Not one of the 101,000 millionaires (according to the World Wealth Report 2013) in Singapore? Neither are we. But with F1 just wrapped we’ve got something of a taste for the high life—so we went looking for it. And while in this town it’s easy to chalk up six-figure bills, you can also enjoy luxury for a lot less—and we know just where to go.

Get on Board

Sea Bear Westport 130
Sail the high seas in style on the 40-meter, $14.8-million Sea Bear Westport 130 once owned by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. The super yacht, which boasts a snazzy sky lounge complete with a wet bar, gaming table and a Jacuzzi, spreads over three decks and five rooms, and accommodates up to 40 people for cruising trips. A four-hour charter costs $12,000 upwards—not including catering ser vices—via Aqua Voyage.

310 Signature
Take to the waters without busting your credit card limit on yacht charter Pure Lust’s 310 Signature. Small it may be (accommodating only up to 10 pax), but the well-appointed cruiser is no shabby speedboat: interiors are fitted in the lap of luxury with glossy wood, plush leather seats and carpeted flooring. Even better are the affordable rates, with a five-hour charter out to sea setting you back just $899 onwards on weekdays.

The Suite Life

Marina Bay Sands' Chairman Suite

Marina Bay Sands and Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
The world’s wealthiest will feel right at home in Marina Bay Sands’ $17,000-a-night Chairman Suite, set high on the 54th floor of the multi-billion-dollar property. It has two living rooms, four bedrooms, an exercise room, a study and 24-hour butler service. An alternative is the Ultimate Sanctuary package at Shangri-La Hotel, starting from $35,000 for a two-night stay. It’s pricier than putting up at MBS, but you get to officially name an orchid, and enjoy personalized meals, a wellness consultation at CHI, The Spa, personal shopping and unlimited booze from the hotel’s Champagne Bar.

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Live it up on a budget (well, sort of) at one of The Ritz-Carlton’s luxurious Club Premier Suites (from $820 for a night), which boast killer views of the Marina Bay skyline (from the room’s marbled bathrooms, too). Guests staying in any of the hotel’s suites also enjoy exclusive access to the newly-renovated Club Lounge, where Champagne breakfast, afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres, desserts are served alongside free-flowing Champagne, wines, beer and cocktails.

Sitting Pretty

Herman Miller Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
No other chair says you’ve made it like this quintessential classic designed by Charles and Ray Eames, exhibited at art galleries like MoMA and most recently in town at the ArtScience Museum. $6,799 from Xtra.

Elcid Lounge Chair
Based on the original design by the Eames duo, this modern replica ($1,999) by Picket & Rail does the job equally well. Plus, only hardcore furniture and design enthusiasts will know the difference.

Drink Up

Credit: John Yuen

The Jewel of Pangaea
Trust the world’s most expensive club to concoct Asia’s most expensive cocktail. Local mixologist Ethan Leslie Leong is the man behind Pangaea’s $32,000 creation that contains gold-flaked Richard Hennessy cognac and comes topped with a GIA-certified triple ‘X’ diamond from Mouawad.

Cocktails at Maison Ikkoku
Thankfully, it won’t cost you an arm and leg to try Leong’s other delish drinks at Maison Ikkoku. Leong himself recommends the collaborative agnès b. 1941 ($28), a garden-appropriate drink with fruity-green notes, and the salted caramel martini ($28), perfect for ice cream lovers.

The Right Fit

Gym and Personal Trainers vs. Ritual
Personal trainers and gyms are notoriously cagey about sharing their rates. Your luxe option is a personal trainer and the cheaper one (short of just working out by yourself) is large group classes. Ritual, on the other hand, offer something in between: what they call “semi-private training” which translates to no more than 10 people per class, guided by two trainers. Rates vary depending on what you’re trying to achieve.

A Cut Above

Kim Robinson
We’re talking about the celebrity hairstylist, who counts A-listers like Kate Moss and Carina Lau as clients, here, not his namesake studio (#02-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6738-8006). For red-carpet-worthy hair, go for a cleanse-cut-finish session with the man himself at $2,680.

Kantaro
The director of hip salon Pact +Lim is your go-to hairstylist for edgy yet versatile styles. His cuts are $100 for men and $150 for women, but the jetsetter is only in town for one week a month.

Feast of Eden

Joël Robuchon Restaurant
For a blow-out dinner, this venue at Resorts World Sentosa can’t be beat. At this Singapore outpost by the most decorated chef in the world—with 26 Michelin stars under his belt—the 14-course degustation menu ($488) features expertly executed plates such as roasted frog legs on spelt risotto, as well as crisp-skinned suckling pig with gratinated cannelloni.

Otto Locanda
A steal at $60, the three-course degustation meal at this lovely Italian spot spotlights seasonal ingredients. Head chef Marco Violano creates a different menu ever y day based on what’s fresh, but some past specialities include saffron and cauliflower soup with pan-roasted scallop, plus char-grilled beef tenderloin with spinach and potato cake.

Spa and Away

Harmony Banyan
Slip into a state of utter bliss with this indulgent three-hour treatment ($620 upwards) at Banyan Tree Spa. The pampering session consists of a therapeutic exfoliating scrub, a top-to-toe massage by two therapists and a luxurious bath soak to melt away stresses.

Thai Thai Aroma
One of cool spa Nimble/Knead’s signature massages, the two-hour treatment ($143) combines traditional Thai techniques like gentle stretching with an aromatic rubdown, giving you the best of both worlds. Want a longer session? Opt for the heavenly 180-minute combo package ($218) that comes with a massage, scrub and mask.

