Complaint: Sentosa Spooktacular 2013

Well, I can't even fathom how infuriated I am right now at the time of typing this entry; but I just hope to voice out my opinions after attending the event.

(Credits to my boyfriend for helping me to carry my bags and taking the photos while I was in costume. Most of the below featured photographs were taken by him.)

In fact, it is heart-wrenching for me to be posting this as I am just an ordinary Halloween fanatic just like anyone else who deserves to have a well-spent one with loved ones ; and I had been looking forward to writing how much fun I've had.

Unfortunately, reality is just not the case but a far cry from my expected version of Halloween. Don't get me wrong - I am not a tough customer, but just one who simply wants to enjoy the event for the price I paid.

Just as some of you are aware, I was so, so looking forward to what was supposed to be one of the grand Halloween events in Singapore - Sentosa Spooktacular. 

After hearing about how highly raved it was from previous years, I decided to purchase the tickets for my boyfriend and myself despite feeling the pinch of how much I've paid. (Fancy that - It was NOT cheap at all even though I got them through a deal website for $66.60 with a few perks.)

In fact, I had been wanting to go for Spooktacular since it was held during previous years; but the price ALWAYS never failed to stop me in my tracks - and it took me a great deal of hesitation before I finally decided to go for it this year.

Of course, with that amount of hefty price paid - I was really expecting an awesome and one of the most memorable Halloween ever spent. I pinned my hopes way too high.

However, it was one of the worst turnouts for me - beyond ridiculous waiting time, illogical time frame of walking the haunted trails and the treatment of having to be classified as "low class" just because the tickets I purchased were just NORMAL passes instead of EXPRESS ones. (People who can afford the express passes will be given priority)

It was so apparent that money is still the bottom-line above all. 

Simply put; if one cannot afford the express passes (which will require a top up of around $26?) ; then one shall suffer the fate of having to go through the long waiting time just for a trail that lasted less than 15 or 20 minutes; whereas those with express passes will be able to smile happily and complete the 5 haunted trails.

The main reason WHY I am so infuriated was because we were only able to complete ONE freaking trail out of the FIVE that we were supposed to enjoy for the price that were paid. It's not even justifiable as we were not even late when we got there; but somehow wasted majority of our time on queuing up.

In other words, we spent money to QUEUE and waste our time - Just because OUR tickets were NORMAL passes.

Don't get me wrong - I am fine with queuing; but the waiting time can make even the most tolerant person flare up.

 Let me recount how I spent my Halloween at Sentosa Spooktacular:

- We reached Beach Station at 7pm. (Spooktacular was supposed to start at 7pm and end at 11pm)

-We had to wait for the tram that would be sending us straight to the venue at Fort Siloso (We had no other option as it was our first time there and thought it was good that there was transport to the destination). However, the tram queuing part was quite bad as well; and we had to spend quite some time waiting for it.

-I believe it was nearly 8pm when the tram dropped us off where Spooktacular was held - BUT alas; there was still a long walking distance away from the ACTUAL destination. So we had to spend more than 10 minutes walking through the pathways that led us there, etc.

- We were made to wait again and watched scary videos on a large screen at the entrance before the curtains were opened for us. (Note: Time was wasted on the waiting part before the video was shown)

-When we FINALLY got in, there were wandering scare actors; which I thought was kinda cool as I loved the atmosphere. We took some photographs together before proceeding to the queue for the haunted trails. As there were 5 trails available, we had to choose one randomly (since we thought we would be going for the rest eventually anyway). However, we were completely appalled when it was stated that the queue was around 60 minutes long PER trail. In reality, it took MORE than that. (And can you imagine they only allow small batches to enter at one time? This added on to the insanity of queuing as we felt as though the queue was taking forever. Is this right that we should feel like this for the amount of price we paid?)

-After so much impatience and helplessness, we finally got our turn (like FINALLY!!). Right, the haunted trail was quite good and the scare actors were very professional - there is no denial about that. The whole trail lasted for around 15-20 minutes.

And... That was it. 

Yes.. Just like that.

There was no chance for us to queue up for any other trail anymore. The queues for the rest of the trails were INSANELY long - so ridiculous that I felt it was impossible for us to complete even the slightest 2nd trail. I believe the event staff were busy filtering between those with express passes and normal ones ; as those with express ones would be given priority to enter. We were asked what type of passes we had - and could only helplessly reply they were the normal ones. The staff took a look at the queue, and gave us an embarrassed smile. It was apparent that it was impossible for us anymore should we want to catch the last train back home.

