Experience the Exhilaration at the Malaysian GP

Imagine the adrenaline pumping speed of the world's fastest cars, the skill of the world's fastest drivers and the glamour associated with Formula One. If that sounds good combine the tropical paradise of Malaysia including great shopping malls and vibrant night spots. Add to the mix a sprinkling of culture, adventure and exploration. That is what the Formula One Grand Prix at Sepang Malaysia is all about; it is perhaps too good to be true, never has such a combination of almost everything one would want on a holiday been so perfectly incorporated into one package.

The Malaysian Sepang racing circuit has lauded by racing pundits as being hyper modern even by lofty F1 standards. The Malaysian Grand Prix was added to the Formula One calendar in 1999 though FIA sanctioned racing events were worked off here since the 1960's. So far nine races have been held here and each one was heralded by drivers and the crowd as being highly competitive and interesting. The freak weather that is experienced in the tropics provides adds an extra dimension to racing in Sepang. Drivers may experience clear skies and sunny weather one moment only to endure a rainstorm in a few minutes.

One such incident was in 2001 when the race was hit by a severe rainstorm when the drivers were halfway through the race. This called for a dramatic change of tactics by the teams and also for different driving style by the drivers. The ensuing conditions caused the two Ferraris to spin off the tracks and in a thrilling climax they made a remarkable recovery to be complete a Ferrari one-two. The Malaysian Grand Prix which was earlier held at the end of the season was later moved to the beginning and this year's race was won by reigning Champion Kimi Raikkonen of Ferrari.

The Malaysian Grand Prix is also known to be preceded by a few off-track events known as Pit Stop parties; some parties are sponsored by Formula One team such as the Renault F1 concert and the Toyota Rev party. A number of other cultural events and exhibitions are also scheduled during this time for visiting tourists. Even shopping malls get into the "F1 spirit" by announcing discount sales and special opening hours.

Since the track is located close to the Kuala Lumpur international airport a budget hotel in Kuala Lumpur would be an ideal place for visitors to base themselves on their trip to Sepang. One such hotel that offers great access to the transportation network and the city's attractions is Citrus hotel, Kuala Lumpur