Bag It

Hermes Birkin
Arguably the holy grail of luxury bags, the Birkin is notorious for its long waiting lists, unavailability and hefty five-figure tag. As you’d expect, the elusive style icon (in any imaginable variation) can’t be readily bought from any Hermes store in Singapore. But if you’re dead-set on buying one directly from the French label (the one pictured costs $25,000), try your luck in Paris or online—with insurance, no less.

Hermes Birkin
Can’t quite stretch your budget to own the Birkin? Multi-label store The Luxury Galleria offers interest-free instalment plans of up to 36 months for a guilt-free purchase. If you don’t mind a second-hand piece (and saving some cash while you’re at it), there’s a couple retailing at new online store ChicStash for about 30% off its usual price ($16,500).

Suit Yourself

One-off Customized Suit by Kevin Seah Bespoke
What better way to make an entrance than by owning your own bespoke garment? Not only is this piece made-to-measure by local master tailor Kevin Seah himself, each piece will be sent to close friend and collaborator, French street artist Kongo, to be illustrated with the latter’s signature graffiti strokes. The cool price tag? US$35,000. Get measured at Kevin Seah.

Customized Jacket by Benjamin Barker
At $650 upwards for both jacket and pants, Benjamin Barker’s customized two-piece will do the job equally well. Never mind that they’re not one-offs. Spruce up the suit with additional trims like grosgrain ribbons and monogram embroider y for an additional $10.

Dress Up

Club 21 Style Services
For anyone too busy making money to go shopping, there’s Club 21’s fashion experts to turn to at $300 per consultation (or free with a minimum spend of $1,000). Your personal styling session is carried out in the posh Club 21 Style Services Suite, which features a main lounge, spacious fitting rooms, a dining room and a VIP powder room that houses a M.A.C makeup bar to get primped in before an event.

Topshop Personal Shopping
Figuring out what to buy at Topshop can be over whelming. And that’s precisely why you’ll appreciate the UK label’s free personal shopping service. An appointment ranges from a half-hour quickie to a three-hour fashion party. Email [email protected] or call 6733-4608 to reserve a slot.

Table Manners

Velvet Underground
You’d think tables at ultra-luxe clubs like Pangaea would cost way more than one at ever yone’s favorite superclub Zouk, but in fact the minimum spend ($1,500) for a table at Velvet Underground’s members lounge is on par with that at Sabrina van Cleef Ault’s safari-themed playground. Plus, it affords you instant scene status as a member—which, despite Zouk’s long reign, is still priceless.

Kyō
With guest DJ lineups that rival Velvet Underground’s in terms of curation, slick underground club Kyō can clearly hold its own. It’s not the usual beer-y CBD watering hole, either, with lots of Champers and specialty Japanese whiskeys and sakes on the drinks list. Get a table for just $600 on a weekend night.

Get Crafty

Sopra Cucina & Bar's Beer 32
Even the nerdiest craft beer geek might baulk at the $36 price tag on Sopra Cucina & Bar’s Beer 32. Fortunately, it’s for a 750ml bottle (wine-sized, in other words) from the elusive Italian microbrewer y 32 Via dei Birrai. It comes in five different varieties, too.

Jungle Beer's Kiasu Stout
More affordable, but still brewed with real TLC, is the Kiasu Stout ($9) from local brewers Jungle Beer, which recently won “Best Beer in Singapore” and “Best Beer in World” at the Asia Beer Awards 2013. Find the 330ml bottles for $9 at The Good Beer Company.

Stretch Out

Lotus Limo
Channel your inner Vinnie Chase (and bring your entourage) in one of Lotus Limo’s cars. Part of the IndoChine Group, they offer 8-seater Chrysler 300 Super Stretch cars, fitted with TVs, DVD players, fiber optic mood lighting and the always-important vanity mirror. A three-hour package goes for $888 ($250 per additional hour), while the special 10-hour package will set you back $2,500. Bonus: bring your own booze (for an $80 corkage fee, naturally).

Uber
It’s not quite the same, but tech upstart Uber’s iPhone and Android app connects you with your nearest available driver, as an alternative to waiting around for cabs that never come. This on-demand premium limo ser vice is charged by time and distance and, while it isn’t cheap (from Gillman Barracks to Dempsey around midnight on a Wednesday clocked in at around $20), it certainly makes a change from riding in a Sonata. You have to sign up for an account to book, but then that means easy fare splitting with friends as well as a totally cash-free experience. Well, may be “free” is the wrong word.

Fly High

Paramount Business Jets
Forget first-class seats. The way to travel luxe is via a private jet, and consulting firm Paramount Business Jets takes you to any where in the world at a moment’s notice—you can be up in the air in just four hours from the time you book. Charters are priced according to flight hours ans aircraft type—a trip to Bangkok from Singapore on a Turboprop King Air 350 (up to eight people) will cost you around USD29,200 ($37,100) upwards.

JetSuite
Singapore Airlines' business or first-class travelers flying to Los Angeles, San Franciso, New York, Newark and Houston (SIA’s US gateways) can charter America’s private jet operator JetSuite transfer to other US states at an exclusive rate (USD3,428 or $4,332 upwards, for destinations within two flight hours. Not holding a business or first-class ticket? Check out JetSuite’s daily deals when you’re traveling from state to state in the US for even cheaper rates (from only USD536, or $677 each way for the whole jet).

Osaka has long been known as the “kitchen of Japan” for its expansive food culture, but it’s also slowly emerging as the country’s hub for creativity with new museums, innovative boutiques and cutting-edge galleries.

