On the radar: Studio City, Macau

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Macau’s non-gaming attractions for families have taken a giant leap forward with the opening of Studio City on the Cotai Strip. Prudence Lui gets a ride on the integrated resort’s movie-inspired showstoppers

Why
Macau has been gradually diversifying its tourism products to wean its reliance on high rollers but no landmark recreational facility has come online since the House of Dancing Water’s launch in 2010. The debut of the Hollywood-themed, studio-concept Studio City resort has injected a new crop of entertainment-driven attractions like Golden Reel and Batman Dark Flight, making Macau one step closer on its bet to transform itself into a mass-market tourist destination à la Las Vegas.

What
The Batman Dark Flight experience is virtually a fly-through over Gotham City with a close-up look at Batman combating and cornering the usual villains from Rogue’s Gallery. The world’s first 4D flight simulation ride from the Batman film franchise can accommodate up to 72 participants seated across three rows.

For a breath of fresh air, hop onto the Golden Reel straddling the hotel’s two Art-Deco towers on the 22nd floor. This figure-eight Ferris wheel, the first of its kind in the world and the highest in Asia, whisks passengers up to a height of 130m as they sit securely in 17 Steampunk-themed cabins, each fitting up to 10 guests.

How
The Batman Dark Flight wins my heart. We are first escorted to Wayne Industries for a presentation on its newest flying vehicle before beginning the six-minute ride. Albeit a short one, the ride is worthwhile because unlike other 4D experiences, I don’t have to wear any spectacles that block my sight. Throughout the action-packed, digitally animated experience, my five senses are completely evoked when moving up and down, along with additional effects like wind and smell blowing over the riders.

For Golden Reel, which takes around 15 minute around a gourd-shaped track, dusk marks the best time to go as visitors can observe the stunning sunset before night falls. As there are no high blocks surrounding the complex, this guarantees a panoramic view of the South China Sea on one side and Hengqin island on the other.

I also like the seating arrangements as there are single seats scattered on different corners of the cabin, giving passengers a chance to grab the best vantage points. As well, don’t miss stepping on the cabin’s square glass panel floor, which offers another view of the breathtaking vistas below.

Verdict
Studio City’s new spectrum of products takes Macau’s entertainment facilities to a new level and is likely to be showstoppers for kids and adults alike.

Name Studio City
Rates Batman Dark Flight: MOP150 (US$18.80) for adults and MOP120 for children; Golden Reel: MOP100 for adults and MOP80 for children
Contact details
Tel: (853) 8869-8888
Website: www.studiocity-macau.com

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