F1 GP Races

[SAP]

Looking to try get a package for the a GP weekend and need some info. For a first race to go to which track do ye guys recommend and what area of the track is the best? Where is the best place to go to get tickets, hotel info, transport, etc..? Any input from peoples experiences at race weekends would be really helpfull.

Oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR

[jgodfr]

As a long time F1 fan and one that has been to only 2 tracks, (Spa & Nurburgring) and as a A1GP fan from the beginning, I would say try catch an A1GP race.

Why? I have been to Spa 3 times and although the circuit itself is one of my favorites to watch on telly, I think the tickets of F1 are way to expensive for what you get. (Mind you, this is my opinion and other may think of it differently) a pit-walkabout will set you back 2500 Euros. So this is usually only done for corporate guests who, most of the time, have no interest in racing at all (save the odd one of course). You will not be able to get anywere near any of the drivers, not even the backmarkers, let alone the front runners.

When you go to an A1GP race, the tickets costs only a fraction of what you pay for an F1 ticket. (To compare, a grandstand ticket for Spa will cost between 261-468 euro for raceday, while a top grandstand ticket for the A1GP raceday at Zandvoort only cost 150 euro and that includes a pit walk!) There are signature sessions where all the A1 drivers show up. And the 2 race I went to (Brands Hatch in 2005 and Zandvoort in 2006) both had a fantastic atmosphere.

For me, I will not go to any F1 race anymore (unless the prices go down drastically, or when elephants start to fly) but I will go to the A1GP race at Zandvoort next year and if at all possible I'll try to go to Brands as well.

So, this is my 2cts. I hope it helps you make a decission.

A happy new year 2U2.

Greetinx
Johan
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[SAP]

Thanks for the advice but I don't follow A1GP much. I'm really thinking of going for Spa. Do u buy your tickets in a package? if so where do you recommend, online or through a travel agent?

[SkidMarks]

As this is your first visit, I would recommend going with an organised tour group, such as Page & Moy. They should be able to ensure that you have the right tickets, get to the circuit in reasonable time and all hotel worries are handled.

You are also likely to be travelling with more experienced fans who can help you out if necessary.

Once you know the ropes it is better to make your own way, but there is less chance of a disappointing first experience if you hand over most of the organisation to the professionals.
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I'm feeling tyred

[F1Annie]

When I started going to races I always went with an organised tour. But now it's so easy & much cheaper to book flights, accommodation & tickets on the net, I usually go independently.

Has anyone done Spa independently apart from driving there? It's one of my favourite circuits & I'd love to go next year but I don't think it's as easy as say Monza, unless you drive there.

Thanks.