in 1997.

Today, the company also operates luxury fashion space at Changi Airport's Terminals 2 and 3.

About 80 per cent of the brands for its Resorts World at Sentosa space have been confirmed, including Bally, Bvlgari, Chanel, Coach, Jimmy Choo, Tod's, Vertu and Ralph Lauren.

But there are notable omissions, such as Louis Vuitton - a brand which has become synonymous with luxury retail.

Mr Valiram says that the company has had discussions with Louis Vuitton, which may consider an outlet at Sentosa later.

He concedes that 30,000 sq ft is not a large space, but says that he expects to 'maximise space productivity'.

Valiram will also be looking to expand its business outside Sentosa.

It recently opened a flagship Coach store at Paragon shopping centre and is always on the lookout for the 'right location'.

With retail rents likely to moderate, this should not be a problem.

Put off by the high retail rents in previous years, Valiram decided to stay out of the market.

But things are different now.

'I get more excited in a crisis because we get to do more logical deals,' Mr Valiram said.

By Arthur Sim
Business Times

Yes, the hotels will have a wonderful view of the container port.

By Jessica Lim - StraitsTimes.com - 6 Jan 10

Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) announced on Tuesday that it will throw open its doors on Jan 20, but those who want to visit the Universal Studios Singapore Theme Park or roll the dice at its casino will have to wait a little longer.

Announcing the highly anticipated opening date yesterday, RWS said that when Jan 20 rolls around, four of its six hotels and 10 restaurants and lounges will begin operations.

The four hotels are the Festive Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Crockfords Tower and Hotel Michael. The restaurants and lounges include modern patisserie Boulangerie on the second level of Festive Hotel and Indian restaurant Rang Mahal on the second level of the Hard Rock Hotel.

The IR's theme park, FestiveWalk - a 500-metre stretch featuring retail outlets, restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs and clubs - and theatre are slated to open within the next two months, RWS spokesman Robin Goh said on Tuesday.

He said the testing of rides has already begun, and added that the theatre is ready for use - it staged its first event, the ChildAid charity concert, late last month.

No firm date was given for when the casino will open, but it is likely to be in the first quarter of the year, according to Mr Goh, who said an application has already been made to Singapore authorities.

By Cheryl Lim, Channel NewsAsia | 06 January 2010

Tour agents in Singapore are launching special packages for hotel stays at Resorts World Sentosa, which is slated to open on January 20. Reservations for the hotel rooms at the integrated resort will open only on January 11 at 10am. However, the integrated resort said it has received hundreds of calls on its reservations hotline.

Travel agents said while they are targeting markets like the US and the UK, their main focus will be visitors from around the region - including Indonesia, Hong Kong and China. Other travel agents said they are offering hotel stays at Resorts World as part of a regional tour package to places like Malaysia, Bintan and Batam.

Alicia Seah, senior vice-president, Marketing and PR, Commonwealth Travel Service, said: "We are expecting families, leisure travellers as well as business travellers, who are holding their incentive trips here in Singapore."

Moreover, those early birds who do not mind the fact that the casino will not be ready until late January will get 30 to 40 per cent off the travel deals. Judy Lam, group vice-president, Sales & Marketing, Tour East, said: "The pre-opening packages can start from S$200 to S$300 for either a two-night package or a three nights' package. The actual opening packages would start from about S$500."

During the soft launch, room rates at Resorts World's three hotels - Hotel Michael, Festive Hotel and Hard Rock Hotel - are likely to range between S$400 per night for a regular deluxe room and S$3,000 for the presidential suite.

Universal Studios Singapore is a new theme park located within Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island, Singapore. It was a key component of Genting's bid for the right to build Singapore's second integrated resort. It was announced on 8 December 2006 by the Singapore government that the consortium had won the bid and construction of the theme park and the rest of the resort then started on 16 April 2007 and will be opening in early 2010. It will be the second Universal Studios to open in Asia and the first in Southeast Asia.

The official plans for the park were unveiled to the public when Universal Studios Singapore released a map of the park to the public on 20 October 2009

Taken by 13oh5

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4171494391_1683dcba84_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2690/4171507315_0ed4e1fe36_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4172259890_d64cf1d126_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2536/4171500455_e118457d60_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2490/4171497163_784dd67eb5_o.jpg

Resorts World Sentosa to have over 60 F&B outlets

SINGAPORE: An army of 2,700 workers will operate at Resorts World Sentosa to ensure guests do not go hungry.

When the integrated resort is fully operational, it will have more than 60 F&B outlets.

Some of the world's best chefs have been roped in, including 25 Michelin-star culinary stalwart, Joel Robuchon. He is opening not one, but three restaurants at the resort.

The F&B team at the integrated resort has a mammoth culinary task. They have to whip up about 40,000 meals daily for about 12 or 13 million visitors expected annually.

And to win the gastronomical challenge - they are taking astronomical steps.

John Sloane, vice president, Culinary Operations, Resorts World Sentosa said: "We will have 191 chefs just in the central kitchen doing the production. On a daily basis, we will move about 900 kilos of beef, one tonne of chicken, two tonnes of vegetables and numerous other items."

The selection of dishes also came after a lengthy period of R&D.

Roger Lienhard, vice president, F&B and Rooms, Resorts World Sentosa, said: "We do have Italian food, but what kind of Italian food we don't have? So we went to Northern Tuscany. We looked at all our food courts.

"We wanted to have Hong Kong food, which is in the casino, which is very authentic. And we went soul-searching in Hong Kong - I don't know in how many little shops I ate in Hong Kong."

With one of the biggest catering jobs in Singapore, the resort will also serve up to 5,000 banquet guests at any one time in one of Asia's biggest ballrooms - Resorts World's Compass Ballroom.

However, there are concerns whether the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort will have similar offerings when it opens.

Mr Sloane said: "If our competitors have similar dishes, we would have to make sure our technical proficiency in the kitchen can deliver that as a better eating component for you as a consumer, when you come."

And when it comes to food, Resorts World said it promises the world's best cuisines in one destination.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1029164/1/.html

Ready for IR crowd

With Resorts World Sentosa set to make a big splash when it opens, businesses in the surrounding area are gearing up for what they hope will be a crush of visitors in coming months

http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20100114/ST_IMAGES_TWSPRUCE.jpg

WITH just months to the completion of Phase 1 of Resorts World Sentosa, and days to the debut of four of its hotels, businesses in and around Sentosa are feverishly primping up.

Buildings, facilities and decor are being spruced up or expanded, and employees are being trained to handle crowds expected to spill over from the integrated resort (IR).

Take St James Power Station, sited just across the water. It has just emerged from a six-month, $1.5 million makeover which has added a new sports bar and upgraded two of its nine clubs.