Creative Capital
The recently opened multi-purpose facility, Knowledge Capital (3-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, +81 6 6372-6427), situated in the north building of the new Grand Front Osaka development, is packed with hotels, shops, malls, bars as well as creative spaces. The six-floor compound is home to members-only co-working space Knowledge Salon comprising small-scale offices and conference rooms, as well as a theater, convention centers and a public laboratory. Apart from these great facilities, Knowledge Capital also provides staff known as “The Communicators” who can help launch your ideal project by putting you in touch with industry insiders. For instance, if you want to develop an innovative running shoe, the staff can connect you with designers and manufacturers to help make your dream a reality—or, at least, a prototype. These prototypes are then showcased at The Lab, an open laboratory that allows you to gather real feedback from members of the public in order to improve and refine your product.

Knowledge Capital is also packed with more than 20 exciting concept stores, or what they call Future Life Showrooms, featuring many famous brands. The Asics Running Lab, for example, offers 3D foot mapping services in order to fit you with the perfect running shoe. Meanwhile, at the Mercedes-Benz Connection you can find a café and a “Trial Cruise” service that allows you to test-drive almost 20 of the German motor manufacturer’s models. Just remember to prepare your international license in advance. On top of these, there are many more cool fashion, living and furniture shops.

With all that technology, you’re bound to work up an appetite. And true to form, this venue also offers up a glimpse into the future of food. For starters, there’s the Smart Camp concept restaurant that grows all its vegetables in the City Farm, sat just next door on the sixth floor. By peering through the restaurant’s large windows, diners can see just how the vegetables are grown in an advanced temperature-controlled room. Choose from healthy fresh-veggies-only or low-carb choices, all overseen by Kiyomi Mikuni, a chef renowned for his unique take on French cuisine. Another can’t-miss food experience here is eating farmed tuna at Kinki University Fisheries Restaurant. The university fisheries lab is renowned for its bluefin called Kindai—the first ever raised in captivity from the egg—which it serves up here. Kindai is being touted as a healthier and more eco-friendly option, prized for its lower mercury content, as well as fattier, more delectable taste. Book ahead or prepare to join the queue as locals flock there for lunch (11am-3pm) and dinner (5-10:30pm). If you have an unquenchable thirst, there’s a selection of bars that are open until 4am.

Making Mama
In Osaka, you can even get creative with the most humble of meals, instant noodles. The Instant Noodle Museum (8-25 Masumi-cho, Ikeda-shi, +81 7 2751-0825. Open Wed-Mon 9:30am-4pm) tells the story of the invention of the world’s first instant noodle product by Momofuku Ando in a small shack in his the backyard in 1958. On top of this, visitors can also create their very own one-of-a-kind cup of noodles. There are two workshops here. The first is the Chicken Ramen hands-on workshop, which requires booking in advance. The less time-consuming option is heading to the My Cup of Noodle Factory where you can decorate your own noodle cup and even concoct your own flavor. Entrance is free but you have to pay JPY500 ($6.50) for the Chicken Ramen workshop or JPY300 ($3.90) for a noodle cup.

Block Party
For those who want to try their hand at small but cute art pieces, look no further than Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum (1-6-4 Namba, Chuo-ku, +81 6 6211-0303. Open Tue-Sun 11am-6pm). This small museum is hidden amid the bustling area of Namba, a popular spot for shopping and food. Here, you’ll find the original woodblock prints of Kamigata Ukiyoe that trace back to the Edo Period (1603-1868). Most of the works on display were created for the famous kabuki actors of that era. You can also join a small workshop to learn how to make your own print under the supervision of Takano Seiko, the museum’s director. Admission is JPY500 ($6.50) while workshops range from JPY500-1,000 ($6.50-13) for beginner and advanced courses and must be booked three days in advance. Apart from your own artwork, you can also purchase souvenirs in the form of notebooks, bags and small art pieces.

In the Frame
Another must-visit for art in the city is the National Museum of Art (4-2-55 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, +81 6 6447-4680. Open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm). With its emphasis on contemporary art, the museum brings to town many world-renowned exhibitions, the latest comprising works from Pablo Picasso. The museum currently houses over 6,000 art pieces, spanning nihonga (Japanese-style painting) and sculptures to industrial designs from local artists. The normal admission fee is JPY420 ($5.47) and but special exhibitions vary in price. Before visiting, be sure to check the exhibition schedule.

Hip Hood
Osaka’s main shopping streets are all found in the Shinsaibashi and Namba areas, but if you’re looking for something more creative and fashionable, head to the Minami Horie or Kita Horie area. Once known for its many lumber dealers, this neighborhood is now home to stylish fashion boutiques, hip cafés and cool furniture shops. Just across the street is Amerikamura (American Village), a vibrant enclave of shops and restaurants where East-meets-West. Trendy young locals love to gather here to chat and shop amid the narrow graffiti-strewn streets. The area is a great place to wile away an afternoon in Osaka, whether it’s taking photos of the weird and wonderful architecture or simply people-watching.

ESSENTIALS

Where To Stay

InterContinental Osaka (3-60 Ofuka-cho, Kita-ku, +81 6 6374-5700). This newly opened hotel at Umeda Grand Front Osaka is situated conveniently in the middle of the business district. Rooms range from $322-1,308.

Cross Hotel Osaka (2-5-15 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, +81 6 6213-8281). This top-ranked hotel from Tripadvisor is nestled amid Osaka’s most famous shopping street, Dotonbori. Rooms range from $178-341.

Getting There

Direct return flights with Jetstar start from around $510; and if you take the red eye (departing 22:20, arriving 06:00) you can hit the ground running on arrival—just perfect for a long weekend.

