More foreign visitors, tourism dollars expected

More foreign visitors, tourism dollars expected at this year's F1 race

More foreign visitors and tourism dollars are expected for this year's Singapore Formula One (F1) Race.

This is according to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), which announced several lifestyle attractions as part of the Singapore Grand Prix (GP) Season.

International acts like Mariah Carey and Missy Elliott are already on the cards. Now they will be supported by other artistes - 400 in all - costing a cool S$5 million.

And revving up the entertainment factor, the Singapore Grand Prix Season will see a week-long period of F1-related events, ranging from art to parties.

This year, there will be something novel this year as well - Digital Nights@Orchard.

This is a showcase of new media and digital arts using the 3D technology, mapping familiar sights along Orchard Road.

Another feature - the Soundpark at ION Orchard - where the highlight is a 13-metre long Soundbox, replicates the sound of F1 cars whizzing by.

And all that din is expected to bring in the crowds and dollars, especially from overseas.

"About 40 per cent of the spectators this year will be foreign visitors. The season has gained traction; people are expecting and hearing the very exciting line-up that we have about the season, so we are already gaining a certain kind of reputation - to deliver an F1 experience that is quite unique to this part of the world," said Chew Tiong Heng, director of Destination Marketing at Singapore Tourism Board.

The board also expects about S$100 million in tourism receipts, up from S$93 million in 2009.

Part of the buzz will come from the two new integrated resorts.

The 2010 Singapore F1 race takes place from September 24-26.

-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-