MANILA, Philippines - It seems that the stage is all set for Singapore’s 3rd Formula 1 Grand Prix. The track has been laid out, the lights are going up, the grandstands are being reconstructed. All F1 fans need to do now is figure out where to watch, where to stay and what to do after the engines cease blaring on race nights.
This year, the city state is more ready than it’s ever been to ensure that visitors get the most out of the Singapore F1 experience from September 24th to 26th – what with hotels around the Marina Bay Street Circuit offering special packages and menus, five million Singapore dollars worth of entertainment from all around the world and pumping hot parties all weekend long.
Watching the Race
There are at least 11 different ticketing categories for the races which are one of the few street races and the only night race on the F1 calendar. There are 9 options for the grandstand tickets and 2 types of walkabout tickets – each with varying degrees of accessibility within the Circuit Park.
The most popular category so far is the Premier Walkabout ticket (SG$398), which allows fans to walk around all four zones of the Circuit Park and check out the assortment of entertainment that will be offered over the weekend.
You can enjoy the same accessibility but with the added luxury of grandstand seats if you book tickets at the Pit or by Turns 1, 2 or 3 for S$1,288.
The most pocket-friendly category is the Zone 4 Walkabout at S$188 which would allow you access to where most of the entertainment will be.
However, if true exclusivity is what you’re after, best to book a hospitality suite. These lounges offer air-conditioned trackside luxury, private grandstands, an all-day international menu, multiple LCD screens, a premium open bar and personalized service from the Singapore GP Suite Ambassadors. Be prepared to shell out between S$3,500 to S$8,000 per head. (For a complete list of ticket categories and prices go to www.singaporegp.com.)
Entertainment at The Circuit Park
Singapore GP has ensured there will be no lulls in entertainment on F1 weekend. Ticket holders will have free access to The Singapore Flyer. Catch a flight on the world’s biggest observation wheel to take in unmatched views of the City.
There will be a freestyle trials motorbike stunt show on the Bay Grandstand’s floating platform. The four Italian sopranos known as the DIV4S will enchant race-goers with classics and soothing arias. Also from Italy, Studio Festi will mount a show to thrill the senses with gravity-defying acts, acrobats, pyroctechnic displays and symphony music.
The party mood will intensify with the sexy sounds of Samba care of Rhythm Carnival and the Warriors of Brazil – world-class masters of Capoeira.
And just for ladies, SGP is bringing in the ripped abs and bulging biceps of The Chippendales.
But it is the main F1 concert that everyone looks forward to. Beyonce and The Black Eyed Peas were past performers. We can’t wait to hear who’s coming this year!
Hotels
The Stamford Swissotel is the tallest hotel in Southeast Asia but most importantly it offers one of the most expansive views of the Marina Bay Street Circuit in the city. Located at Turn 9 of the track, The Stamford is at the heart of the action. You get to enjoy an exclusive bird’s eye view of the race from the comfort of your plush guest room. Race week rates for a circuit-facing room start at SG$1,150++ per room/night.
Also in the Marina Bay area is the Pan Pacific Hotel. It is the shopper’s dream as it is directly connected to the Marina Square mall and the Suntec City shopping complex. For more discerning travelers, you can opt for a room on the club lounge floors which offer a 24-hour butler service, access to the elegant Pacific Lounge which serves complimentary breakfast, afternoon canapés, evening cocktails and has a well-stocked round-the-clock pantry.
The most iconic of all hotels these days is the Marina Bay Sands. Just a few months old, Sands now dominates the area’s skyline. It’s a city in itself really. The complex includes a casino, convention center, theater and soon a museum. The open-to-the-public Sands SkyPark observation deck (which looks like a boat parked on top of the hotel’s three towers) offers breathtaking vistas of the city.
Restaurants
Being a melting pot of cultures and a truly international metropolis, Singapore offers a wide range of cuisines.
If your palate is craving fine dining, it would be a culinary sin to miss Chef Jonas Lundgren’s seven course Degustation Set Menu at Equinox in The Stamford Swissotel, while some of the best Cantonese food can be had at Hai Tien Lo at the Pan Pacific.
Arab St. is a quaint part of town marked by rows of pre-war shop houses. It’s the best place to buy textiles, carpets, perfumes, smoke a sheesha or tuck into some great Middle Eastern food like at Alaturka.
The 818 Durian Stall along Telok Kurau Rd. recently became famous since it was reported HK tycoon Stanley Ho sent his private jet over just to pick up a hefty load of the exotic fruit for his personal consumption. The durians are imported daily from Malaysia and their unique flavor and texture do not disappoint.
Party Places
Amber Lounge is the official F1 after party organized by Tamara Ecclestone, Bernie’s daughter. The event never fails to attract the biggest names in town – not to mention some of the drivers. This year it will be held at Temasek Reflections near Conrad Centennial Singapore.
Last year, it was held at Stereolounge in Pan Pacific. Stereolounge remains the club of choice for many local celebrities. With cozy, sophisticated interiors, a sound system worth half a million US dollars and its signature organic mushroom pizza.
Another option for partying is New Asia at the Stamford. Four of the world’s leading spin masters will be holding court there from September 23rd to 26th.
The Pump Room in Clark Quay is where you should head to if you want a slightly more relaxed vibe. Known for its microbrewery and headlining bands, it’s a beer lover’s second home.
Dempsey Hill was once a British Army barrack but today it’s a charming enclave of restaurants, bars and shops. Have a night cap at Camp and order their quirky “Tiffin Punch”.
For Kids
Most of the entertainment for F1 weekend has been plotted out for older race goers but if you’re bringing a younger set with you, not to worry. Resorts World at Sentosa has a plethora of things to keep little ones busy. Universal Studios of course is the latest attraction. Tots can enjoy the Shrek and Madagascar attractions while bigger kids will get their thrills on rides like Revenge of the Mummy and Battlestar Galactica.
The Festive Hotel in particular was built especially with kids in mind. There’s lots of art and nature to explore on the premises.
With all of that to eat, see and experience, F1 weekend in Singapore is sure to race by – at about 298 km/h. Are you going to join the fun?