Exchange Rate

Art
Perhaps surprisingly for an event dominated by loud noise and macho moves, this is a great time of year for art, with some exciting exhibitions taking place throughout September. Among the most relevant (since it was specially curated for the race), popular British artist Paul Oz (Sep 19-Oct 20) presents his signature large scale “explosive” paintings for his self-titled solo show at Icon Gallery.

Meanwhile, art enclave Gillman Barracks is celebrating its First Anniversary through Sep 28–with late-night openings and an array of free performances from the likes of avant-garde collective Strangeweather Movement Group.

A is also for apps, and there are two official ones this year: the SingTel Pitstop Mobile App (which lets you share pictures of the race in a fan gallery) and the Singapore GP Mobile App. Frankly though, you only really need the I-S App, available for both your Android phone and your iPad.

Beautiful people

F1 attracts glamorous, good-looking types like no other weekend of the year. “Always dress to impress,” says Pangaea’s [famed party girl] Sabrina Van Cleff Ault. “Dress for speed and heat. It’s going to be a crazy hot weekend so you have to be prepared for anything. Bling is the best way to flash.” And it’s not too late to join in the fun: online luxury retailer shopthemag.com will be setting up a Fashion Pitstop pop-up store (#07-37, 1003 Bukit Merah Central, 6635-1561) from Sep 19-21, carrying desirable one-off pieces from the likes of Malaysia’s famed Khoon Hooi and Indonesia’s Johnny Ramli. You’ll need them to stand out from the crowd. Call 6635-1561 or email [email protected] for guest-list.

The bold and the beautiful will also be found at the Amber Lounge, either on the front row or sashaying through the crowds during the haute couture fashion show by local designer Frederick Lee, choreographed by famed stylist Daniel Boey.

Champagne

What’s F1 without some Champers? Get ahead of the drivers by popping a few bottles before the finishing celebrations. Check out our list of dining deals and parties for special events and menus, but if you just want to get straight to the good stuff head over to Clarke Quay’s Aquanova, where G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne will be going for $99 nett per bottle.

Dining deals

As is now standard for F1 weekend, tons of restuarants are going all out with special menus and promos. The big one this year is undoubtedly over at Pan Pacific (right in the heart of the action, no less) where daytime pop-up brunch party Bacchanalia Brunch: GPSS Edition is taking place. The bash features delish canapés and dishes from Bacchanalia, accompanied by cool music courtesy of DJs Jesse Marco, Stephen Day and Sungus. Another solid options: Wooloomooloo and Balzac Brasserie’s Singapore Grand Prix 2013 Special Promotion (available Sep 15-26), which comes with a promotional sausage platter paired with a glass of wine at just $18.

Exclusive appearances

It’s one of the hottest topics of gossip over race weekend: who’s been spotted where and when. “We do not usually know which celebrities will attend until they show up,” says Podium Lounge’s organizer Robbie Hoyes-Cock. “But rest assured that the majority of F1 team, drivers and team-owners will turn up at the Podium Lounge as they stay at The Ritz-Carlton due to its proximity to the Paddock Club.”

Over at 1 World Music Festival, there will also be special appearances by non-performing A-listers. “We have tables reserved for the usual slew of celebrity guests who will be making appearances at the Aire Lounge area,” says organizer Gregory Gumo. “It’s a pop-up club on festival grounds where guests can rub shoulders with the performers as well as the rest of the big names coming to town."

Free Rides

Just in case you didn’t know, rides on the Singapore Flyer are free for all ticket holders. Suffice to say, the view will be stunning.

Grand Theft Auto V

It’s the gaming event of the year and probably the closest most of us are going to get to racing recklessly around a city. (The provocative ad they took out on our cover last week gives you a pretty good idea of what’s in store…) It’s been five years since the last one, so expect queues out the door when the latest instalment of one of the most popular (and notorious) video games of all-time launches on September 17. It’s available for both Xbox 360 and PS3, priced at $79.90-189.90 from Comics Connection. Find out more at its website.

Headline acts

This year’s headliners at the 2013 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix Concerts might just be the best yet. As well as The Killers, you’ve got Rihanna, Justin Bieber and Big Bang—hey, even they’re not your thing, there’s no denying they’re huge. Plus familiar old names like Tom Jones and, ahem, Bob Geldof (why he’s playing on the Saturday and not the Monday so he can sing about it, is beyond us); alongside smaller but no-less-interesting names like Laura Mvula (Friday Sep 20, 8:30pm, Zone 4) and Owl City (Monday Sep 23, 6:15pm, Zone 4).

“Each year we try to curate a broad span of music and entertainment to cross as many age groups and genres as possible,” says organizer Michael Roche of Midas Promotions. “Killers is our rock act, Rihanna our diva female pop act, and Justin Bieber and Owl City for the younger market. A huge amount of work has gone into securing this line up and the production is going to be stunning on the massive Padang main stage.”

Iggy Azalea

Move over Nicki Minaj. Iggy Azalea is the new It girl in hip hop, and this blonde model from Down Under (yes, really) with the filthy mouth is one of our top picks at the 1 World Music Festival.

"I" also stands for illusions, with acclaimed UK magician Dynamo showcasing his awesome tricks on Saturday Sep 21, 7:55pm, Zone 4, 10pm, Zone 1 and Sunday Sep 22, 6:30pm, Zone 1. The guy’s crossed the River Thames on foot, so let’s see what he does with Marina Bay.