Its Mandopop club Dragonfly now has a three-tiered stage and high-tech lighting and LED screens; 20 new artistes have been hired, and a money-changing service will begin operating at its main reception area.

After Chinese New Year, another two of its bars will be upgraded.

It may be a bit early for the three-year-old entertainment complex's first renovation, but its chief executive Dennis Foo, 56, thinks it is necessary.

http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_477662.html

More thrills, spills on Sentosa

MORE fun times are in store for visitors of Sentosa over the coming months, with new attractions opening across and above the island.

Besides the integrated resort (IR), a brand new cable car system, skydiving simulator, beach club and visitor arrival centre will be rolled out this year.

They come right after two new attractions - water sports centre Azzura and surfing hot spot Wave House - opened last September and October, respectively, at Siloso Beach.

The timing is hardly coincidental.

'We made sure that the project would be completed about the same time as the IR would be,' said Mr Lawrence Koh, who brought the skydiving simulator, iFly, to Singapore.

'The opening of the IR will drum up a lot of interest in Sentosa and its attractions. We want to attract these visitors,' said Mr Koh, who expects half of iFly's visitors will be those going to the IR.

RWS opens 4 hotels

20 Jan 2010

By Lim Wei Chean

AT THE auspicious 8.18am on Wednesday, Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) opened the doors of its four hotels to the public.

They are the Crockford Tower, Festive Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Hotel Michael.

Genting Group chairman Lim Kok Thay told reporters it will next open the retail and dining strip, Festive Walk, to be followed by Universal Studios theme park and then the casino, for which it is still awaiting a licence to operate.

RWS CEO Tan Hee Teck said some 6,400 staff are already on the payroll. Construction works on Phase Two have begun and are expected to be completed by next year.


http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_479729.html

One of the forumers visited yesterday and took these pics. I've reposted his pics and commentary:

There are, of course, about a million ways to get to the casino because that's where Genting wants you to go... but this is the path from the "main" hotel entrance between Festive Hotel and Crockfords. (For this and future posts, consulting the official online map (http://www.rwsentosa.com/MapResortsWorldSentosa) will be handy, it's pretty confusing even on site since there are absolutely zero maps!)

The first thing to understand: the hotel lobbies are level 2, and the casino is two levels underground (B2F). Here's the entrance down from the hotel level:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Casino_GroundLevelEntrance.JPG

Down two flights of escalators with changing LED lights and LED panels featuring swimming fish...

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Casino_Escalators.JPG

Through a spooky underground hall with projected images all around (those "cloud" things on the wall, they move around!)

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Casino_Underground.JPG

And ta-dah, you finally get to the actual entrance gates:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Casino_EntranceGates.JPG

Looks like North-East Line or what? :lol: Note the signs marking the entrances for "Foreign Guests" and "Singaporeans/PR".

Now, the entrance gates are actually at one end of the semi-outdoor Festive Walk retail mall (kinda like Bugis Junction), only it's not open yet:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/FestiveWalk_Hoarding.JPG

There are also more escalators down deeper yet to the car park and the shuttle bus stand.

More...

There are now four hotels open, but the Hard Rock is separated from the rest by the convention centre (open but empty) and the casino (not open yet). This means that right now, if you want to go there from the rest of the complex, you need to go out from the Festive Hotel's lobby and follow the driveways for a hundred meters or so.

From the outside:
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/HardRockHotel_Outside.JPG

Lobby is very low-ceiling and kinda boring:
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/HardRockHotel_Lobby.JPG

But the fake "lagoon" area by the pool isn't too bad:
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/HardRockHotel_Lagoon.JPG

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/HardRockHotel_Lagoon_Closer.JPG

Rang Mahal Pavilion restaurant also looks good:
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/HardRockHotel_RangMahal.JPG

Next door, actually a part of the same building as the hotel (you can walk across the two inside), is the convention center:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/ConventionCenter_Outside.JPG

Decoration is pretty hideous:
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/ConventionCenter_InsideLobby.JPG

And while I'm sure naming your conference rooms after the signs of the zodiac sounded good, who's going to want to go to a room called Cancer? :bash:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/ConventionCenter_OnTheJob.JPG

Fortunately this guy doesn't seem to care too much :cheers:

More...

Festival Hotel is the family-friendly option and it's reasonably nicely decorated:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/FestiveHotel_Lobby.JPG

Including some weird art:
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/FestiveHotel_Elephant.JPG

After a bit of shopping (Victoria's Secret seemed popular!), the casino entrance (see above) and more shopping, we get to the entrance to Crockfords:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/FestiveWalk_Entrance.JPG

Note the shortcut to FestiveWalk that will open here later. The Crockfords Tower's claim to fame is millions of dollars worth of Chihuly art:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Crockfords_Entrance.JPG
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Crockfords_Ceiling_Chihuly.JPG
http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/Crockfords_LobbyDesk_Chihuly.JPG

Very Vegas, but what the hey, it's pretty :cheers:

Hotel Michael I didn't take any pictures of for some reason, it didn't look particularly good and I was in a hurry to go see more interesting stuff. The main connecting bridge from the rest of Sentosa will apparently terminate here, but it's not ready yet:

http://patokallio.name/photo/travel/Singapore/ResortsWorld/HotelMichael_ConnectingBridge.JPG

RWS hotels booked solid till March

25 Jan 2010

http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2010-01-25/BT_IMAGES_UWHOTEL25-2XW.jpg

http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2010-01-25/BT_IMAGES_UWHOTEL25-9DX.jpg

(SINGAPORE) Thinking of staying at one of the newly opened hotels at Singapore's first integrated resort (IR) anytime soon?

If you haven't booked a room at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) by now, you will likely have to wait until March at the earliest before you can take a vacation there. The IR revealed on its Facebook fan page last Friday that its four newly opened hotels 'have reached maximum capacity' until the end of April. Then, in an update posted on Saturday, it said that it had 'managed to free up some rooms' in the months of March and April.

This past weekend (Jan 23-24), RWS saw occupancy rates at its four hotels soar to over 90 per cent, said Robin Goh, assistant director for communications, adding that both the Festive Hotel and the Hard Rock Hotel Singapore reported full houses.

RWS expects to be operating at full or near-full capacity during weekends for the foreseeable future. Already, every room during a nine-day period spanning the upcoming Chinese New Year holiday from Feb 13 to Feb 21 has been snapped up by both Singaporeans and overseas guests eager to be among the first in the world to stay at the IR.

Last Wednesday, RWS celebrated the soft opening of four of its six hotels - Festive Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Hotel Michael and the by-invitation-only Crockfords Tower. This was the first of several phased openings at the $6.59 billion development on the island.

