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Urban oasis

By Li Jing | China Daily | Updated: 2012-11-26 14:04

Like a magic compartment, the cable car locks out the noise of the city and transports us into a secluded and serene atmosphere. The night view is nothing short of spectacular.

As we arrive at Sentosa Island, I notice how laid back it is compared to the city. So relaxing is the environment that peacocks are seen strolling proudly around as if they own the place.

Alongside rainforests and golden sandy beaches, the resort is home to an exciting array of attractions, which requires at least one whole day to explore.

In the mood for some fun, I choose to visit Megazip Adventure Park, which has a great reputation among thrill seekers.

Perched above Sentosa Island's mountaintop at a height of more than 70 meters, it offers a ride with the steepest descent in Asia.

As soon as I reach the top, I regret my decision. The rope course with a flying fox is much higher and longer than I expected. But obviously this is the fastest way of descending the mountain.

The official photographer catches my confused yet frightened facial expressions at the starting line of the course as I am secured with a rope around my waist.

I am supposed to hold a rope that is attached to a metal rail with my hands, which are sweaty from fright. With a hard push, I dive toward Siloso Beach, screaming until I am out of breath. Although the journey probably takes only a few minutes, it feels like forever. I almost throw up my breakfast. But it is exhilarating and I can still truly say, it is worth a try.

Adjacent to Siloso Beach are Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon.

The oceanarium is home to more than 2,500 fish of 250 different species, and it is also the research center for pink dolphins, white tip sharks and black tip sharks.

At a touch pool, guests are free to play with baby fish, including sharks. Gentle and shy, the sharks' skin feels rough, which surprised me.

For those who don't mind getting wet and who are brave enough, they can dive nose-to-nose with the grown-up sharks. I am not so courageous.

Instead, I choose to stand near the pink dolphins, also known as Indo-Pacific Humpbacked dolphins. One of the employees tells me the dolphins are born gray or white and turn pink when they are mature. I am pleasantly surprised when one of the mammals tail-walks toward me and I can't help giving it a pet on the head.