When there are no races going on at Bahrain’s International Circuit, the sparse crews are renovating and preparing for the next one. New paint, carpet, and asphalt was being laid down in preparation for a few upcoming races that aren’t to be – at least in Bahrain. Since I wandered around the lifeless track in February, the decision was made to cancel the Bahrain F1 race in light of the recent protests.
Unfortunately this vantage point is about as far as you’re allowed to go. It seems a shame that there isn’t some kind of tour that would drive you around the track to get some different views. What tours are available are usually by reservation only and fairly expensive.
Bahrain’s International Circuit (specifically each major race) is a very important part of the tourism industry here, made even more evident by the fact that almost every road sign throughout the small island points you there. I should have figured however that without a race going on, it would be a disappointing experience. There’s hardly anything to do but walk around and take pictures from limited angles – yet when every sign in the country is pointing you in that direction, you can’t help but but imagine a wonderland where guests are given race cars to break the track in.
Nice one, I love panorama pics! Sorry that it was a somewhat disappointing experience–it reminds me of my recent visit to the Maracana, Rio de Janeiro’s football stadium and the biggest in the world. I learned just hours earlier that you do can get in, but it’s currently completely destroyed due to renovations with a view on the 2014 World Cup!
You get that feeling of excitement slowly deflate and few minutes after you arrive 🙂 The track and construction was very impressive, though wish they had something, just anything going on. There’s a lot of potential for off-race tourism there.
Love that photo – limited angles or not. A shame there was nothing going on when you were there.
Julia
Thanks, got lots of stitching help from Hugin for this one 🙂
Hi Anil, not letting you go further? that sucks. On the bright side atleast you got to see the how the place looks when it is not all jazzed up.
PS: I like the subtle theme modifications!
Yeah, I gave it my best shot and tried to talk my way at least a bit in through the entrance but that was just wishful thinking unfortunately :/
Thanks Priyank for noticing and letting me know! I’ve been on a tweaking kick lately. I thought I had a good forward-backward link as well going yesterday but will keep at it until I find something interesting. I haven’t forgotten! 😉