Can you imagine how sucky I felt at that very point of time? For the $66.60 paid PER person, I actually felt cheated. In fact, I can safely say that I spent $66.60 just to take photographs with the scare actors; queuing up for ONE of the FIVE haunted trails.... and that was it.

Let me breakdown the time frame and you will understand why I mentioned it's illogical:

Sentosa Spooktacular event: 7pm to 11pm (4 hours)

There are 5 haunted trails in total. 1 trail requires around 1+ hour of waiting time for normal passes. (There were people who experienced up to 90 mins of waiting time!)

5 haunted trails = 5 x 1 hr+ = Approx. 6 hours

And the approx 6 hours are SOLELY the time spent on waiting and EXCLUSIVE of the amount of time spent on walking the haunted trails.

So how..? Technically speaking, one will need around 7- 8 hours to complete everything; whereas the event is only 4 hours. Even with extended hours, I doubt they are enough!

So can I safely assume that this event is only catered for people who can afford express passes?

Normal passes were treated as the lowest class of the lot; and I believe it is one of their gimmicks to get people to "upgrade" to express ones so they could earn more. Well, Sentosa Spooktacular - If this is one of your ways to scare off those with normal passes using the "wasting-time" method, then I shall tell you that you have succeeded.

You have successfully scared my friends and I, YOUR first-time customers into not returning anymore. I know that you could make do with not earning our money since there are still so many people out there who were willing to PAY for express passes and get to enjoy what they wanted; but I just hope to voice out my displeasure and opinions on what I think of the event as a normal pass holder.

To cut the long story short, if YOU do not have the capability and ability to cater to the amount of people, then there is no point in pushing your ticket sales because there are bound to be very unhappy customers like me who felt underprivileged to go through this undeserving experience.

It beats me why there were even express and normal passes in the first place; it's just like encouraging people to invest in the express ones for the ultimate experience and normal ones are just for people who couldn't afford it and yet trying their luck to get the most out of it.

Even if this is not their intention; but this is exactly what and how I feel like as a customer.

I thought that it would be better if Sentosa Spooktacular only charges for what we go for. In other words, to charge per entry to one haunted trail instead of making customers pay full price and yet had us give up the rest of the trails due to the insanely-long queue which we have no control of. I understand that we are at the losing end no matter what- but still; it's just a simple welfare and spare of thought for people like me. At least, I will be contented with only paying what I go for.

Nonetheless, I shall post the few photographs that were taken at the event - Now the only thing we can do is to make ourselves look like we are soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the event when we are apparently not...

With my love:

Ending this entry with a bear I bought at the event; the only thing that I thought was cute:

I am not posting this with any means of "spoiling" Sentosa Spooktacular's reputation or anything for that matter; but I am just expressing how unjustifiable I felt the whole event was for me. So much for a Halloween!

Fun with the kids @ AWWA - KOPFS 3rd Anniversary!

Oh God, this is such an overdue entry. But I am still going to post it nonetheless as it sure was a memorable event worth remembering. 

(That is what makes a blog even more important, right? Maybe I will be my own reader someday and read my own old entries while reminiscing the old times. LOL!)

Ah, have I ever mentioned in my blog that I am a proud member of KOPFS? (King Of Pop Fanatics Singapore).

Anyway, it is an official Michael Jackson Fanclub in Singapore (with one of my buddies, Marie, as the President of the club). We would have occasional gatherings, annual charity events, etc.

Having been a Michael Jackson fan for only 3 years, I felt it was more than that. The people and love I have met and received throughout the years were simply amazing. 

It was our 3rd Anniversary this year and we thought we could do something special ... By volunteering our services at AWWA at one of their annual events.

Basically, it was a day of fun with the children from lower privileged families. (Those children are so OMG adorable. You should have seen them!)

Unfortunately, I am unable to post photos of the children due to privacy issues :( 

Was' feeling kinda' disappointed as I had wanted to share on my blog- but I guess I shall respect the unspoken rules.

Pardon the poor quality photos as they are taken off my Facebook:

Marie, the lovely President from KOPFS. She was happily playing with the alphabet puppets that she brought and donated to the centre! :) 

Puppets? The children were thrilled!

After 1-2 hours of fun with the children at the centre - making sandwiches and playing with dress-ups, we set off to our destination of the day - Marina Barrage.

And that's me, busy camwhoring while doing an advertorial for Glampuss :)

(Yes, this beautiful ring is sponsored by them!)

We brought along the sandwiches that we made: (Egg Mayo and Tuna!)

