A Weekend in Spectacular Gold Coast

Gold Coast, just a couple of hours by flight from Singapore, lies on the Southern part of Brisbane. Millions of visitors head there annually to bask in the sun at the gorgeous world-renowned beaches such as Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. Besides offering numerous water activities, Gold Coast also offers you the opportunity to get close to nature and you can do so at the more popular spots like Tamborine Mountain and Lamington National Park. If you’re one who loves to feel the adrenaline rush and a daredevil at heart, the theme parks in Gold Coast will definitely excite you. 

I visited Gold Coast for a weekend with my brother and a few friends before we flew to Melbourne and Sydney so, here’s our itinerary. Basically, we spent a day at Movie World and a day at Sea World. All four of my traveling companions enjoyed the thrilling rides at the theme parks but the highlight of the weekend for me was dinner at Gold Coast’s Fisherman’s Wharf.

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WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD

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This theme park brought back lots of familiar childhood memories for me as I grew up watching the Looney Tunes cartoon. As for my traveling companions, they go crazy over Batman, Superman and whichever superheroes you can name. We had lots of fun navigating ourselves around the theme park just to “chase” these movie-stars so we could have a photo with them. After posing for and snapping lots of shots, my traveling companions decided to start conquering the exhilarating rides.

It always amazes me that people eagerly trade in the calmness of being on ground level for the chance to be tossed in the air like a football. What fascinates me is that at some time in history, someone thought that people would enjoy this, and that person invented what must have been the first of these terrifying machines. I guess for my traveling companions and those screaming their lungs out on the rides, it is in particular the thrill and excitement of having survived the rides that keeps them going back for more. I don’t know if you think it’s a pity that I’m missing out on these sort of “fun” but I’ll never find the courage to conquer my fear of nerve wrecking rides such as roller-coasters, especially those that go in loops and spin you upside-down.

By late afternoon, my traveling companions were already boasting about the rides they’ve conquered such as the Green Lantern coaster which took them on one of the steepest drop in the world. They also enjoyed experiencing the adrenaline rush from Batwing Spaceshot, Arkham Asylum and the insane Superman Escape roller-coaster ride.

If you aren’t up for those horrifying rides, fret not as there are other activities that might interest you. You can sit back and relax while catching stuntmen performing heart-pumping actions in the Hollywood Stunt Driver 2 or go on an adventure in the brand new Rio 4D Experience. Your kids can also learn to drive at the Junior Driving School. Finally, don’t miss the magical Star’s Parade where you can see all of your favourite characters on Movie World’s famous Main Street. There’s something for everyone, from young to old, and it’s a great way to experience Hollywood on the Gold Coast in true star style.

Details
Address: Pacific Motorway, Gold Coast, Queensland 4210, Australia
Contact: +61 7 5573 8399
Opening Hours: The park opens daily from 9.30am to 5pm (except for Anzac Day and Christmas Day) while the rides begin at 10am.
Website: http://movieworld.com.au/
Ticket Pricing: $79.99 AUD ($84.69 SGD) per day

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FISHERMAN’S WHARF TAVERN

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I prefer counting memories instead of calories so my stomach space magically expands whenever I travel abroad. Fisherman’s Wharf is the place for you if you love seafood! They do serve other hearty dishes such as pastas and meats, like the pork ribs that we had, as well. Although the price is steep, the quality justifies every dollar. After feasting at the restaurant, stroll along the pier as it’s beautifully lit up at night. You can even head here in the evening and dine al fresco while taking in the gorgeous view of the sunset.

Details
Address: 60 Seaworld Drive, Gold Coast, Queensland
Contact: +61 7 5571 0566
Opening Hours: 10am to 10pm daily.
Website: http://fishermanswharftavern.com.au/
Email: fishermans@nhgg.com.au

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SEA WORLD

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Besides feeling like a Hollywood star at Movie World, you can also show your love for marine animals at Sea World. Catch the dolphin show, seal show and the action-packed Jet Stunt Extreme show. We had an amazing coastal adventure on this journey below the waves as we were intrigued by the humongous manta-rays at Ray Reef and ferocious-looking sharks at Shark Bay. 

You can also make friends with friendlier marine animals such as dolphins at the Dolphin Beach and adorable penguins at Penguin Point. They look super lovable as they wobble out of the waters after their swim and shake themselves dry. There is also the Polar Bear Shores where you get to watch polar bears showing off their swimming abilities and their magnificently white fur.

After spending time learning about the marine animals, bring your kids to meet Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and join Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo as they show off their rad ninja moves. I’m pretty sure your kids will be very entertained! Your kids can also help Dora the Explorer and friends find each other in a delightful live show. 

As for those who still find the need for thrilling rides, head to Castaway Bay and take on the Storm Coaster. The sounds of screaming passengers coming from each direction created butterflies in my stomach. Even the droning sound of the roller-coaster engines brings to mind scary imaginations. The sights and sounds made me feel like I’m stuck in a nightmare that ends with me jumping awake late at night, soaked in sweat. The only ride I took was Jet Rescue. Let’s just say this was the limit for cowardly me! With so many activities at Sea World, you really need an entire day for everything!

Details
Address: Sea World Drive, Main Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland 4217, Australia
Contact: +61 7 5588 2222
Opening Hours: The park opens daily from 9.30am to 5pm (except for Christmas Day) while the rides begin at 10am. On Anzac Day, the park and rides run from 1.30pm to 5pm.
Website: http://seaworld.com.au/
Ticket Pricing: $79.99 AUD ($84.69 SGD) per day

Expect changes, delays or cancellations of rides, attractions and show schedules due to inclement weather, preventative maintenance, refurbishment, or other operational reasons. Remember to put on more sunblock and preferably wear a cap and sunglasses as it gets really hot in Gold Coast, especially in the afternoons. Plan your trip well and know which theme parks you’re going to visit as you can save more money by getting the Day Pass, Super Pass, or Mega Pass.

The Day Pass costs $89.99 AUD ($95.28 SGD) per person and you’re entitled entry to any of the following 2 theme parks on 2 consecutive days (Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast or Paradise Country). With similar theme park options to choose from, the Super Pass costs $99.99 AUD ($105.86 SGD) per person and you’re entitled entry to any 3 theme parks on 3 consecutive days. The Mega Pass costs $109.99 AUD ($116.45 SGD) per person and is only available until 23 December 2016. You’re entitled entry to all 4 parks, 1 entry to White Christmas event at Movie World and another entry to Carnivale.

My weekend in Gold Coast was very well spent with my traveling companions. I always find that the time spent exploring destinations abroad too short and before I’ve had enough fun, it’s time to bid the place farewell. Wished I had more time to bask in the sun at one of their pristine beaches! Hope you’ll enjoy Gold Coast as much as I did.