Collectively, the four hotels offer 1,350 rooms and 10 restaurants. The other two hotels - Equarius Hotel and Spa Villas - will add another 500 rooms when they are launched as part of the second phase later this year.

When the IR's call centre first opened its hotline on Jan 11, the first three days alone saw some 5,000 room nights booked. RWS said last week that it expects six out of every 10 visitors to be from overseas, and of these, a quarter will come from China.

But there could be some hope yet for latecomers, said Mr Goh. 'As per industry practice, travel agents have what is known as 'agent allotments' of rooms. Hence, guests might be lucky to snag a room if there are some rooms still available under individual travel agents.'

His advice: Book rooms fast before demand surges as more attractions and entertainment options, including the casino and the Universal Studios Singapore theme park, open over the next few months.

Rack rates start from $400 a night for Festive Hotel, $450 for Hard Rock Hotel and $500 for Hotel Michael.


By LEE U-WEN
Business Times

Update on the casino

Resorts World Casino opens its doors

The Casino will have its first play on 14 February at an auspicious hour. A private ceremony will be carried out, and we will then our first public guest at 12.18 pm.

A day of festivities at the Integrated Resort has been planned to mark the red-letter day, including a debut of our public attraction, Lake of Dreams.

Throughout the Lunar New Year period, Resorts World Sentosa™ will be rolling out a series of entertainment and food and beverage options for visitors.

Universal Studios Singapore Festive Tours

Universal Studios Singapore will open 5 pm to 9 pm every night from 14 Feb to 21 Feb. Visitors can purchase tickets, costing $10 each, and get dining and shopping vouchers of the same value. The park’s dining and retail outlets will be open for dinners/quick-bites and shopping.

Ticket sales start from 12.18pm Friday, 12 February, at the ticket booths outside Universal Studios Singapore.

Members of the public are discouraged from turning up for the tours without a pre-bought ticket.

my wife :drool:..and i...:cry: so miss singapore...:ohno:







.

Yeah, not only is its urban environment modern and well-planned (i.e., dense and proximate urban environment and very accessible and pedestrian-friendly shopping streets) but also very clean and lush green.

And, this development is a microcosm of that. Resorts World Sentosa is so well-planned. I do have complaints when it comes to the aesthetics department.

Yeah, not only is its urban environment modern and well-planned (i.e., dense and proximate urban environment and very accessible and pedestrian-friendly shopping streets) but also very clean and lush green.

And, this development is a microcosm of that. Resorts World Sentosa is so well-planned. I do have complaints when it comes to the aesthetics department.

i totally agree....^^....my only complaint tho is that they all drive the wrong way...:ohno:

i tried to do that in sydney....and a pavement hit me....:nuts:







.

^^ Haha... :lol:

Really?! Well, that usually happens when you're used to a left-hand drive system.

thanks for the updates

Resorts World at Sentosa Singapore

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4874293643_ab7b5ea41b_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4878884267_2503b0264c_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4874295859_4d60276472_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4874902308_c1991aa6be_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4874899236_989c1fca8e_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4116/4874290257_188b2bace7_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4874897306_ec5e981a01_b.jpg

RESORTS WORLD AT SENTOSA
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/4959426230_6eee66a827_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/4945530146_90c432abc8_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4945512072_cbd1551167_b.jpg

RESORTS WORLD AT SENTOSA (UNIVERSAL STUDIOS) PROMOTIONAL VIDEO
aiHYsgCQwd8

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5043986970_42619b1f91_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5043986970_42619b1f91_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4567591980_7fa9dab564_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4567591980_7fa9dab564_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4378997362_dc11644382_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4378997362_dc11644382_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2732/4378997374_7677286d9f_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2732/4378997374_7677286d9f_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2679/4375246833_0fa7346a34_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2679/4375246833_0fa7346a34_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4378352687_0e1f30232b_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4378352687_0e1f30232b_b.jpg

Damn, Singapore really has gone in to the deep end straight away with all these casinos:)

Hows Universal Studios performing so far?

Damn, Singapore really has gone in to the deep end straight away with all these casinos:)

Hows Universal Studios performing so far?

USS is doing great!!:) They plan to roll out more rides like the Transformers one by end 2011.:cheers:

USS is doing great!!:) They plan to roll out more rides like the Transformers one by end 2011.:cheers:

Nice. Thanks for that info.

With all the troubles many parks are having being built, or remaining open, I can only hope USS continues to do well. Its a valuable addition to Singapore's tourism attractiveness:)

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5201/5277039419_4abdac3fca_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5201/5277039419_4abdac3fca_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4805459718_339d815b83_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4805459718_339d815b83_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4804711555_e211e217a7_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4804711555_e211e217a7_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4805400394_eddcffe7d5_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4805400394_eddcffe7d5_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4804771879_4132054a1a_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4804771879_4132054a1a_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4805396000_f79ef38e66_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4805396000_f79ef38e66_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4805392212_668f54d397_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4805392212_668f54d397_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4804748417_6e9038a036_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4804748417_6e9038a036_b.jpg

taken August 2010
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06706.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06708.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06710.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06714.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06715.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06718.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06723.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06744.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h209/jadebench/Singapore%202010/DSC06746.jpg

Nice development

hoorayyy!! :banana: :banana: :banana: finally Genting win!! :) :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

That's great congratulations...

USS is doing great!!:) They plan to roll out more rides like the Transformers one by end 2011.:cheers:
http://i763.photobucket.com/albums/xx276/afiqnadzir/backdraft_promo.jpg
http://i763.photobucket.com/albums/xx276/afiqnadzir/transformersride2.jpg
http://i763.photobucket.com/albums/xx276/afiqnadzir/transformersride1.jpg

they till have the place for all these stuffs?

they till have the place for all these stuffs?

This was all planned before the park opened so they probably still have space for more rides.:cheers:

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1100702/1/.html

New waterfront show at Resorts World Sentosa
By Sharon See | Posted: 22 December 2010 2331 hrs
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/imagegallery/store/phpgFqhkF.jpg http://www.channelnewsasia.com/imagegallery/store/phpXf5Nan.jpg

SINGAPORE : Resorts World Sentosa will launch a new show - the Crane Dance - this Saturday.

The waterfront show involves two cranes, each 30-metre high or as tall as a 10-storey building.

It is the world's tallest dancing animatronics show, and because of its scale, it will be visible even from across the waterfront at VivoCity.

The show will involve a slew of digital art, LED displays, light and water effects, pyrotechnics as well as an original score.

The cranes are made almost entirely of steel and weigh some 80 tonnes each.

