Strapped to a gently rotating 16-seater open-air gondola, towering 35 meters above ground, with our feet dangling in the air, we feel like we are floating above Sentosa.
On this Tuesday afternoon, we are trying out Singapore’s highest open-air panoramic ride at SkyHelix Sentosa, the latest 40m-tall addition to the collection of attractions at Imbiah Lookout. Just a short stroll from the Singapore Cable Car’s Sentosa station, the ride promises scenic 360-degree views of the holiday island as it rotates at the apex along a vertical helix-like structure.
Why
Touted as Sentosa’s first carbon-neutral attraction, SkyHelix’s energy-efficient design utilises minimal electricity for its operations. With the launch of this attraction, Mount Faber Leisure Group said it seeks to contribute to Singapore’s vision of becoming a top sustainable urban destination by developing unique, engaging and sustainable leisure experiences around the city-state’s stunning views and beautiful nature.
Jean Ng, executive director, attractions, entertainment and tourism concept development, Singapore Tourism Board, said: “As international travel gradually resumes, new attractions like SkyHelix Sentosa will enhance our attractiveness and signal to international travellers that Singapore is ready to welcome them. At the same time, it adds to the wide variety of family-friendly offerings that locals can enjoy.”
What
For each “flight”, guests will be seated in an open-air gondola for a 12-minute ride, which includes 10 minutes at the peak, during which the gondola will slowly rotate.
The ride offers scenic 360-degree sights stretching from Sentosa to the Keppel Bay area and the developing Greater Southern Waterfront.
Day and night afford different experiences. After sundown, energy-efficient LED lights illuminate the attraction, and riders can take in stellar views of the twinkling city lights dotting the urban landscape.
The gondola is completely powered by three electrical winches that are managed on-ground. Safety measures in place include an electronic safety mechanism to ensure guests are properly secured, emergency brakes, and power supply systems.
Visitors can grab a bite and drinks at the open-air snack bar before boarding and enjoy them on the ride. Food and beverage options range from juices and slushies, to cut fruits, soft serves, and pastries.
The snack bar also serves exclusive, ready-to-drink cocktails created by the team at Dusk Restaurant & Bar located at Mount Faber Peak. These include the Helix Sky Party, a refreshing tropical concoction; Helix Xpresso Martini, a rich and creamy blend of caffeine and alcohol; and The Helix Singapore Sling, an iconic Singaporean classic.
According to a PR spokesperson, there may be plans to introduce extended dining experiences to the attraction in the future. We imagine it would be a nice alternative to cable car sky dining for adrenaline junkies or those who prefer alfresco dining – with an exhilarating twist.
Verdict
The attraction combines a gentle round ride with the chance to soak in unparalleled vistas of Sentosa and its surrounding area, making for a fun and thrilling activity for the whole family. And yes, it makes a nice selfie backdrop too.
However, being perched 75 metres above sea level, with the breeze fluttering one’s hair and feet dangling free can be a tad unnerving for those with acrophobia.
We had pictured ourselves leisurely sipping on The Helix Singapore Sling while soaking in the ever-evolving vistas, but instead, found ourselves holding onto our companion, with our heart in our mouth and drink sorely neglected.
So if you are like us, with a fear of heights, remember: don’t look down.
Rate: S$18 (US$13) for adults and S$15 for children between the ages of four and 12. Each ticket will be bundled with a choice of one standard non-alcoholic beverage or an exclusive SkyHelix Sentosa souvenir.
Dates: 10.00 to 21.30 daily (last admission at 21.00)
Website: www.mountfaberleisure.com/skyhelix-sentosa
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) of the United Nations has spoken out against new blanket restrictions on travel imposed by governments around the world in response to the Omicron variant.
The call echoes the concerns raised by UNWTO members during the recent 24th UNWTO General Assembly, where countries from all global regions expressed their solidarity with Southern African states by calling for the immediate lifting of travel bans imposed on specific countries and for freedom of international travel to be upheld.
UNWTO noted the recent declarations of the United Nations secretary-general and the director general of the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the unfairness and ineffectiveness of blanket travel bans in respect to the countries of Southern Africa.
In light of recent developments, UNWTO has once again reminded countries that the imposition of blanket restrictions on travel is discriminatory, ineffective and contrary to WHO recommendations. Blanket restrictions may also stigmatise countries or whole regions, it said.
During the UNWTO General Assembly, member states and partners, including voices from international organisations and across the private sector, echoed WHO’s advice that travel restrictions should only be imposed as a very last resort in response to changing circumstances.
Furthermore, it was stressed that if restrictions are introduced, they must be proportionate, transparent, and scientifically-based. They must also only be introduced with a full appreciation of what halting international travel would mean for the most vulnerable, including those developing countries and individuals who depend on tourism for their economies and livelihoods.