Jetting away

After five years of F1 it’s possible you’ve just had enough. If that’s the case, then why not use the weekend to get away? Affordable return flights (going out Friday, back Sunday) are still available to Hong Kong ($288 upwards with Tigerair), Bali ($204 upwards with AirAsia) and Bangkok ($304 upwards with Jetstar).

The Killers

There’s no question where we’ll be on the Saturday evening: front of the Padang crowd singing along to Mr. Brightside. Still a hot commodity in the rock ‘n’ roll scene, with their latest album Battle Born named 2012’s second best by Rolling Stone mag, this is Brandon and the boys’ first ever appearance here so expect something really big.

Last minute staycations

One of the smartest ways to get in on the action without actually getting in. At the Pan Pacific Singapore, the Race in Style room promotion (from $1,100) is on September 20-22, including access to the Pacific Club on level 38, which offers 360-degree views of the race track.

Other trackside options are The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore—where the Singapore Night Race deal goes for $1,250 from Sep 21-23—and Mandarin Oriental, where F1 rates start from $895. Further from the race track, Carlton Hotel from Sep 19-22.

The Main event

It’s easy to forget, what with all the ancillary events and antics, that there’s actually a race happening. If you’re not a year-round follower of F1 here’s what you need to know: As we go to press (ahead of the Italian Grand Prix on September 8) Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel (last year’s winner in Singapore) leads the Drivers’ Championship by a whopping 46 points over Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso and 58 over Mercedes’ pretty boy Lewis Hamilton.

There’ll be six races to go after Singapore, so it’s all still to play for, but expect the chasing pack to be desperate to hunt down the seemingly invincible Vettel. Hamilton has said in interviews that he expects Singapore to be a turning point. “I think we’ll be back to being very competitive, or more competitive when we get [there]. The circuits from there are more twisty and more higher downforce, compared to Spa and Monza which require a specific package, which either works or doesn’t, and you are stuck with it.”

Night & Day Grand Prix Ultra Lounge

The latest addition to F1’s party series (see our round-up of parties) will feature celebs and jet-setters lounging at luxuriously-furnished gallery The P’enthouse by the P’ Club Group, and boasts a massive live telecast of the race as well as an art exhibition, with donations going to the Make-A-Wish foundation.

One World Music Festival

This brand new addition to the weekend looks set to give the more-established events a run for their money. Snoop Dogg’s performing for the first time in town, and so is Iggy Azalea alongside a stellar DJ lineup which includes Moby, Orbital (read our interview with Phil Hartnoll), N*E*R*D’s Chad Hugo and Cosmic Gate at the nearby Marina Barrage. “It’s going to be an unparalleled festival” says organizer Gregory Gumo. “We’ve gotten big names from each genre to perform on the same stage and amazing production to complement the acts—basically non-stop entertainment.”

Parties

Parties and F1 go hand in hand. And this year, there are more than ever (see F1 Singapore Grand Prix parties). And if you don’t want to pay, scroll down to "V" for VIP guestlists to learn how to score an entry.

Quay to discounts

Ticket-holders get special treatment over at Clarke Quay, including free drinks at Playhouse (#01-08 Blk. C, 6305-6768, www.playhouse.sg) and discounts off your bill at tons of other spots (visit Clarke Quay's dedicated microsite for more). There are race promos for non ticket-holders, too, as well as special appearances by Mexican race driver Sergio Perez (currently twelfth in the Drivers’ Championship) and two-time Formula One World Champion Mika Hakkinen on Sep 18, 6:30pm at the Central Fountain.

Rev-Up @ Orchard

The annual shopping celebration held from Sep 13-23 will feature pop-up stalls selling F1 merchandise, free gift-with-purchase deals at several malls including Orchard Central and Wisma Atria, fashion shows, music performances by local acts and a go-kart race event at *SCAPE.

Steve Aoki

The king of electro is back. Sure, the guy was recently caught using pirated software to synch his tracks for a recording with Linkin Park, but who else can work up a crowd like he does? Aoki spins Sep 21, 10pm at Ep!c Pit Stop Saturday with Steve Aoki at Zouk.

Ticketing

In case you haven’t purchased your tickets to the main event yet, here are the latest updates: premiere Walkabout tickets, which give you access to all four zones and the main concerts, are sold out. Your next best option is to go for the Zone 4 tickets ($148-178), which will still give you access to the main concert and a limited view of the racing action. Depending on your budget, there are different tiers still available—$48 gets you a regular seat at Empress Place (although still limited to Zone 4) or go for the Turn 2 Grandstand tickets ($1,288) which give you a decent view as well as access to all zones. Log onto the website for updates and more details.

Unwinding

All that action taking its toll on you? There are a few special ways to unwind. From Sep 19-22, head to nearby The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands to do some late-night shopping and indulge in special dining privileges (look out for exclusive chef appearances). Following that, tee-off at the Marina Bay Golf Course during its Weekend Night Golf Special from Sep 21-22, with the course open from 4:30pm till very late. And then chill out at Bar Stories at their Off Your Tracks nights (Sep 20-21, 7-11pm), where there will be Spin the Rave Wheel games and trivia alongside bespoke race-inspired cocktails.

VIP guestlists

Getting on a guestlist is easier said than done, though if you’re “in the company of a celebrity, F1 Driver or team owner, royalty, supermodel or an ambassador of some sorts, you might just get in,” says Robbie Hoyes-Cock, organizer of Podium Lounge. Our advice: make lots of friends at the race track, especially anyone who could pass for a model. You never know.