But that does not make them any less dexterous and graceful when they mimic the birds' courtship dance ritual in the wild.

Developed over 36 months, the show was created by four-time Emmy Award winner Jeremy Railton, who has designed many live concert stages for international performers including the late Michael Jackson, Cher, Barbara Streisand and Diana Ross.

"I wanted to ensure that not only was it going to be an iconic headliner, it had to resonate with Asian influences, yet touching the hearts of an international audience through a simple story about love," Mr Railton said.

The free nightly spectacle, located at the waterfront of Resorts World, debuts on Christmas Day.

- CNA/al

CRANE DANCE RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5293139361_a038c23109_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5293139361_a038c23109_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5283/5293687998_e9141232e8_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5283/5293687998_e9141232e8_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5293668376_0e197752ba_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5293668376_0e197752ba_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5286/5293013371_1d68d5897c_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5286/5293013371_1d68d5897c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5293543658_cf05809162_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5293543658_cf05809162_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5248/5293541822_8e641812a6_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5248/5293541822_8e641812a6_b.jpg

Orignally posted by Zolozai

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs589.ash2/154115_1758187479561_1385228136_1883275_3805531_n.jpg

http://l21.sphotos.l3.fbcdn.net/hphotos-l3-snc4/hs1183.snc4/150566_1758185799519_1385228136_1883267_157284_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs597.ash2/154961_1758187119552_1385228136_1883274_4785021_n.jpg

An update on the dolphins being used for RWS Marine Life Park.


RWS relocates 7 dolphins to Philippines
Posted: 08 January 2011 2004 hrs

SINGAPORE: Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) says it has relocated seven dolphins to the Philippines as part of its overall strategy to set up a satellite facility identical to its permanent operations in Singapore.

The dolphins are destined for RWS' yet-to-be-completed Marine Life Park.

RWS adds that it has set up an animal hospital and laboratory in the Philippines, hired a vet who specialises in marine mammals to support its consulting veterinary team and continue with its husbandry and behaviour training programmes.

The integrated resort says the relocation of the dolphins in December last year from a holding area in Malaysia's Langkawi island to the Philippines was done to enhance and expand the training and development of the dolphins and trainers as well as to continue integrating the dolphins into social groupings.

RWS will also start preparations to commence its long-term goal of developing a breeding programme for the dolphins.

It says details of the Marine Life Park are still being finalised.

The care and well-being of the dolphins are of paramount importance and they will be moved to Singapore only when the facility is ready, fully complying with international regulations, which include the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna, says RWS.

There were originally nine dolphins at the Langkawi holding area, but two died in October from an acute bacterial infection. The dolphins were caught from the wild at Solomon Islands in January last year.

- CNA/ir

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5283/5355943976_06c3da8d34_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5283/5355943976_06c3da8d34_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5355943966_8445a5915c_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5355943966_8445a5915c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5290/5355943962_fb86751343_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5290/5355943962_fb86751343_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5355943960_78ba7992a5_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5355943960_78ba7992a5_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5243/5355943956_9b6e5f70fa_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5243/5355943956_9b6e5f70fa_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5355943946_fb8d394abc_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5355943946_fb8d394abc_b.jpg

nice photo..i like to see more pic of sentosa..!do they will put dolphin in that pool?

nice photo..i like to see more pic of sentosa..!do they will put dolphin in that pool?

Thanks.The dophins will be in the Marine Life Park which isnt opened yet. Heres more info on the Marine Life Park:http://www.rwsentosa.com/language/en-US/Attractions/MarineLifePark

Thanks.The dophins will be in the Marine Life Park which isnt opened yet. Heres more info on the Marine Life Park:http://www.rwsentosa.com/language/en-US/Attractions/MarineLifePark

thanks...when the marine park and the museum will open to public?and also transformer,madagascar and battle galactica?

thanks...when the marine park and the museum will open to public?and also transformer,madagascar and battle galactica?

The Marine Life Park will only open in 2012. The Museum, Transformers, Madagascar and Battlestar Galactica rides will all open through out 2011. In addition 4 new attractions at USS will open by end 2012.:cheers:

RESORTS WORLD AT SENTOSA

uBcryrl97o8

SENTOSA BROADWALK

from flickr
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5215/5392174541_c344f40eeb_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5215/5392174541_c344f40eeb_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5179/5392272933_dc08023c2f_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5179/5392272933_dc08023c2f_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5392181179_d0209b3b2b_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5392181179_d0209b3b2b_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5251/5392878610_53686732e2_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5251/5392878610_53686732e2_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5171/5392192321_a8f6003584_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5171/5392192321_a8f6003584_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5392787642_37c37cf5f1_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5135/5392787642_37c37cf5f1_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5011/5392183725_d9f22d2f7c_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5011/5392183725_d9f22d2f7c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5392843616_4a593d7805_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5392843616_4a593d7805_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5392833242_eb84edfa8b_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5392833242_eb84edfa8b_b.jpg

CRANE DANCE
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5171/5392218597_7b3abd201a_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5171/5392218597_7b3abd201a_b.jpg

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1107758/1/.html

Take a stroll to Sentosa island
By Jason Tan | Posted: 29 January 2011 2355 hrs

SINGAPORE: Sentosa is now just a stroll away from VivoCity, with the opening of the Sentosa boardwalk.

And travelling to the island on foot could now be a more fun experience.

This S$70 million boardwalk is lined with themed gardens, shops and eateries.

It is convenient for the elderly and handicapped too.

There are travellators and a covered walkway for rainy days.

To encourage more people to walk to Sentosa, the entrance fee to the island for those who enter on foot will only be S$1.

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean was on site to launch the new walkway.

"The boardwalk is a wonderful way of connecting Singapore together with the main island. It allows both Singaporeans and tourists an additional way of getting onto Sentosa to enjoy its delights. But it's also a place where Singaporeans and tourists can come to enjoy the view, the many facilities here at the boardwalk," he said.

So far, the boardwalk has been a hit with visitors.

"I think it's good, another experience, very nice, and it's sheltered," said a visitor.

"I like it, very beautiful. The first time I'm here," said another.

"It's a lot healthier to actually walk on foot. And I think it also helps to alleviate some of the traffic conditions. As you can see it can get crowded sometimes during the rush hours over here," said a third visitor.

- CNA/ir

SENTOSA BROADWALK
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5406030120_59e5310799_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5406030120_59e5310799_b.jpg

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1108444/1/.html

Battlestar Galactica roller coaster to reopen on Feb 21
By Imelda Saad | Posted: 02 February 2011 1443 hrs

SINGAPORE: After almost a year of being grounded, the world's tallest duelling roller coaster, the Battlestar Galactica, will resume operations on February 21.

