Chinese Grand Prix: Shanghai's Racy Eentertainment

This one’s for the fast and the furious. Zipping cars, hairpin bends, and some of the world’s fastest car racers will ensure spectators have a ‘vrooming’ good time at the Shanghai International Circuit on April 14, which is being readied in preparation of the Chinese Grand Prix 2013. The auto race is one of the most exciting sporting events worldwide and this will be the third event of the season following the Australian and Malaysian Grand Prix. If you get your kicks from such adrenaline rushes, Shanghai’s just the place to be in!

Zip, Zap, Zoom

Till as recently as 2003, the venue of the race, which is now an exciting and world class circuit, was nothing but swampland. As incredible as it may seem, the Shanghai race track went from drab to dazzle in a matter of 18 months. Designed by German engineer and auto racer Hermann Tilke, the track’s layout is inspired by the Chinese character “shang” which means above or ascend. It also has Tilke’s characteristic hairpin bend, making it both reckless and exciting. With the world’s best and fastest cars racing ahead at breakneck speeds of 325km/h, the event promises a lot of thrills. For those who know their sport, here are a few pointers:

-   Try and get a seat close to turn 14 and we can promise you plenty of action.

-    Another good spot would be the first corner.

-   Of course the main grandstand is always a perfect spot for the views and this one promises to be particularly cheerful with a lively atmosphere and a wonderful view of the entire track – start to finish.

Get Behind the Wheel

The Shanghai Grand Prix will see some of the best and biggest names in the sport, adding to its thrill as well as its glamour. There will of course be last year’s champion Lewis Hamilton for McLaren Mercedes, as well as the world’s youngest F1 champion, Sebastian Vettel. Kimi Raikkonen, better known as the ‘flying Fin, is anticipated to add to the thrill on the race track and so will Red Bull’s Mark Webber. The smashing Michael Schumacher who returned from retirement in 2010 will also be present.

Photo Credit: llia Tsmykal / Wikimedia Go for a Spin

One of the most modern, slick and exciting cities in China, Shanghai vies for attention with other entertainment hubs such as Hong Kong, Macau, and the capital Beijing. While the Grand Prix in itself is an excellent way to spend your weekend, you should not miss the opportunity to tour the city of Shanghai. An international metropolis by all standards, it offers plenty of things to see and do. Go to the Bund at the Huangpu River, visit the Yuyuan Gardens for a serene zen-like experience, and also make a stop at the famous Jade Buddha temple. Besides these, there are a host of other exciting places to visit which include an Ocean Aquarium, the Wild Animal Park and Disneyland.  Shanghai also boasts a host of great museums and other cultural sites and activities which will keep you busy including a scintillating nightlife and superb shopping options.

Avoid the Speed Breakers

-    The track is located just outside Shanghai. Metro Line 11 will get you to the Shanghai Circuit Station.

-    You can also get a taxi, or take a private car.

-    While hard core fans may want to see the practice session on Friday, if you’ve bought the weekend passes you can see the qualifying race on Saturday and the final one on Sunday.

-     Race tickets are available online.

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