Weish

One of Singapore’s brightest talents and most electrifying live acts, the girl known to her parents as Chew Wei Shan (and a familiar face at local live joints Timbre and Blu Jaz) is performing her unique brand of acoustic-pop on Friday Sep 20, 5:15pm & 7:15pm, Zone 1; Saturday Sep 21, 7pm, Zone 4; Sunday Sep 22, 7pm, Zone 4. Read our interview with her.

Xtended opening of the MRT

Getting around town over race weekend can be a real pain. But thanks to late night opening of the MRT (trains ran until 1am last year) you needn’t worry about getting stuck in traffic or waiting for a cab that never comes. Don’t forget there are six different stations serving the various circuit zones.

You

Look after yourself, you hear? Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes (getting around the various zones involves a lot of walking) and ear plugs (“survival kits” which also include a poncho usually go for $2 on site), and drink plenty of water (you’re allowed to take one bottle of up to 600ml into the circuit—anything bigger is banned, along with laser pointers, Frisbees and—no joke—animals). Plan your exit strategy carefully (crowds start building at the exits nearly half an hour before the end of the race) or else you’ll be stuck there till late. And then treat yourself to a foot massage the next day. One of our all-time favorites is Orchard Way Beauty Shop in the seedy environs of Orchard Towers (#04-03, 400 Orchard Rd., 6737-1758). Ask for Sam—the man is a magician and only charges $38/hour.

Zones
There are four zones in the F1 circuit (view the map at www.singaporegp.sg/), but Zone 4 (covering The Esplanade, the Padang and towards Raffles Place) is where you need to park yourself. That’s where the main action is taking place.

Amber Lounge
A stylish after-party that’s not to be missed is this ultra-luxe shindig, a perpetual hit among the city’s trendiest and richest. There will be a live music performance by Swedish House Mafia vocalist John Martin, alongside a fashion show by haute couture designer Frederick Lee.

Bed Invasion: 50’s Miami White
Expect a raucous party with DJs Yolanda Be Cool and Eddy Frampton on deck duties. This is the first instalment of a series of on-location parties around Asia from Bangkok’s iconic Bed Supperclub, after they shuttered their home venue on August 31.

Ep!c Pit Stop Saturday with Steve Aoki
The king of electro is back, working up the crowd at Zouk. Who cares if the guy was recently caught using pirated software to synch his tracks for a recording with Linkin Park? There’s no disputing his ability to throw a happening party.

F1 Sky Grand Prix Diamond Party
Themed three-day party, with Sep 20 being the Diamonds & Champagne night where revelers stand a chance to win a sparkling diamond worth $20,000, while Sep 21 is Fashion Night with a fashion show and a stylish mixes by DJs Michael Venezuela and Sebastian Ferarri. Sep 22 is the Post-Race party with music courtesy of DJs Angie Vu Ha and Love.

Full Steam Ahead - Pre-Race Blowout
Singapore’s only full moon beach party returns with a stellar roster of local DJs as usual. Great food, giant beach balls, beer pong, and of course the iconic infinity pool will make for a crazy cosmic night.

I Am Hardwell
The acclaimed Dutch DJ takes on Fort Canning Park with his hot electrohouse numbers.  Organized by the good folks at Zouk.

Johnnie Walker Circuit Lounge
One of the sassiest and most coveted parties during F1. There will be a beautiful people, bespoke cocktails, lucky draws (prizes include a style makeover and a whiskey-pairing dinner) and chic music by DJs Mel DeBarge and Posso.

Score invites through purchase of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Limited Edition bottles at bars like Avalon, Kyo and The Butter Factory. Register the code after purchase on www.facebook.com/JohnnieWalkerSingapore.

Night & Day Grand Prix Ultra Lounge
The latest addition to F1’s party series will feature celebs and jet-setters lounging at luxuriously-furnished gallery The P'enthouse by the P' Club Group, and features a massive live telecast of the race and an art exhibition, with donations going towards the Make-A-Wish foundation.

Night Race Weekend at Ku De Ta
Hip hop DJ Latin Prince and sassy supermodel-DJ Willy Monfret will work out the crowd with their trendy dance tunes alongside Ku De Ta residents.

Pangaea Presents Formula 1 Weekend 2013
Three nights of hedonistic fun with trance and House in the house, with DJs Sam Young, Vikas and Erok spinning on Sep 20, Patrick Oliver, Vikas and Erok on Sep 21, and Max Vangeli on Sep 22.

Para//el presents Michael Mayer & Roxy
Co-owner of the respected label Kompakt, German-born DJ Michael Mayer is equipped with the right arsenal of deadly tunes for some serious techno mayhem. Joining him is Roxy from South Korean club Octagon, at her Singapore debut.

Podium Lounge
Superstar DJs Seb Fontaine and Sander Kleinenberg headline this always-epic event, alongside live performances by Cuban percussionist Pablo Calzado together with jazz musician Greg Moore. This year they're teaming up with luxe London club Boujis for even more fun (and models!). You can also look forward to nightly fashion shows from Holstad & Co (Fri 20), Gnossem (Sat 21) and Willow & Huxley (Sun 22) featuring international models around the Ritz-Carlton Pool followed by a live charity auction

Circuit de Catalunya
The restaurant-bar pumps up the volume with three nights’ worth of parties, with American DJ Latin prince dropping hip hop and commercial dance tunes on Sep 20, French DJ Willy Monfret spinning sexy house on Sep 21 and our very own Andrew T with electro-house on Sep 22. Sep 20, 11:30pm; Sep 21, 10pm; Sep 22, 10pm.

Formula 21 Race Weekend Specials
Enjoy extended hours of live music performances just for the race weekend, alongside drinks and food platter combinations for just $40++ and spirits from $90++ per bottle at Halo’s rooftop area.