Channel NewsAsia understands that authorities have given Universal Studios Singapore the required license to reopen the ride.

In a statement, Universal Studios said officials had worked closely with Singapore authorities and theme park safety experts to determine the cause of the failure and to correct the fault.

The ride went through months of re-engineering and thousands of test cycles.

It was shut down in March last year, just weeks after a grand opening of the theme park, after a failure had been detected on one of the seats during routine checks.

The fault was attributed to fatigue cracks detected in a welded component of the seat's support structure, the part which attaches the coaster's seat to its frame.

All welded components for the seats have since been replaced with a new machined part.

Prior to re-opening, Universal Studios Singapore will host a series of special events, including dedicated ride access times for team members of Resorts World Sentosa, invited guests from the ride's sponsor Panasonic and annual pass holders.

During this period, park guests may also be invited to ride on the coaster as operational procedures are refined.

Mr John Hallenbeck, Vice President of Park Operations, Resorts World Sentosa, said: "Battlestar Galactica is a signature and prominent ride at Universal Studios Singapore and we are so excited about it taking to the skies again. We expect sellout crowds and are advising guests who have been waiting for Battlestar Galactica to book their February tickets in advance."

Battlestar Galactica, themed after the hit TV show about an on-going battle between Cylons and Humans, is comprised of both the suspended 'Cylon' coaster and the seated 'Human' coaster that chase each other on twisting integrated tracks. Riders on both coasters experience unbelievable thrills as they zoom, loop, turn and narrowly avoid collision.

Each Battlestar Galactica track is a kilometer-long and the ride takes approximately 90 seconds to complete.

-CNA/ac

RESORTS WORLD AT SENTOSA
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5017/5423810215_627afe5df3_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ivytravelling4ever/5423810215/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5424412552_4ca32fec94_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ivytravelling4ever/5424412552/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5296/5423808815_1e9a95b84e_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ivytravelling4ever/5423808815/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5423809101_7a053de4fd_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ivytravelling4ever/5423809101/

As of 31 Jan 2011

from flickr
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5098/5404845621_4192a1d4cd_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/adforce1/5404845621/in/set-72157600006522530/

when the battle galactica will?

when the battle galactica will?

The Battlestar Galactica Rollercoaster will reopen on 21 Feb 2011.:cheers:

SENTOSA BROADWALK
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5093/5446237009_af36271318_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5446237009/in/photostream/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5293/5446236999_78d66cdf1a_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5446236999/in/photostream/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5212/5446236997_6d8e3d93b3_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5446236997/in/photostream/

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/5446236991_c81ff51534_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5446236991/in/photostream/

The Battlestar Galactica Rollercoaster will reopen on 21 Feb 2011.:cheers:

it is open for public or just vip and somebody?

it is open for public or just vip and somebody?

Its open to the public from 22 feb.:)

Love the Entertainment area, these development are very unique.

Battlestar Galactica is actually open to the public since 4 February 2011, for technical rehearsals. They will allow either small to large numbers to ride the coasters at different time throughout the day. It will operate like usual, but taking breaks in between the hours.

Anyway, it will officially re-open today. The Maritime Xperiential Museum will open later this year.
Madagascar: A Crate Adventure will open soon, probably 2nd quarter this year, while Transformer: Ride is schedule to open at end of this year.

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1112077/1/.html
Battlestar Galactica reopens
By Imelda Saad | Posted: 21 February 2011 1516 hrs

SINGAPORE: The world's tallest duelling roller-coaster the Battlestar Galactica re-opened on Monday after eleven months of being grounded.

The ride, which is the star attraction of Universal Studios Singapore, was forced to shut down just a week into the opening of the theme park.

Routine tests had detected a fault in one of the seat support structure of the ride, leaving one seat detached from its frame.

The fault was attributed to fatigue cracks detected in a welded component of the seat's support structure, the part which attaches the coaster's seat to its frame.

All welded components for the seats have since been replaced with a new machined part.

Justin Ko, a 24-year-old marketing executive, brought his 61-year-old step father, from Australia to the park.

"I brought him here to try it out, because you know he's all the way from Australia and if a 61-year-old man can take it like I told him, anyone can take it really...anybody," he said.

Another visitor, 22-year-old student Lee Leann, said: "We just planned to come today and we found out it was opened. We are quite excited. We are quite lucky, fortunate that it's today."

Universal Studios Singapore said it took nine months to fully complete testing the ride.

This involved thousands of simulated ride cycles using water dummies and coming up with a revised engineering model using computer simulation and actual on-site conditions.

From the model, engineers came up with a revised design for the ride which was then field tested.

A unit was also sent to Germany and put through an accelerated simulation where engineers simulated the entire lifespan of the equipment.

This is to ensure the revised model met the longevity requirement of the ride.

Donald Maclean, Ride & Show Director with Universal Studios Singapore, said: "It took nine months to complete the process because of the level of due diligence that required and also because of the fact that with the park opened 10 hours a day, our window of opportunity for testing is quite limited in the overnight hours.

"We found that there was one of the welds that was overstressed in actual field operations. Sometimes that happens in theme park rides that new and unique so what we did was we removed that weld and have it replaced with a solid steel machined part and we also added a gusset which was able to provide us with a second load path or some redundancy. That way we were able to ensure that the longevity requirements are met."

Still, not everything went smoothly at the Cylon section of the roller coaster as Channel NewsAsia witnessed guests disembarking just before it took off.

At least three engineers were seen inspecting the ride, which was then put though one more round of cycle test, before guests were again allowed onboard.

Channel NewsAsia understands that a guest had pulled out a camera and the ride was stopped as a safety precaution.

As part of its safety procedures, it is the standard operating procedure for technical crew to check everything when the ride is on an emergency brake. The ride is then tested once more without guests and when it comes back, all safety checks are done again, and guests are allowed onboard.

Universal Studios Singapore did not want to reveal visitor numbers for the day.

Some people Channel NewsAsia spoke to have said that they had put off visiting the theme park for as long as Battlestar Galactica was grounded.

John Hallenbeck, Vice-President of Park Operations with Universal Studios Singapore, said: "We've heard quite a bit that people were waiting for Battlestar Galactica to re-open and it is open now, the park is fully opened and everybody has the opportunity to ride the movies and we're very happy it's back up and running.

"In some regards people thought the park was not fully opened which is not true and now that it is I think we'll see visitorship rise."

Coming attractions for the park includes the Madagascar ride, which will open by the middle of this year and Transformers, which will open early next year.

