From Lockdown to Grand Prix: How Formula One Sparked My Solo Adventure in Singapore

Like many during the pandemic, Sarai found herself stuck at home, grappling with uncertainty. The weight of endless days indoors became suffocating. Then, a friend introduced her to "Drive to Survive: Life Behind Formula One," a breathtaking series that unveils the thrilling world of Formula One racing. What began as a casual viewing morphed into a captivating obsession. Sarai spent hours binge-watching the series, enchanted by the advanced engineering, fierce rivalries, and the electrifying excitement of the sport.

As the pandemic wore on, Sarai craved inspiration and connection. Attending the "Woman Evolve" and "The Called" conferences ignited her zest for adventure and life. Empowered by this renewed spirit, she considered gifting herself something extraordinary. The idea of attending a Grand Prix race took form. After evaluating various events, she discovered that the Singapore Grand Prix offered the best value. With a friend residing in Singapore, this trip seemed like the ultimate chance to blend her newfound Formula One passion with an adventurous solo journey.

Planning the Adventure

Bubbling with excitement, Sarai secured her ticket for the Singapore Grand Prix. Three months later, she boarded a flight from LAX with a layover in Tokyo. She chose Singapore Airlines, known for its excellent service, comfort, and safety. During her stopover in Tokyo, the cultural differences struck her. Everything was in Japanese, and during an amusing mishap, she accidentally ordered two waters instead of one. This lighthearted moment reminded her of the unexpected surprises that come with travel.

Once in Singapore, Sarai was met with the city’s reputation for cleanliness and strict regulations. She had thoroughly researched customs and guidelines to prepare for her arrival. Touching down at midnight, her excitement peaked as she navigated to her accommodation. Singapore is famed for its vibrant nightlife, and even in the dead of night, she felt an irresistible urge to explore. The humid climate has driven much of the city's design underground, creating a unique urban environment waiting to be uncovered.

The Grand Prix Experience

The Grand Prix ignited the city at night, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. Streets transformed into a thrilling racetrack, and Sarai's pulse quickened as she headed to this monumental event. Her favorite driver, Sergio Perez, was in the running for victory. The air buzzed with energy, and she felt a profound sense of belonging among other fans who shared her fervor for the sport.

"I remember the thrilling moments of the race," Sarai shared. "I understood the talent, the engineering challenges, and the strategies make the sport exhilarating. There are only 20 drivers in the world who compete in Formula One. It’s an elite sport." The event transcended from being just a race. It was an unforgettable experience filled with shared excitement and joy. The presence of DJ Marshmello amplified the festivities, turning the atmosphere into a vibrant celebration that enveloped the audience.

The entire event is a three-day event. The practice event, qualifying day, and race day. On race day, rain poured, but nothing could dampen Sarai's spirits. "I was drenched, but it didn’t matter," she said. The exhilaration of being at the Grand Prix, absorbing the intense speed and auditory thrill of roaring engines, made every drizzle worthwhile. This experience symbolized her journey from lockdown to adventure, illustrating the importance of pursuing one’s passions.

Embracing the Adventure

Sarai spent three days in Singapore, engaging in various tourist activities such as visiting Gardens by the Bay and having tea at the Raffles Hotel. But Singapore can be a very expensive city. Due to Race Week, the city was bustling with diversity. So she took the opportunity to meet up with a Grand Prix travel group that she had previously met on the internet.

Sarai’s solo trip to Singapore transcended the Grand Prix; it was also about seizing new experiences and stepping beyond her comfort zone. The city brimmed with attractions, from stunning skyscrapers to mouthwatering street food. She wandered through colorful neighborhoods, sampled local delicacies, and reveled in the cultural experience that defines Singapore.

Traveling solo may seem intimidating, but Singapore is an excellent destination for female travelers. Sarai felt empowered as she roamed the city, meeting diverse people and forming genuine connections. Each day brimmed with adventure and discovery, and she cherished the freedom that came with exploring at her own speed.

A Journey of Discovery

Sarai's journey from lockdown to the Grand Prix in Singapore encapsulates resilience, passion, and the joy of discovering new horizons. What began as a simple fascination with Formula One blossomed into a transformative adventure that reignited her spirit. The thrill of the race, the beauty of Singapore, and the friendships forged along the way contributed to a truly memorable experience.

On her return trip, Sarai explored the airport. The Singapore airport ranks among the most beautiful in the world, and she was so impressed by it. When asked what tips she had on visiting Singapore, she recommended, "Be sure to visit during a Formula One race event. The city's energy is unmatched during the event." Also, make sure to do your research, as Singapore is very strict. In addition to that, you can easily visit nearby cities. Take advantage of the opportunity to be in that region and meet a diverse array of people.

As the world continues to reopen, Sarai's story serves as a powerful reminder that the best adventures often arise from unexpected circumstances. Whether it’s embracing a new hobby, embarking on a solo trip, or stepping outside your comfort zone, welcoming change can unlock incredible opportunities. If you're feeling stuck or uncertain, take a page from Sarai's journey, dare to dream, explore, and craft your adventure. Who knows where it might lead you?

Here are some places to stay if you are ever in Singapore.