Singapore is set to host its seventh annual Grand Prix this September along the Marina Street Circuit. The Singapore Grand Prix is the only night race in the world and the only street race in Asia. Activities around the race will showcase Singapore’s art, culture, shopping, dining and night life activities, and will also feature live concerts in the vicinity of the circuit.
Addressing the media at an event in Mumbai recently, Pradeep Israni, Assistant Manager Western India, Singapore Tourism Board revealed that the highlight of this year’s entertainment activities will be the Robbie Williams concert to take place on one of the larger podiums set up for the Grand Prix. Furthermore, the National Museum of Singapore will showcase the country’s racing history.
“The race witnessed a footfall of 81,509 visitors per day in 2013, the highest we have ever recorded since the races began in 2008. Our off track entertainment has been planned on a large scale this year, with nine stages set up for performances. The circuit itself is broken into four zones to ensure easy viewing for the visitors around the tracks,” explained Sarah Martin, Director of Operations & Security, Singapore Grand Prix.
For Indians, the Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Grand Prix are promoting packages that suit every budget, as well as a special offer for a possible upgrade to green room tickets for one lucky customer who purchases a pair of tickets for the race.
Singapore Airlines has stepped in for the first time to take the place of Title Sponsor for the Grand Prix. It has designed various packages, which include flight costs and accommodation, starting at Rs. 75,000 for the race, and is offering discounts for other passengers. David Lau, General Manager India, Singapore Airlines mentioned that the airline has appointed seven preferred agents to sell these packages in India.
“Force India is doing great on the circuit so interest from the Indian market has been strong. We are, in fact, drawing in repeat visitors as well as new ones now. 60 per cent of the traffic for the Grand Prix is still domestic, but the remaining does fly down from other countries for the race,” said Chang Chee Pey, Executive Director – South Asia, Middle East & Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
Speaking about the India market year round, Chee Pey added that in 2013, Singapore welcomed 9.34 lakh Indians, and are expecting to surpass these numbers this year as bookings have been positive. The Royal Caribbean, he said, is adding two more ships to sail from Singapore, which he believes will draw more crowds.
