Why Singapore Grand Prix is a Must-Attend for Australians

Our long time supporter, Illya Eliades (Jiji the cat), attended the Singapore Grand Prix and asked if we’d like to post his thoughts and comments about the race. Of course we jumped at the chance!

Illya lives in Australia and you know how we love our Australian friends and listeners. We’ve been so grateful for Illya’s support over the years and couldn’t do what we do without it. We think you’ll like this view from a TPF listener on what it’s like to attend the Singapore Grand Prix. Thank you Illya!!

Why We Chose Singapore
As Australians, we regularly attend the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne. This year, however, we decided to take our love for motorsport beyond our borders and experience a Grand Prix in another country. We chose Singapore. It’s the closest international Formula One race to Australia, making it a convenient option for our adventure. The fact that it’s a night race added even more appeal. There’s something truly magical about watching Formula One cars tear through the streets under the lights. The cars look absolutely stunning as they shimmer beneath the bright glow of Marina Bay, creating a unique and thrilling atmosphere that’s unlike any other race.

The Weather
Singapore’s tropical climate is part of what makes this Grand Prix special. It’s hot and humid, and you can feel the warmth even after the sun sets. Although it might seem challenging to some, the heat adds to the excitement and intensity of the race. It’s crucial to stay hydrated and wear light clothing, but the weather doesn’t take away from the fun – in fact, it enhances the unique night-race experience. It often rains, so a poncho is a must.

Arriving: Changi Airport

Changi Airport makes arriving in Singapore a breeze. Ranked as one of the world’s top airports, Changi consistently earns accolades for its efficiency and traveller experience. For Australians, no visa is required for short visits, but if you do need one, the process is made simple through the MyICA app, where you can handle visa applications and other travel-related services. As soon as we landed, we were welcomed by the airport’s famous cleanliness and organization. Immigration and customs were a smooth process; it literally took us just 1-2 minutes to clear customs, and before we knew it, we were on our way to the city. The airport itself is impressive, featuring lush gardens, stunning indoor waterfalls, a koi pond, a butterfly house, and Formula One-themed displays that immediately get you excited for the event from the moment you step off the plane.

Getting Around: Public Transport
Getting around Singapore couldn’t be easier. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is fast, affordable, and connects all the key areas, including Marina Bay. To make travel even simpler, we picked up a Singapore Tourist Pass, which offers unlimited rides on public transport, including the MRT and buses. The trains run approximately every 6 minutes, making it incredibly convenient to get around. We used the train to travel everywhere, and it was especially helpful during the race weekend. Whether you’re heading to the track or exploring the city’s sights, the MRT makes it stress-free. There’s no need for a car or taxi – just grab a Tourist Pass, and you’re set.

    Food
Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, and attending the Grand Prix gave us the perfect opportunity to indulge in some of the city’s best culinary offerings. Regardless of your budget, the food in Singapore is consistently amazing. Hawker centres like Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Food Centre are must-visits if you want to try iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and satay. For a true Singaporean experience, we couldn’t miss dining at Jumbo Seafood, famous for its Singapore chili crab – a spicy, messy, and absolutely delicious must-try dish, (make sure you order the little fried bread rolls to mop up the sauce).  Another highlight was Entre-Nous Creperie, located just around the corner from Raffles Hotel, where we enjoyed authentic French crepes in a cozy setting. Even around the circuit, there were plenty of food stalls offering a variety of local and international dishes, making it easy to refuel between sessions.

    Sites to Explore
While the Grand Prix was the main event, we also took the chance to explore Singapore. We extended our stay by 3 days, we visited famous landmarks such as Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Merlion. One of the highlights was the viewing deck at Marina Bay Sands, where we enjoyed breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Our race tickets even included access to the Singapore Flyer, the big Ferris wheel, which offered another incredible vantage point of the city’s landscape. As we strolled through the parks, we were entertained by the sight of wild chickens roaming freely, adding a unique charm to the surroundings. If you have time, take a stroll along the Marina Bay waterfront for stunning views or visit Sentosa Island for some beach time and more attractions. Singapore is packed with things to see and do, making it a great destination even beyond the race. We highly recommend the Garden by The Bay which were included with our Grand Prix tickets.

The Track: Zones and Entertainment
The Marina Bay Street Circuit is divided into different zones, each offering unique experiences. We had access to Zones 1 and 4, which provided a great balance of views and nearby amenities. Zone 1, located at the start-finish straight, is the least hectic area and offers plenty of shade, as the bars and food stalls are conveniently located beneath the grandstands. It’s also where you’ll find the Singapore Flyer, adding to the scenic backdrop.

Whether you’re in the grandstands or general admission, each area has its own charm, from tight corners to long straights where you can witness the thrill of F1 under lights.

  Off-track entertainment is another highlight of the Singapore Grand Prix. From concerts featuring top artists like Kylie Minogue and Lenny Kravitz to fan zones filled with simulators, games, and F1-themed activities, there’s never a dull moment. On-track entertainment includes support categories like the F1 Academy and Porsche Carrera Cup, which kept us engaged between the F1 sessions. However, I felt that the F1 Academy seemed a bit out of place, as the laps may be too long for such a slow series. In my opinion, they should feature F2 and F3 as they do in Melbourne for a more exciting experience.

Conclusion
For any Formula One fan, attending the Singapore Grand Prix is an unforgettable experience. Its proximity, combined with the unique night race, vibrant atmosphere, and the endless entertainment both on and off the track, makes it a must-see event. Whether you’re a seasoned F1 enthusiast or a casual fan, Singapore delivers an experience that’s truly one of a kind.