Bahrain Grand Prix

F1 has raced at the Sakhir circuit since 2004 when it made history as the first grand prix to be held in the Middle East.

The kingdom of Bahrain is one of the more liberal Arab states and as such, there’s a vibrant social scene around the city and alcohol is available.

The Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons are two stand-outs but for those wanting to stay close to the track, try the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa. It’s on the coast, 4.7km from the track and is popular with the drivers and teams.

There is minimal public transport in Bahrain so most visitors choose to rent a car and drive. Rental cars are good value if booked in advance and fuel is the cheapest I encounter anywhere in the world, about a quarter of the price you’d pay in Europe. Special F1 buses also run from several hotels to the track and back at pre-determined times.

The race starts at dusk which sees temperatures lower than during the heat of the day. The grandstands are situated around the main straight, the first and last turn and at the back of the paddock. There is no spectator access to the back part of the track and no general admission standing area tickets are sold, it’s all grandstand seating.

I rate the Bahrain paddock as the best of all the paddocks and at night, with the tower and paddock lit up, it has a magical atmosphere.