- CNA/fa/ac

Watch love take flight... Crane Dance
7s9MOq6FixA

Rws theme park is good although it small i like it.

but for crane dance, its not impressive enough like. Lake of dream too (like a group of guy pee around"

Casino is the best but worth 100sgd for .....

Rws theme park is good although it small i like it.

but for crane dance, its not impressive enough like. Lake of dream too (like a group of guy pee around"

Casino is the best but worth 100sgd for .....

The 100sgd levy implies only on Singaporean and Singapore PRs.

There was this musical fountain on sentosa last time, called Magical Sentosa. It was a classic musical fountain with water projection screens, fires, lasers. It was truly interesting and magical, until being replaced by Songs of the Sea.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5093/5471972631_4eedbd9e1b_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5471972631/in/photostream/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5292/5471972623_276209c1dc_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5471972623/in/photostream/

Maritime Xperiental Museum
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5471972615_858675f990_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/5471972615/in/photostream/

The 100sgd levy implies only on Singaporean and Singapore PRs.

There was this musical fountain on sentosa last time, called Magical Sentosa. It was a classic musical fountain with water projection screens, fires, lasers. It was truly interesting and magical, until being replaced by Songs of the Sea.

i have to pay that 100sgd....

i prefer the classic musical fountain.

Battlestar Galactica: The Reopening
zhTNw_z4mcM

from flickr
SENTOSA BROADWALK
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5138/5503661025_da24fae0bf_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/adforce1/5503661025/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5098/5503323805_07a70898e6_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/adforce1/5503323805/in/photostream/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5131/5503321309_4c30c83f12_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/adforce1/5503321309/in/photostream/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5503115333_10f3d2d1e4_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/adforce1/5503115333/in/photostream/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5291/5502881027_b7f56fdf64_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/adforce1/5502881027/in/photostream/

The design seems so haphazard...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5603132990_d9ab119cbe_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36177777@N00/5603132990/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5104/5603126408_96a0c08a3d_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36177777@N00/5603126408/in/set-72157626335595929

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5068/5603129192_169f0e891c_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36177777@N00/5603129192/in/set-72157626335595929

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/5602541673_2960d51a5d_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36177777@N00/5602541673/in/set-72157626335595929

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5262/5603121234_b7fa7cc0c6_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36177777@N00/5603121234/in/set-72157626335595929

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4109/5602545165_fea83cddc0_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/36177777@N00/5602545165/in/set-72157626335595929/

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5060/5503220796_2bafd0996b_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5060/5503220796_2bafd0996b_b.jpg

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1129202/1/.html
Thousands flock to Universal Studios for new Madagascar ride
By Evelyn Choo | Posted: 16 May 2011 1742 hrs

SINGAPORE : Thousands flocked to Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa on Monday morning for a feel of its newly-opened ride, Madagascar: A Crate Adventure.

Even if you've never seen the animated movie by DreamWorks, the nine-minute ride - one of the longest rides in Universal Studios Singapore - promises to be a blast for riders, especially the younger ones.

"Amazing! It's exciting, especially for the kids, they can see all the characters in the Madagascar movie," said one guest.

"We thought it was a little bit tame. But the music was fabulous and the characters were very nicely done," said another.

"The nice thing about Madagascar: A Crate Adventure is that it really is a ride that's available for three generations - from kids to adults to grandparents. Everyone can ride it, so it's a great addition to Universal Studios Singapore," said John Hallenbeck, VP of Park Operations, Universal Studios Singapore.

The ride took about three years to conceptualise and create.

"Water rides are the most difficult attractions to create because water is fluid and unpredictable, whereas roller coasters and other mechanical type rides are easy to engineer," said Kevin Barbee, executive designer, Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa.

With this new launch, organisers now say it's all systems go for the grand opening of Universal Studios Singapore on May 28.

- CNA /ls

Source:http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/43113816/ns/today-entertainment/
Arnold terminated from theme-park opening
Universal Studios in Singapore disinvited actor after infidelity revelations

By Ken Baker
updated 5/20/2011 4:12:55 PM ET

Universal Studios Theme Park in Singapore is giving Arnold Schwarzenegger a big ol' hasta la vista baby.

The scandal-plagued actor was disinvited from a scheduled appearance at the amusement park's opening festivities this weekend, a source tells E! News.

Operators at the park didn't think the former governor of California, who just revealed he fathered a 13-year-old love child with his housekeeper/mistress, Mildred Patricia Baena, was the best name they could use to promote their family-friendly venue.

So who's replacing the Terminator? And no, it's not Ashton Kutcher.

No word yet on if there is an official stand-in for Schwarzenegger, although a source tells E! News that "X Factor" judge Paula Abdul has agreed to attend the opening along with a slew of other American stars.

"With all the complications surrounding him, they decided to dump him," said a source familiar with the negotiations that would have brought Arnold to the park's opening festivities.

Universal Studios Theme Park higher-ups told the actor not to come two days ago, on Wednesday, before he announced he would be taking a break from that planned return to acting.

Organizers for the bash had announced that Schwarzenegger and Jet Li had been scheduled to appear together at the opening, set for May 28 at the park, which features 21 rides, live shows, and the word's tallest dueling roller coaster.

Reps for both Schwarzenegger and the park have not yet reponded to requests for comment.

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporebusinessnews/view/1131520/1/.html
Resorts World Sentosa says it's "on track" for Phase 2 opening
By Hoe Yeen Nie | Posted: 27 May 2011 1203 hrs

SINGAPORE: Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) said it's "on track" to open the second phase of its integrated resort, which includes a maritime museum, an aquarium and a marine life park.

These attractions will open progressively from the third quarter, this year, beginning with the museum.

The marine life park is expected to open fully by mid-2012.

RWS said it's expecting 16 million visitors this year, up from 15 million in 2010.

Universal Studios Singapore is also projecting 4 million visitors this year, double the number in the first nine months of its soft opening in March 2010.

These numbers were released at a news conference ahead of the theme park's grand opening on Saturday.

Celebrations include a Hollywood-style gala dinner on Friday, which will be attended by celebrities such as Paula Abdul, Jet Li and Maggie Cheung.

- CNA/cc

Is Universal Studios fully open or are they continuing to expand after the grand opening? Looking forward to visiting Singapore in January!

Is Universal Studios fully open or are they continuing to expand after the grand opening? Looking forward to visiting Singapore in January!

They will be adding more rides and attractions. If i'm not wrong the Transformers ride will be ready by years end:cheers:

other then transformer?

other then transformer?