Captured a photo of MBS at a distance. Cool, huh?

I was totally in love with this kid - She is such a darling - and a totally good sport at posing for my camera.

Kissing poses, peace signs, etc... You name it and she had all done it!

Although her face is censored due to privacy issues, but you can still see her expressions. Hahaha.

*Awww*

While the other kids were enjoying themselves flying kites and playing with water, here we were - Having some camwhoring marathon and taking photos of ourselves. LOL:

Different poses, same spot =_=:

And here comes the monkey shot: (Gosh. we were crazy! LOL)

And me trying to act sexy:

*cough* *cough*

I love our expressions from this shot. HAHAHA. I don't know why I am loving this UN-glamorous photo though!

Marie: I'm gonna strangle you!

Cat (me): I'm gonna poke your nostrils!

Miao: Oh wait - I'm flying!

Okay, am gonna post a normal shot of us before anyone submits my blog to the mental hospital:

Children having fun with the water:

(I dared not go near the water as one of the kids had wanted to splash me with it! - and I didn't have another set of clothes to change into!)

It was about to rain and I took this shot - Artistic NOT?!?!

Afraid of getting drenched, we came up with a genius idea of shielding everyone from the rain:

(I thought we looked like some walking pasar-malam! LOL!)

RELUCTANTLY, the day ended as everyone parted ways to head back home.

I am glad that everyone, especially the children had fun nonetheless. (Those smiles from the children will melt your heart anytime, really!)

I would totally do it again if given a chance.

Special thanks to Miao and Marie for being part of this special day as well. :))

If anyone knows of any charity organizations / service centres that wish to collaborate for any future events, etc... Do feel free to let me know!
I am actually considering to sell my art pieces to help the needy. (I had thought of this idea since last year, but didn't have the chance to put this plan into action.)
Seriously, I don't mind exchanging my passion for art to create a difference in someone's life.
Let's spread the love.

Haw Par Villa Trip - Reliving Childhood days

I have always wanted to re-visit one of Singapore's historical attractions (or at least it used to be), but I had been putting off the plan due to my never-ending procrastination.

Yes, the place is none other than...

 Haw Par Villa (虎豹别墅)

(Picture credits to www.SPI.com.sg)

I am pretty sure most Singaporeans - even if you haven't been there- would have heard of this place. If you've not, I am sure your parents or grandparents will be glad to tell you about it. (Yes, ask them!)

Remember the splash rides that take you on a journey to the 10 Courts of Hell - an experience that would never fail to send a chill down your spine?

Remember the life-like statues that have a story to tell?

Remember the costume rental shop that you could rent all kinds of Dynasty-looking costumes from and have your photo taken?

*sigh*

Those were the days!

With thanks to my close bud, Marie's suggestion for a meetup - We settled on a trip to Haw Par Villa. Gosh, I did certainly look forward to it! I have been soooo curious to know what has happened since news had it that the place has been under plans of being demolished. (Or did I remember wrongly?)

I am always saddened by the fact that people are always commenting how "scary" the place is, and how it SHOULD be torn down cos' nobody frequents there anymore.

But come on... It's a piece of Singapore's history! 

Can you imagine how glorious Haw Par Villa used to be back in those days? Just the thought of it busting with crowd and little children squealing in delight as they ran around the place is enough to put a sad smile on my face.

After some "researching" using my Googling skills, here's a nostalgic photo I found - Something that will forever be frozen in that moment as depicted in the photo:

Crowded, wasn't it?

It was a pity I wasn't born during that era, I guess. How I wish I could be part of that historical moment and witness the happier days of Haw Par Villa.

(That is why photographs are so important. It showcases a transition of time!)

With the new implementation of Circle line, travelling to HPV is so much more faster and convenient. Can you imagine that - I used to dread travelling there due to the inaccessibility via trains? I had to take the bus to get there and the journey would take me around 1 hour or more. It was crazy, especially for a person who is suffering from motion-sickness like me.)

So yes, I love the Circle Line! (It only took me around 30 minutes or less to get there now, much to my delight!)

 Back to 2012 - I finally alighted at the "Haw Par Villa" station:

(I was actually surprised that there were INDEED quite a number of visitors there. It was most unexpected as I thought that nobody would go there anymore. There were even tour buses  parked! Is Haw Par Villa coming back to "life" again? *prays hard*)

Now follow me as I take you on a short trip with me through the photos I captured:

The long route that marks the beginning of the journey:

Look! What's that on top?

