Singapore Grand Prix boosts UK visitors

The Singapore Tourism Board has announced a 3.2 per cent rise in UK visitors to Singapore during September 2008 compared with the same period last year, the positive result being largely attributed to the 2008 FORMULA 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix.

With around 34,000 arrivals, the UK growth made it one of Singapore’s strongest performing markets during the month, reinforcing its position as the largest European source market for Singapore sending 495,693 visitors in 2007.

Globally all eyes were on Singapore on 28 September for the first ever Formula 1 night race and Asia’s first street race. In addition to the race itself, around the 5.067 km Marina Bay circuit, Singapore’s Grand Prix Season included a wide range of complementary events including the Singapore River Festival, Singapore Motorshow 2008 and Singapore Beer Festival.

Divya Panickar, Singapore Tourism Board said: “The impact of the FORMULA 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix has been a tremendous boost for Singapore, especially from the UK market, at a time when we are experiencing a challenging global economic environment.
“Singapore is inspiring more travellers to visit by hosting world-class events such as the Grand Prix, which Singapore will host for the next four years, as well as undertaking a number of substantial development projects. 2009 and 2010 will see the launch of two exciting integrated resorts – Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa – as well as Singapore’s first reservoir in the city with a range of water-based activities, a new International Cruise Centre and Gardens by the Bay, all helping to attract visitors who may not have previously considered the destination,” adds Ms. Panickar.

A surge in total visitor arrivals from all overseas markets from 25-30 September, peaking at 30.3% growth from 25 to 27 September, is also attributed to pre-Hari Raya traffic, one of the three colourful autumn festivals that celebrate Singapore’s unique ethnic heritage. The Hari Raya celebrations that mark the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan in October begin with the September ‘light up’ that attracts many visitors to the city.

Another major sporting event comes to Singapore in January 2009, with the Volvo Ocean Race, the premier offshore yachting event and a first for a South East Asian city. This race takes place over nine months, covering nearly 39,000 nautical miles of the globe’s most treacherous seas, raced over 11 legs. The 2008/09 race will visit 12 ports around the world and incorporate eight inshore races and eight ‘pro-am’ races.

Singapore will make history again in 2010 when it hosts the inaugural Youth Olympic Games from 14-26 August. This 12-day event is expected to draw 3,200 athletes, aged between 14 and 18 years and 15,000 participants including athletes, officials, spectators and media.