A Quick Trip to S.E.A. Aquarium and DTF's Xiao Long Bao for Dinner!

We got out as early as 5:00pm from Universal Studios Singapore as the park closed early that day due to a private event to be held that night. 7 hours is just not enough for USS that day as it rained from time to time so some rides were closed for awhile while we’re in line. But at least, we were able to cover all the best rides in the park.

After USS, we headed to S.E.A. Aquarium. By the way, we already bought our tickets online days before through AsiaTravel. They have discounted tickets and bundled tickets that could help you save more. You just have to print the voucher as there are designated areas near the chosen attraction, for claiming of the actual ticket. As for USS and S.E.A. Aquarium, the AsiaTravel booth is located at the basement parking, just take the escalator near the globe.

S.E.A. Aquarium is also located in Sentosa Island, just across the USS globe. Before you get inside, you’ll get to pass an exhibit showcasing some cultural pieces from various countries. I can’t exactly remember what the exhibit is for as we only rushed pass through it.

S.E.A. Aquarium is said to be the biggest one in Asia which houses a large collection of sea creatures, from manta rays and sharks to the smallest colorful sea creatures you’ll love to bits. The whole area was very spacious which probably could accommodate busloads of tourists. But if you don’t like crowds, opt to go here around 5pm as there’s only a reasonable amount of visitors during our time of visit.

Basically, this is a place full of aquariums in various shapes and sizes. There are digital boards available that could give a bit of info regarding the species. I read that there’s also a dolphin show but I guess they have an early time schedule for that. Just check in advance if you’re expecting to see that. And as always, you could take pictures but camera flashes are not allowed.    

The open ocean habitat is, for me, the highlight of S.E.A. Aquarium. A large glass viewing panel is situated in an open space area where you could sit on the floor, perfect time to rest your tired feet.

Honestly, I still prefer Ocean Park in Hong Kong, maybe because of the fact that they have penguins there. Haha! We finished touring the place in 1.5 hours.

How cool is this jellyfish!

Jellyfish is now one of my favorites!

For dinner, we dined at Din Tai Fung which is also just nearby S.E.A. and USS. It was already 8pm and their waiting list is still on the roll. They gave us a number and we waited it to be flashed outside which took us about 30 mins before we got our table. They also have this paper with their menu where you just tick off what you would like to have. We handed this back to them while we are in line so we only waited for about 5 mins for the food to arrive as we got seated.

They also have pictures to help you in choosing.

Hot tea is immediately served once you're in the table just like in other Chinese restaurants. The tea is free but a glass of water is not, they charge SGD .50 for one.  It was a busy Saturday night so you have to put some effort in getting the server's attention when you need something as they are busy taking orders and serving meals. Also, be mindful of what you ordered as they might forget to serve one of it and still be charged after. We are already in the middle of the meal and our shrimp and pork dumpling was still not in our table, so we did a follow up and had it served in less than a minute. Just remind them when it already seems too long.

When in Din Tai Fung, never ever forget to try their famous Xiao Long Bao! If you're like me that can't stand anything hot, poke a small hole first to let some steam off. It was definitely a feast in your mouth, with the tasty soup and meat. Perfect!

Steamed Pork Dumplings

Fried Rice with Shrimp and Eggs - S$12.80

THE Xiao Long Bao (starts at S$8 for 8 pcs.)

Everything was definitely good as expected in a Michelin rated restaurant like Din Tai Fung. Each order arrived fresh and hot. There's also a kitchen window where you can see how they prepare and cook the food which is a perfect proof of freshness.

Crispy Golden Prawn Pancake - S$8

Fried Rice with Pork Chop - S$11.80

For a group of 4, we spent less than SGD 80 all in all for six dishes to share which is just enough to satisfy our hunger. Not bad. Prices are still subject to 10% service charge and 7% GST.