When you reach the red gates, you'll be bound to spot a sign that tells you to beware of the Guard Dog:

Not sure if it is meant to be a scare tactic or there really is one. I wouldn't want to find out though. Lol:

Beautiful sculptures:

Some of the sculptures and statues seemed to have been repainted as they look pretty new!

I am sure attempts have been made to maintain its glory:

Pandas, anyone?

That's before Jia Jia and Kai Kai were even born! LOL

A close-up of the one of the pandas:

The Opium War Hero, Lin Zhe Xu.

2 Sumos advertising for Tiger Balm products? 

I was fascinated by the statue version of the Tiger Balm products, so I went closer to take a look:

So cute, ain't they? Haha. :) Solid!

The 12 zodiacs:

Do you spot anything familiar?

Well, if you don't... Here's another:

Although I do not know the meaning of it (Statue of Liberty appearing in a Dynasty-themed place), but I still find it a fascinating sight. It has not changed one bit since the last time I was here!

The famous Fu Lu Shou:

Visitors were actually throwing their coins in here for blessings/well-wishes!

Look at the greenery of the pond! It still looks epic, doesn't it? :)

The colorful benches that look sooo inviting:

Another part of the vicinity:

A beautiful place for photography, especially for themed shoots!

Anyone wanna shoot me in my Ge Ge outfit? ;) Hahaha

Gosh, breathtaking. 

This particular statue is quite hidden. Marie spotted it and told me, which I then took a photo. Pigs!

Going further up:

See the giraffes?

Featuring a shot of my adorable buddy, Marie! (Yes, I think she looks great in here!)

Artistic not?? LOL

Marie suggested this shot- So here I am - touching the Buddy's tummy like a typical tourist and hoping for some good luck:

Marie engrossed in reading the text explaining the story behind it:

I realized that there were quite a number of joss sticks being offered in certain areas, such as this. Does anyone know the reason why??

Animal Galore!

Confucius!!!

The workmanship is fantastic. Everything seems so detailed:

A huge shelter that can shield you from the rain:

One of my favorite parts of the area. Using the word "Beautiful" is an understatement.

The pond even looks clean!

More close-up shots:

The mermaids:

(I actually witnessed 1 bangala posing with the mermaid statue by lying on top of it =_= I believe the photo would turn out looking wrong. LOL)

The Goddess of Mercy:

I love the red circle door!

One of the more "modern-looking" statues:

Old school much?!?!

Another beautiful area again:

I totally LOVE. LOVE. LOVE this view! It is a pity that the top area is inaccessible already. :(

It would be such a breathtaking view to take a photo from there!

Check out the water:

Surprise- There are still tortoises alive and swimming in there! I wonder what do they feed on for survival?

The cafeteria that I initially thought would still be operating. Sadly enough, it seemed to have been closed down for some time already. According to Marie, this place was still in operations 2 years ago.

Everything still looks fine though, with many stuff that are still intact - such as the cash registers, basins, etc.

Look at the power points:

Looking beneath the shutters:

Here's a small treat for you if you have managed to survive reading my entry so far:

(LOL LOL! Can you believe that?! I actually took this photo in Haw Par Villa around 10 years ago. The costume was rented from the now-defunct rental store there. )

Yeah yeah. Laugh all you want!

The famous vehicle that has always been a part of Haw Par Villa:

A pleasant surprise! LOOK! A huge influx of crowd!

Can you believe that I am taking it in 2012?!~

Tour buses:

We went to explore the 10 Courts of Hell as well, but I didn't take any photos at all. 

Unfortunately, it seemed to be a refurbished version instead of the ones that we remembered from the older days.

Remember the "dragon head" that is ever-so-iconic?

It is no longer there anymore. What's left is a grey cave in place where the dragon once stood. Kinda' sad just by looking at it:

From this:

To this :

Can any kind soul tell me what has happened to this poor dragon and the reason behind why it has to be removed?

(I did a little Google research and some had said it was removed due to "Fengshui" issues. Not sure how accurate is the source though.)

\

Marie treated me to Crystal Jade @ Holland Village after the Haw Par Villa trip for my birthday (Awww!):

She recommended the dumplings and sweet-and-sour noodles. The tastes were simply perfect. 

(Gosh, my stomach are grumbling just by looking at this photo! =_=)

My happy friend! :D

And she surprised me with this beautiful birthday gift - BAD 25 album. Gosh. A new favorite adding on to my small collection! I love you!

Thanks so much for the splendid day spent, my dear friend!

The friendship we share is incredible - And I only have one person to thank.

Yes, Michael Jackson! ;-)