The concept is aimed at F1 aficionados – obviously McLaren-Honda fans – who, not content with simply watching the action on the Yas Marina Circuit, would like to surround themselves with reminders of the event.
Mercifully, the suite isn’t crammed with all manner of merchandise, but is tastefully decorated with a curated collection of memorabilia, some of it on loan from the racing giants.
I loved the stacks of worn Pirelli racing tyres in the spacious bedroom and living room, which also has a toy racing track set-up with two cars – it kept my husband and teenage son busy for a noisy 20 minutes. Golden picture frames of McLaren-Honda drivers Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso hang on the walls, and a three-tier glass cabinet (locked, of course) proudly holds a limited-edition reproduction of an F1 steering wheel, a racing helmet and an exquisite model of a racing car.
The extra sofa in the living room – which opens up into a decent-sized bed – is cosy, with a pile of cushions and a McLaren teddy bear, and can easily accommodate two children.
The kids, if you take them, will love the complimentary chocolate racing car – bright red and beautifully moulded – set out on the dining table beside a thoughtful “welcome letter” signed by the two racing icons themselves.
“Thanks for making a pit stop in our very own Hilton and McLaren-Honda Formula 1 racing suite,” write Button and Alonso. “We hope to make you proud at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.”
The only jarring note is the life-size mannequin, clad in pristine racing togs, that stands right in front of the door to the suite. It made me jump out of my skin when we first walked in – but my son thought it an extremely cool idea.
Those who decide to stay in and pass on the pool or the private beach across the road – yes, that's how funky the suite is – can browse through the glossy, picture-filled coffee-table book McLaren: The Art of Racing, or thumb through a copy of the November issue of F1 Racing magazine, the cover of which sports a glorious close-up of the handsome Alonso.
In the master bathroom, above the oversized bath, hang two plush towelling robes with “Alonso” and “Button” embroidered on the back in bold, black type. And no, you can’t take home any mementos. Housekeeping has a full inventory of every last, artistically arranged item.
The feeling of exclusivity continues with full access to the executive lounge that provides tea, coffee and snacks during the day and beverages in the evenings – the perfect time to sit back, glass in hand, and enjoy the sun slowly set over the twinkling lights and sparkling waters of the Corniche.
Breakfast the next morning – included in the package – is a choice between a light, Continental-style spread set out in the executive lounge, filled with quietly working businessmen; or a hearty, satisfying buffet with excellent coffee in the quiet, airy La Terrazza restaurant.
Then it’s back to the room for another round on the toy racetrack before, reluctantly, heading downstairs to check out after a remarkably F1-fuelled – yet restful – experience.
• The Mclaren-Honda Suite at Hilton Abu Dhabi costs Dh2,175 per night for two adults and up to two children (under 12), including access to the executive lounge and breakfast. The offer runs until December 6. Call 02 681 1900 for more information and to book
ciyer@thenational.ae
