The best non-track spots to catch the Singapore F1

It's the night race we've all been waiting for, the Singapore F1. But if you've been too busy, too useless or too poor get tickets, don't fear, there are plenty of options around town.

Helix Bridge

New year, new location, this year’s best free spot has to be the new steel and glass Helix Bridge with a vantage view of Turn 18 and 20.

Whilst two-thirds of the 280-meter long bridge belongs to the Singapore F1 Circuit Park and therefore is closed to the public, it is still possible to watch the race from a distance.

Walk in from the Marina Bay Sands side and well before the 8 p.m. flag-off, the bridge is estimated to withstand the weight of 6,000 to 8,000 people so be prepared to jostle with at least 2,000 other gawkers. There are also a couple of viewing platforms that afford an elevated view.

Free. Entrance near Marina Bay Sands, 10 Marina Bayfront Avenue.

Anderson Bridge

Where horse and ox carts used to cross Anderson Bridge a century ago, horsepower is the only thing that counts for these three race nights.

Lauded as one of the world's oldest Grand Prix track features -- it turns 100 years young this year -- this lattice and steel arched bridge is where the circuit cuts through the Singapore River between Turns 12 and 13.

Note: Viewing space for pedestrians is limited but if you are desperate enough, peering through the mesh fences and lattices will get you a view of the track.

Free. Connaught Drive (near the Victoria Concert Hall).

Marina Square Food Court

The long stretch of seating is perhaps the best-kept secret to viewing the Singapore F1 race on the cheap, but not for long.

Enter the food court and head straight to the end where the long wraparound balcony/seating area provides unobstructed views of Turns 14 -- known to be a bit bumpy -- and 16.

Free. #04-101 Marina Square, 6 Raffles Boulevard.

1-Altitude

Perched on top of the OUB building, 282 meters above ground and privy to 360-degree views of the city, you may not be able to catch a whiff of burning tires from Singapore’s highest bar or make out who’s accelerating on a chicane (unless you are armed with binoculars), but a view of the Singapore F1 cars racing around the flood-lit track is guaranteed.

Three giant screen TVs will ensure you won’t miss all the almost crashes and slips round the Singapore Sling (Turn 10).

S$68 (24 September), S$78 (September 25), S$88 (26 September); inclusive of two drinks. Level 63 OUB Centre, 1 Raffles Place. Tel +65 6438 0410.>

Tian Fu Teahouse

Located on the 60th floor of UOB plaza, Tian Fu Teahouse and its menu of 40 Chinese teas is the spot for teetotalers.

While the restaurant does not have floor-to-ceiling windows, they’re large enough to give you a decent view of all the race action.

When you need a break from peering at the track, the waiters put on quite a show, artfully dispensing cups of tea from a bronze kettle with a meter-long spout.

From S$3.50. #60-01 UOB Plaza 1, 80 Raffles Place. Tel +65 6535 6006.

Mandarin Oriental

There is nothing like watching the race in a private space and not having to stand shoulder-to-shoulder, face-to-armpit with everyone else.

Splurge on a premier harbor room at the Mandarin Oriental which overlooks all the Singapore F1 racing action around Turn 16 and 17.

For some non-committal viewing, the Axis Bar will host its own party for all three-race nights (7-10 p.m.) with all the champagne, wines, beer and canapés you can get inside yourself during the event.

Premier Harbour Rooms, S$2,500 per night (minimum two-night stay). Axis Bar, S$480 (September 24-25), S$580 (September 26).
Mandarin Oriental, 5 Raffles Avenue. Tel +65 6338 0066.

Carlton Hotel

Located at the other end of the track, the Carlton Hotel oversees a portion of the track between Gates 3 and 4.

While the premier elite rooms only offer a partial view of the circuit, it is the most wallet-friendly hotel option around the circuit.

S$780 (excluding taxes) for a night, no refunds or cancellations available. 76 Bras Basah Road. Tel +65 6338 8333

Check out our other Singapore F1 stories here.