The Abu Dhabi GP was one race I really wanted to attend. Kimi Raikkonen's Victory in 2012 meant that a 2013 race could not be missed.

The Abu Dhabi GP was my 5th and the Final Live Race in 2013. One must say that the track and the atmosphere is awe-inspiring.

Not everything went as planned but nevertheless let us relive those memories and as usual the Day 1 Experience First!!

I was staying in Dubai so travelling to the circuit meant that it would be a 2 hour journey ( approx ). However with a nice set of wheels, its a breeze!

Enroute to the Circuit :

The Drive to the Circuit entrance was smooth but it is highly recommended that you get the Parking Pass for all 3 days. Intra-Circuit shuttles do run but they drop you at odd locations and you still end up walking quite a distance. The Security Checks are Airport-grade which is nice.

However the Staff needs to be well informed about exits and routes to help visitors. Many were listless and offered poor advice which meant many were left going round and round in circles. A Big Let down for a circuit with such fantastic facilities.

The F1 Village Area :

The Yas Marina Hotel !

The Lotus F1 Team had their own suite at the race :

The View of the Track from the Suite :

It was soon time for FP1.

Shots from FP1 :

Chequered Flag for FP1 :

Lotus F1 Team in action during FP1 :

Romain Grosjean was the Fastest in FP1 !!! Kimi Raikkonen was 6th Fastest ! The Signs looked good for the team..

An Early Dinner!!

As always it was time for the Pit Lane Walk!

Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :

The Lotus F1 Team readying the Cars for FP2 !

Ciaron Pilbeam, Mark Slade, Rob Cherry and Jamie readying the Iceman's Car - SWEET!

We were soon joined by Davide Valsecchi in the Suite. As usual the Italian was all smiles and chirpy as ever. He Truly deserves to be driving for a F1 team.. Is anybody listening??

It was soon time for FP2 to start and the Twilight session looked absolutely beautiful!!

Team Pit Walls from FP2 :

Shots from FP2 :

Lotus F1 team in FP2 :

Sebastien Vettel was Fastest in FP2. Kimi Raikkonen was only 3 Tenths off the Pace in P4 which was a great sign. Romain Grosjean struggled in P12...

The Track under Lights - Beautiful!

Some More Stills from the Lotus F1 Team Suite :

Dessert Station!! Ice Cream, Chocolates, Cookies, Macaroons!! Control......