Carlton Hotel
Carlton Hotel is offering 20% off best room rates (from $464) from Sep 19-22. A little farther away from the race track, but still a good deal for a downtown hotel nonetheless.

Conrad Centennial Singapore
Smack along the F1 race circuit, Conrad Centennial offers great views for sure. Room rates for the F1 period start at $1000 a night.

Fullerton Hotel
Situated just above the circuit's hairpin turn at Anderson Bridge, Fullerton Hotel also offers an F1 package (from $900) including access to the hotel’s private rooftop viewing platform, plus free flow of Champagne, cocktails and food.

Grand Park City Hall
Stay at Grand Park City Hall between Sep 19 and 22 (from $450 a night) and get $50 dining credit. Also, visit The Bar at Coleman and get your second bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label at half price.

Marina Bay Sands
This hotel giant needs no introduction; very limited rooms are still available for the race period (from $900). Enjoy fantastic views from atop the Sands SkyPark.

Marina Mandarin Singapore
Stay at this trackside hotel from Sep 19 to 22 (from $850 per night) and enjoy exhilarating views, plus complimentary buffet breakfast for two and internet access.

Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental is within walking distance of the F1 Pit Building, so you'll definitely be in on the action. Room rates during the race period start from $895.

Pan Pacific Singapore
The Race in Style room promotion (from $1,100) is on September 20-22, including access to the Pacific Club on level 38, which offers 360-degree views of the race track. Guests can also enjoy the dining promos at in-house restaurants Edge, Keyaki and Hai Tien Lo.

Raffles Hotel
Choose among Classic, Deluxe and Premium three-day F1 packages (from $2167 a night; book by Sep 8), all of which come with tickets to the race, shopping and wellness vouchers, butler service, daily breakfast, plus entry to New Asia Bar.

Swissôtel The Stamford
Get an eyeful from their track-facing rooms (from $1350) from Sep 19 to 22, plus buffet breakfast for two and internet access. Non-track-facing rooms are also available (from $670), if you plan to head down to the race anyway.

Bacchanalia
Over at Pan Pacific Singapore, the folks behind Bacchanalia will host their daytime pop-up brunch party Bacchanalia Brunch: GPSS Edition on September 21, 1pm ($100-10,000 for package for 20 inclusive of buffet brunch and drinks). The bash will feature delish canapés and dishes from the French-Asian restaurant, accompanied by cool music courtesy of DJs Jesse Marco, Stephen Day and Sungus.

Balzac Brasserie
For their Singapore Grand Prix 2013 Special Promotion (available September 15-26), get a promotional sausage platter paired with a glass of wine at just $18.  

Bar & Billiard Room (Raffles Hotel)
On September 22, the restaurant will offer a real feast, the F1 Sunday Brunch—with live chef stations preparing dishes such as foie gras with alfonso mango, lobster ravioli with foie gras, roasted welsh rack of lamb, US Omaha beef tenderloin, jamón ibérico (flown in from Spain) as well as three kinds of oysters (Belon, Fine de Claire and New Zealand)—served with Champagne Billecart-Salmon (from $228).

District 10 Bar & Restaurant
The restaurant-bar’s got five cocktails ($16 each) for Formula One weekend in September: Webbers Red Bull, Ferrarinrochor’s, Tim Mercedes, The Lotus, and Mc Claren Shake. They’ve also come up with 10 bar bites to go alongside including fried buffalo chicken wings ($14), calamari with wasabi mayonnaise ($14), sautéed tiger prawns ($15), and jamon iberico mini baguette sandwiches ($22).

Edge
The For Dine for the Price of Three deal (from $58/person) on September 16-22 to celebrate F1 includes a buffet of Chinese, Malay, Indian, Singaporean, Thai and Japanese cuisines from seven open kitchens, prepared a la minute. There’s also a special F1 brunch ($128) on September 22, including G.H.Mumm Champagne, Cloudy Bay sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, and draft beer.

Guy Savoy
This French gastro temple will host an exclusive dinner, Singapour fête le Champagne (September 19), working with nine top Champagne houses to pair a five-course menu—including dishes like oyster in gelée, and artichoke black truffle soup—with bubbly from $948. There’s also the F1 Grand Prix lunch (September 22) from $55 including summery recipes such as lamb shank in saffron and carpaccio of dorade. Plus, the fine dining establishment is offering an early dinner three-course meal (6-7pm) at $130 during the F1 weekend.

Hai Tien Lo
The F1 Set Menu (from $108) on September 20-22 includes six courses of dishes such as barbecued Beijing duck, double-boiled abalone and baked king prawns. There’s also a Yum Cha buffet ($128) with recipes like double-boiled Buddha Jumps over the Wall and braised whole abalone, plus all-you-can-eat on dim sum (think steamed pork dumplings and deep-fried prawns with wasabi mayonnaise).

Lobby Lounge (Pan Pacific Orchard)
They’ve got a trio of Gourmet Grand Prix Burgers from September 20-22, which you can with fries and beer for $29. There’s the Pit Stop—an organic charcoal bun with wagyu patty, kurobuta bacon, avocado and monterey jack—Re-Fuel (multi-grain brioche with teriyaki glazed pork belly, with pork jerky and spicy pork floss) as well as Accelerate, comprising a fleur de sel bun with Moroccan-spiced Tasmanian lamb patty, caramelised pineapple, hummus and feta.

OCF
The F1 menu here (September 20-21) includes four courses of sophisticated dishes (think Bressan pigeon, Hokkaido scallops and sea bream with herb emulsion) for $148.

