Okay it looks like I am going to have the time and budget to fly in from Dubai and see the race this year. I have 7 days or so that I need to kill out side of the US and this seems liket the perfect way. I can fly home to SC after the race and spend time with the family.
Questions:
-What is the closest International Airport? -Will I ever find a room at this point? -Will I need to rent a car? -Will I find people to hang out with? -I would drag my lady but she has to work in SC.
You want to fly in to St.John's, airport code YYT. If that doesn't work out, Gander (YQX) might work as the race overnights there once or twice. You will definitely need some sort of transport, so I'd recommend renting a car.
The event does publish a spectator guide that will tell you how to get around and where good spectating spots are. Lots of people to hang out with and the competition is designed to be very accessible. Make sure you stop by and say hi to the Flyin' Miata team!
I'd recommend dropping a line to Maxxim Vacations. They're the official travel agency of the event, and know the race better than anyone. They'll set you up with hotels and everything else.
In reply to Keith:
Hey Keith, I was hoping you would chime in. I did get with Maxxim and they are putting a package together for me. The wife has given me that all clear to go, so I am excited. I hope to come in on the 12th and stay through the 17th. I will stop by and say hello for sure. I know you are driving all the time, but have you seen any night life around. The Island looks super sleepy. After not being able to go out or drink for months its nice to let loose. That and I don't want to sit in a hotel room watching TV. I miss my home enough with out doing that. If you know any places that I should not miss let me know. How is the dinning on the Island? And how are the prices?
During the race, I'm just looking for my hotel room :) I have no idea what the night life is like in the smaller communities. But it's lively in St. John's, to put it mildly. George Street is legendary. And on Friday night after the Targa (Sept 16th), all the crews are out celebrating surviving another year.
The seafood is good - the fish and chips is the best I've ever had.
I'll be on the Rock the whole week, and will follow as much of the race as I can. I'll be doing some tourist stuff as well. Having a good friend who lives in the area will help tremendously.
From what I hear, George Street in St John's is the nightlife - and it's not bad. With the extra folks in town, expect crowds.Something tells me I'll get to learn about the night life first hand.
The schedule and spectator guide are still not published on the Targa website as of this morning - I need to make some arrangements for the areas away from St John's - Marystown, specifically.
And of course, I'll be looking for Keith's car - may have to ask Keith for an autograph. Will you have hero cards, or should I bring one of your books? 
We'll have hero cards this time. I still feel guilty for disappointing every kid in Newfoundland last time.
snipes wrote: -Will I need to rent a car? -Will I find people to hang out with?
Rent the car NOW! It may already be too late. There aren't many in NFLD to begin with (we couldn't get one in '08 in August).
Finding people to hang out with in NFLD is about as hard as finding sand on a beach. Smile. Drink beer. You will be fine.
They posted a Provisional Schedule.
Spectator Guide still "Coming Soon".
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