They didn't reveal any information. But there will be four more attractions after Transformers Ride. There will be 24 rides in total, but currently only 20 of them are announced.

i hope it will be another 2 mega rolller coaster,log flume and hunted ride

^^ i'm looking forward to visit The Maritime Xperiential Museum

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS GRAND OPENING
MG3-Njv4qpo

Source:http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC111027-0000346/New-Transformers-ride-to-launch-at-Universal-Studios-Singapore
New Transformers ride to launch at Universal Studios Singapore
11:53 AM Oct 27, 2011

SINGAPORE - Universal Studios Singapore will launch the world's first theme park attraction based on Hasbro's iconic Transformers brand on Dec 3.

Director and executive producer Michael Bay - who also served as the attraction's creative consultant - will be in Singapore to celebrate the world premiere of Transformers The Ride on Dec 2.

"I am very excited about the debut of this attraction at Universal Studios Singapore. Finally, Transformers fans will not only have the chance to watch the Autobots battle the Decepticons on screen; they'll actually be part of the action," said Mr Bay.

The ride will feature 12 scenes, comprising sets blended seamlessly with hyper-realistic 3-D digital media and special effects to bring tactile realism to every moment. Guests will be unable to discern illusion from reality as they get transported onboard advanced motion-based ride vehicles into the Transformers universe said Universal Studios Singapore in a press release.

CEO of Resorts World Sentosa Tan Hee Teck said: "The world debut of Transformers The Ride at Universal Studios Singapore exemplifies how Resorts World Sentosa has continued to build on its leading reputation as the number one destination resort in Asia. We are most thrilled to bring the milestone launch of this franchise here."

Styled into the ride, guests are "enlisted" as NEST recruits and tasked to help the Autobots protect a remaining shard of the Allspark - the energy cube that gives life to the Transformers. As the Decepticons attack the facility to steal the shard, guests will be introduced to a new Autobot, EVAC, created exclusively for the ride.

Guests will then have to climb aboard EVAC for the ride of their lives, zipping through subway tunnels, down city streets and across rooftops, with the Decepticons hot on their heels.

More details will be posted on the attraction's official blog, http://tftheride.rwsentosablog.com in the weeks leading to the launch.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7005/6491468407_a98ef0a083_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/h2obaby/6491468407/)
DSC_4241 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/h2obaby/6491468407/) by jeremewong (http://www.flickr.com/people/h2obaby/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6491515905_83b697d8f1_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/h2obaby/6491515905/

by don diego 2000Pics of the latest hotels and theme parks to be opened soon in RWS

Equarius Hotel
http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/IMG_0666.jpg

Marine Life Park
http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/IMG_0663.jpg

http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/IMG_0664.jpg

Water attractions in Marine Life Park
http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/IMG_0667.jpg

Spa Villas
http://i630.photobucket.com/albums/uu22/don_diego_2000/IMG_0665.jpg

Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1203317/1/.html
Sesame Street ride to open at Universal Studios S'pore
By Monica Kotwani | Posted: 24 May 2012 1633 hrs

SINGAPORE: It will be a trip down memory lane for many Singaporeans when the Sesame Street Theme Park Ride opens at Universal Studios Singapore later this year.

It is the first Sesame Street ride in Southeast Asia and only one of three in the world.

But for those who cannot wait, there is also something else in store these June holidays.

Visitors to Universal Studios Singapore will get to meet eight Sesame Street characters, including Bert, Oscar and Cookie Monster, as they perform three shows daily and get interactive with audiences from Monday.

The theme park ride will open later this year and will be located at the corner of 'New York Street', one of seven themed zones in Universal Studios.

Vice-president of Entertainment at Resorts World Sentosa, Andrea Teo, said: "I think it's a very unique ride. It's got the same Sesame Street kind of humour, it's a bit wacky, it's a bit way-out-there. it'll make you laugh and because it's a ride, it also gives you a bit of a thrill."

Visitors can also have a buffet breakfast experience with the Sesame Street characters later this year.

- CNA/cc

News on the opening of Marine Life Park and the official opening of Resorts World Sentosa.


Marine Life Park to open to public ahead of RWS official opening
By Olivia Siong | Posted: 24 September 2012 1120 hrs

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/components/display_image.php?id=510987
The Shipwreck Habitat in S.E.A. Aquarium, part of Resorts World Sentosa's Marine Life Park. (Siti Nur Mas Lina, channelnewsasia.com)
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/components/display_image.php?id=510986
Bird's eye view of Resorts World Sentosa Phase II developments. (Siti Nur Mas Lina, channelnewsasia.com)
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/components/display_image.php?id=510988
Visitors undergoing a briefing before being allowed into the Rainbow Reef at Marine Life Park's S.E.A. Aquarium. (Photo by Olivia Siong)
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/components/display_image.php?id=510991
Visitors are pushed through the Rainbow Reef by strong currents in the man-made tank, allowing them to 'snorkel' through the attraction. (Siti Nur Mas Lina, channelnewsasia.com)

SINGAPORE: Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) said it targets to bring in 16 million visitors next year.

The integrated resort also announced that its second anchor attraction - the Marine Life Park - will open days ahead of RWS' official opening on December 7.

The exact date of the park's opening was not given to the media.

The Marine Life Park will be the world's largest oceanarium and will house more than 100,000 marine animals.

These include 25 dolphins, which will be part of the park's interactive programme that starts next year.

The dolphins were the subject of controversy last year, with some animal welfare groups calling for them to be freed.

In response to critics, Mr Biswajit Guha, director of Education and Conservation at the Marine Life Park, said: "The dolphins are doing very well, 25 of them (are) in the Philippines. I don't have any firmed up dates yet to share with you at this stage about when they'll be arriving.

"Essentially, all of the standards meet and in fact exceed the guidelines set by the American Zoos and Aquariums Association, as well as the Alliance for Marine Mammals Parks and Aquariums. In that respect, we're fully confident that the dolphins will receive the best care possible."

Mr Guha added the Marine Life Park is open to continue working with non-government organisations (NGOs) and other agencies that focus on marine education and conservation.

He said they welcome the opportunity to collaborate on such issues.

RWS first opened to the public in 2010 and has attracted some 30 million visitors since then.



http://www.channelnewsasia.com/components/display_image.php?id=510940

Map showing the location of the upcoming Marine Life Park (blue region) at Resorts World Sentosa. (Photo: Resorts World Sentosa)


- CNA/cc


source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1227699/1/.html

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/550683_10151215724047040_352137899_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/550683_10151215724047040_352137899_n.jpg

Some latest news on the development.



Acquisition of 25 dolphins in line with global requirements: Marine Life Park
Posted: 13 October 2012 1716 hrs

SINGAPORE: Singapore's Marine Life Park said its acquisition of 25 Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins caught in the wild, followed international requirements.

