The Isle of Man is a small tax-haven in the middle of the Irish Sea. It is part of the UK but it seems to follow their own law when they wish, since it is so isolated anyway. We set off on our Steam Packet ferry catamaran and arrived late at night to see the coastline of Douglas lit up and full of motorcycle fans. There was a cycle race this weekend on the island; the Isle has been known for its friendliness to motorsports for over a century but I swear this had NOTHING to do with me wanting to visit ;). With the hotels and bars full of racing fans, whitewashed sea side buildings and curving bay promenade I was immediately comparing it to the principality of Monaco, also long having been on my list of places to visit. Anyways we tiredly checked into our hotel and
I looked forward to my day exploring the island and motorsport attractions.
We rented our crappiest and smallest car ever, a Chevy Matiz, and visited the start/finish line grandstands, pits and paddock of the circuit. Lots of fast looking cycles, historic looking signage and cool souvenirs. We took two laps around the 40 mile island road circuit (not closed off for practice until later) and I enjoyed every minute of it in our glorified golf cart Chevy. Many motorcycles passed us but I was too busy taking in all the turns, sights and roads to care. Castletown, Ramsey and Douglas were all awesome places to enjoy the sea and motorcycles. I will have to return again some day because 1 day was not enough. There is a car rally earlier in the season and Jessie read that there are several island racing championships in which visitors and particpants can partake. Awesome Awesome Awesome place to race and visit to see the landscapes. One day I want to live here and just race all year around the island.
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