Keyaki
At the F1 Weekend Brunch ($60 or $120 with G.H.Mumm Champagne, Cloudy Bay sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, and draft beer) on September 21-22, dig into an eight-course Japanese set brunch including sashimi, chawanmushi, yakimono, teppanyaki, agemono, shokuji and dessert.

Tiong Bahru Bakery
The ever-popular bakery has got a special F1 Apple Lemon Jelly Tart ($7) for racing season from September 19-22.

Waku Ghin
Chef Tetsuya Wakuda will serve lunch for the F1 weekend (September 20-21), a degustation menu priced at $250.

Wooloomooloo Steakhouse
Not only will you be able to see the race from the window of this restaurant, they’re offering a hospitality package that includes free flow canapés including lamb cutlets and jumbo shrimps, an open bar with Champagne, fine wines and premium spirits and, just in case you’d rather watch the race up-close, a big screen telecasting the F1 race. The deal is on September 20-22 and goes for $450-650.

G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut at $148 nett per bottle, G.H. Mumm Rose at $158 nett per bottle and G.H. Mumm Magnum at $280 per bottle all night. Through Sep 21. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988, www.zoukclub.com.

Free-flow Veuve Clicquot champagne at $300 nett. Sep 20-21, 10pm-1am. Kyō, #B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, 133 Cecil St., 8299-8735, www.clubkyo.com.

G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne at $99 nett per bottle. Sep 20-22, available all night. Aquanova, Blk. C #01-09 Clarke Quay, 6305-6768, www.aquanova.sg

Giant three-litre G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne at $800++ per bottle all night. Sep 20-22. Tanjong Beach, 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Sentosa, 6270-1355, www.tanjongbeachclub.com.

Free-flow champagne with a special Grand Prix Weekend Brunch Buffet at $198++ per person. Sep 21-22, 11:30am. Ku De Ta, Marina Bay Sands Skypark, 1 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7688, www.kudeta.com.sg.

Champagne Billecart-Salmon Brut Reserve with brunch at $228++ and Champagne Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé with brunch at $248++ per person. Sep 22, noon. Bar & Billiard Room, 1/F Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd., 6412-1816, www.raffles.com/singapore/restaurants-and-bars/bar-and-billiard-room.

A bottle of Moët & Chandon Champagne with cover entry to Podium Lounge at $258 nett per person. Sep 20-22, 10pm. Poolside, The Ritz-Carlton Millenia, 7 Raffles Ave., 9459-5211, www.podiumlounge.com.

G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Vintage 2006 at $138++ per bottle with a complimentary serving of tapas. Through Sep 30, available all day. Atrium, Lobby Marina Square, Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Blvd., 6826-8240, www.panpacific.com/singapore.

Bochinche

Offering quality Argentinean fare by chef Diego Jacquet, Bochinche's creations—such as braised pig head croquettes with quince and grilled octopus and tuna mayo—are best shared and washed down with Latin-inspired concoctions like the Chimichurri Bloody Mary.  

Bull and Butcher

The brainchild of Trilogy Hospitality, the 120-seater Bull and Butcher serves classic steakhouse fare like Australian wagyu beef rib eye, as well as seafood delights such as Mediterranean sea bass, irresistible desserts, and a wide selection of Australian vino labels.

Candlenut

Local chef Malcolm Lee is the mastermind behind this Peranakan (Straits-Chinese) restaurant at Dorsett Singapore. Expect homemade, wholesome comfort food and try dishes like beef rendang (spicy beef chunks) and kueh pie tee (pastry tart filled with prawns and vegetables).

Ding Dong

Crafted by chef Ryan Clift of the ever-popular Tippling Club, the menu at Ding Dong brims with rustic Southeast Asian treats, paired with unique Asian cocktails and boutique wines, which can be enjoyed at the bar on the second level.

Hashida Sushi

The son of master sushi chef Tokio Hashida heads Hashida Sushi, the first overseas offshoot of the well-known Tokyo outlet of the same name. Indulge in seasonal nigiri sushi and other Japanese specialties (like cold sake) at this Zen, sophisticated space. 

Lime House

As Singapore’s first Caribbean eatery, Lime House’s dining concept is simply refreshing. Feast on hearty portions of Caribbean classics like curry goat with rice and peas, and unusual desserts like the deconstructed pina colada, which consists of coconut custard with pineapple compote and lime sherbet.

Pidgin Kitchen & Bar

Bite into not-so-ordinary Southeast Asian grub by chef-owner Adrian Ling. Treat your tastebuds to innovative creations like foie gras with rojak sauce (sweet-spicy peanut gravy), risotto served with frog legs, and kaya (coconut jam) bread and butter pudding.

Tamashii Robataya

Recently opened Tamashii Robataya believes in using only the finest Japanese ingredients available. Whet your appetite by watching chefs whip up your orders, from grilled meat to rice bowls topped with fresh seafood, before tucking in with a cup of Japanese sake.

The Black Swan

This swanky restaurant oozes a ‘Great Gatsby’ vibe and boasts a perfect mix of old and new. Order American classics with a modern twist, such as beef tartare and baked bone marrow, as well as drinks like the Golden Parachute—Black Swan’s rendition of an old fashioned, concocted with 15 year old bourbon, manuka honey and apricots.

The Market Grill

Inspired by old-school New York diners, The Market Grill serves up perfectly grilled meat and seafood made with the specially imported “woodstone” charbroiler. Must-tries include the chargrilled whole lobster, CW cod fish burger, and the wagyu rump.