SINGAPORE: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) expects to hit its target estimate of 9 to 9.5 million visitors this year, down 10 per cent from the 10.1 million in 2008.

This is despite the impact of H1N1 on arrival numbers and the global downturn.

Undaunted, STB is also going ahead with a new awards platform to reflect Singapore's growing position as a business, education and healthcare travel destination.

The awards will be given out across 28 categories to recognise individuals and organisations that help contribute towards a total Singapore experience.

Nominations for the Singapore Experience Awards are open till August 15. Winners are expected to be announced by the end of the year.

STB said the focus is to recognise not just local but foreign contributions that go into making Singapore a tourist experience.

Aw Kah Peng, CEO, STB, said: "We're not really saying that this award is only for Singaporean companies. It's for any Singapore-based companies. Likewise, you could have a hotel which is part of an international chain and they could very well be participating in this." - CNA/vm