A spokesman of Marine Life Park said Saturday that they are in line with the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates the trade of animals to protect wildlife species from extinction.

The spokesman had said so in response to queries from Channel NewsAsia on a report that a court in the Philippines has moved to stop the 25 dolphins from being re-exported to Singapore.

This followed calls from environmentalists and activists to prevent the transfer of the mammals, which are housed temporarily in Manila before being sent to Marine Life Park.

A report on the website of The Philippine Star said a Quezon City court decided on Friday to stop the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources from issuing a permit to re-export the 25 dolphins in Ocean Adventure Park in Subic.

The report added that the court granted a petition by animal welfare groups and issued a 72-hour "temporary environment protection order" preventing the re-export of the dolphins.

The dolphins were imported from the Solomon Islands in 2008, 2009, and 2011 and brought to Subic for training while Marine Life Park was under construction.

The Philippine report said the court decided to stop the 're-exportation' on the grounds that doing so would cause irreparable damage to the dolphins.

Responding to the report, the spokesman of Marine Life Park said on Saturday that the movement of marine animals, including dolphins, is governed by the United Nations Environment Programme which upholds the policies of CITES.

Marine Life Park's spokesman said the dolphins are currently doing well in the Philippines.

He added that the Marine Life Park has an experienced team of animal experts who collectively represent over 300 years of experience working in more than 60 reputable zoological facilities around the world.

"With a mission to promote marine education, conservation and research, Marine Life Park strives to offer an educational and memorable experience that inspires a generation of stewards for the environment," he said.

Marine Life Park at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) will have the world's largest oceanarium with more than 100,000 marine creatures when it opens ahead of RWS's official opening on December 7.

Animal activists, such as Animal Concerns Research & Education Society (ACRES) in Singapore, have been lobbying to get the wild-caught dolphins released back to their natural habitat.

ACRES said on Saturday that they are delighted that the Philippines government is reviewing the re-export of the dolphins, adding that the capture of these dolphins was unsustainable, and that it would be a violation of Philippine law to allow these dolphins to be re-exported to Singapore.

- CNA/lp


source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1231139/1/.html


Philippine court lifts order preventing export of dolphins to S'pore
Posted: 17 October 2012 2017 hrs

SINGAPORE - A Philippine court on Wednesday lifted the temporary environment protection order preventing its 25 captive dolphins from being exported to Singapore.

A Quezon City court on Saturday issued a 72-hour temporary environment protection order to block the export of the dolphins, which were headed to the Resorts World Sentosa's (RWS) Marine Life Park, after animal rights groups there filed a civil suit.

A RWS spokesperson said the integrated resort is "pleased that the court has decided to lift the temporary environment protection order".

"Our dolphins are doing well under the care of our team of experienced experts, and we look forward to welcoming them to Singapore," said the spokesperson.

"We regret that the group which initiated this court action had gone on various public platforms with inaccurate statements pertaining to our dolphins, perpetuating the same falsehoods that we had repeatedly made numerous clarifications and corrections to in the past," he added.

The spokesperson reiterated that the resort's acquisition of the 25 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins adhere to regulations governed by the United Nations Environment Programme under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

He added that the Marine Life Park is also set up for, and is preparing for accreditation with international accreditation bodies on its standards of animal husbandry, veterinary care and facility.

In a statement, the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) said it "regrets" that the court lifted the temporary environment protection order, "despite the strong evidence presented and a strong ruling previously".

"This fight is far from over, we will file a motion for reconsideration," said Acres.

It added that it will be launching the next phase of its campaign in Singapore shortly to increase the pressure on RWS to "respond positively to public concerns about the plight of the dolphins".

- TODAY/ir


source: Channel NewsAsia - All Rights Reserved (http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1231886/1/.html)

The same news in TODAY.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/404597_10151249465757040_1781095839_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/404597_10151249465757040_1781095839_n.jpg

Another one by mypaper.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/557819_10151249715237040_1834012903_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/557819_10151249715237040_1834012903_n.jpg

ADVENTURE COVE WATER PARK
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8218/8263679492_90b07eff61_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8263679492/)
Adventure Cove (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8263679492/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8329/8347091169_b099f411d2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8347091169/)
Bluwater Bay (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8347091169/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8488/8262614037_7a6d844f16_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8262614037/)
Adventure Cove (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8262614037/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8347092233_b3d7a015d2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8347092233/)
Bluwater Bay (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8347092233/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8083/8344233766_d0c3bccc94_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8344233766/)
Big Bucket Treehouse (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8344233766/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8184/8368300583_0bf2a2d474_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8368300583/)
RipTide Rocket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8368300583/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8387413123_b0103cd285_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8387413123/)
Adventure Cove (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25802865@N08/8387413123/) by chooyutshing (http://www.flickr.com/people/25802865@N08/), on Flickr

Source:http://sg.entertainment.yahoo.com/blogs/going-out-by-day/sesame-street-ride-universal-studios-singapore-090017846.html
New Sesame Street ride at Universal Studios Singapore
By Shah Salimat | Going Out – By Day – 23 hours ago

http://l3.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/LIhK.OGChYzGh8SXWEL5Kw--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NQ--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-SG/blogs/goingoutbyday/630yahoo_sesamestreet1.jpg
The new Sesame Street ride opens to the public on March 1. (Yahoo! photo)


If you've got fond memories of Sesame Street or are just a big fan of the characters, this one's for you.

Media were given a sneak peek into the new theme park ride at Universal Studios Singapore, Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase, on Monday morning.

Guests on-board rocket capsules will be transported to a zany science-fiction plot where characters such as Elmo and Grover have to prevent three new villains from stealing all the spaghetti and noodles on Earth.

The ride, which lasts about seven minutes, takes guests on-board each rocket capsule through the familiar sights of New York City, as the capsule weaves down Sesame Street and guests meet beloved characters such as Oscar the Grouch and Count Dracula.

Try not to blink as you are navigating the course – some 7,500 stars made out of optical fibre will illuminate the cavernous tunnel throughout the ride.

http://l1.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/mIzOgpz2NT.YlHY7JSklwA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NQ--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-SG/blogs/goingoutbyday/630yahoo_sesamestreet2.jpg
The ride brings you to a new zany universe where Sesame Street characters must prevent villains from stealing all …

Director of park operations Brian Machamer said talks to set up the ride began two years back. Executive design director Kevin Barbee said spaghetti was chosen as a main ride concept as it references to the Italian immigrants of New York City, in which the show originates, but “relates well to the Asian culture” as it is a type of noodle.

The ride opens to the public on March 1 but is currently undergoing final rehearsals.

According to organisers, this means the public will be able to board the ride during selected times as determined by staff, before the official opening.