I’m sure, like me, your thoughts stray perhaps more than occasionally to that perennial question, “Where does the time go?” For certain, there’s no escaping the daily routine. Whether you’re working long hours building your career or holding the fort on the home front, time and energy seem to just disappear. Whether it’s the kids, classes, meetings, obligations, groups, general running about or your fitness regime, it all takes time, which seems to be slipping away at a rate of knots! So we’re taking a moment now to offer a gentle reminder: slow and steady wins the race. Take time out each day to unwind and re-energise. Reflect on what you have achieved and prepare yourself for what’s to come.

And what better way to do this than to grab a coffee and take a quick break with The Finder to discover what’s on offer to help you relax, reinvent or just make life a little easier.

 

This month there’s definitely no escaping the 2011 F1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix and once again we welcome the world to our doorstep. Bring it on! Whether you’re a die-hard rev head or an innocent bystander, the attention the Lion City receives – especially around the September 23-25 focal point, makes us realise what a truly international centre Singapore has become. An estimated audience of 150 million TV viewers is expected to tune in worldwide to watch the after dark thrills and, hopefully not too many, spills. And whether you support Italian Fernando Alonso, Aussie heart throb Mark Webber, Brit Lewis Hamilton, or any other member of the F1 drive pack, you won’t be disappointed with the on-track racing line up or the off-track entertainment. Global superstar Shakira and 1980s legend Boy George headline a terrific cast, which also includes legendary 80s’ crooner Rick Astley, as well as Filipina singing sensation and Glee starlet, Charice.

 

Check out too some cool tracks by circuit DJs flown in from around the world and get your groove on at one of the many A-list events including Amber Lounge with its sleek international fashion parades or the ultimate track party at The Podium Lounge poolside at the Ritz Carlton, Millenia. Organisers are offering The Finder readers ten double passes for Friday, September 23, so check out Singapore Secrets for entry details and insider tips on the must-do events. You can also meet an F1 organiser who shares personal experiences and challenges over the four years of service since the night race debuted in Singapore.

 

As you know, The Finder is all about convenience and value. So this issue we’re introducing SMS to WIN. A number of our regular sections offer you the chance to pick up some great prizes by sending us a standard text message without having to pay a premium to enter. Don’t miss Going Places where travel writer Sharmila Melissa Yogalingam explores some of the lesser known, quainter cities of China while Jetstar introduces flights to Beijing with a massive travel voucher giveaway. Just SMS and you could win!

 

There’s a wealth of information and diversity of choice in the september issue of The Finder, including a special wine, dine & gourmet roundup and professional advice from our regular finance, counselling and services’ contributors. So, take some time to discover what’s hot at The Finder. Life’s a marathon, not a sprint - unlike Grand Prix racing of course! Take time to smell those roses and maybe book in for a reflexology session or that massage you’ve been promising yourself for weeks. Remember time flies, especially when you’re having fun.