The Need for Speed
Rev Up Your Engines at The Best Auto Shows in the World
Orignally featured on iconiclife.com
Supercars are the ultimate luxury symbol. If simply revving your Porsche isn’t enough, car events are a perfect way to get your automotive fix in some of the most dazzling vacation destinations in the world. Here, your ultimate guide to the biggest and best auto shows in the world.
GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW—Geneva, Switzerland
The Geneva International Motor Show began in 1905 and is considered one of the top five best auto shows in the world. Last year the show featured more than 900 cars and was the site of more than 150 world and European car premiers. The Geneva show offers the most comprehensive view of new trends, cars, technology and future developments of any auto event in the world. The show slated for March 7 to 17, 2019 is a bucket list for any true car lover. For a VIP experience, GC Prive offers everything from premium seats, boxes and hospitality suites, to personal hosts, chauffeurs and the opportunity to rent a super car during your stay.
Where to Stay: Most of the hotels near the Palexpo center where the show is held are budget options. Instead, stay in the heart of the city at the historic Beau Rivage. Opt for the two-story Celestial Suite for views of both the city and famous Lake Geneva. Hotels sell out far in advance of the event, so the time to book is now.
BARRETT JACKSON—Scottsdale, Arizona Billed as the Greatest Collector Car auction in the world, the flagship Barrett Jackson Scottsdale auction treats car aficionados to high-octane fun January 12 to 20, 2019. Last year, more than 1,700 vehicles sold for over $160 million, with the top vehicle, a 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder commanding a cool $1.4 million. The very first pre-production hardtop 1965 Ford Mustang, and a rare 2001 Ferrari 550 Barchetta, are some of the highlights that will cross the auction block in 2019.
In addition to the auction, there are seminars, automobilia for sale and VIP parties. For the most exclusive access, the Craig Jackson VIP package offers skybox access, reserved seating in the auction area, parking, special auction block tour, a meet and greet with founder Craig Jackson, VIP bidder bar access, bidder registration and an invitation to the opening night gala.
Where to stay: Sanctuary Resort & Spa offers the ultimate auction package with three Camelback Mountain estates available ranging from 4,400 to 5,800 sq. ft.
PARK PLACE SUPER CAR SHOW—Irving/Dallas, Texas If it’s true that everything is bigger in Texas it’s no surprise that the Park Place Super Car Show slated for September 2019 is planning to grow exponentially entering its third year.
This newbie to the car show circuit features the most luxurious autos of any event in Texas. Held at the Four Seasons Las Colinas, the largest Four Seasons in the world, the grounds are a perfect backdrop to view gorgeous cars like this year’s best of show, a 1996 Ferrari 275 GTB 6C. The show features a VIP tasting experience highlighting some of the top tables in Dallas, a fashion show, and a sampling of some of the hottest new cars from brands like Porsche, McLaren, Bentley and more.
Where to stay: With the event onsite, the Four Seasons Las Colinas is the only choice. To get ready for the big event, book the oxygen infusion facial at the Well & Being Spa.
PEBBLE BEACH CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE—Pebble Beach, California The grand dame of American concours events, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is August 18, 2019, capping off an entire Monterey Car Week that begins August 9. Only 200 cars are chosen from more than 1,000 to appear in the concours event.
Last year, a 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C2900B Touring Berlinetta took home the top prize. In 2018, there were 10 world debuts and eight North American auto premiers. While the Chairman’s Hospitality Package is the most exclusive ticket package available, the only way to experience all the VIP events if your car is not accepted into the concours competition is to participate in the Motoring Classic. The 1,500-mile road trip travels from Seattle to Pebble Beach. Anyone with a quality pre-1968 auto can apply to be one of the 30 cars invited into the rally.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Pebble Beach is the location for the Concours d’Elegance and the ideal place to stay. The historic property offers complimentary transportation via Lexus and admission to several private clubs in the area, as well as preferred golf tee time reservations.
MONACO GRAND PRIX—Monte Carlo, Monaco Considered one of the most prestigious and best auto shows in the world, The Monaco Grand Prixcelebrates 77 years when Formula One drivers take to the Circuit de Monaco May 23 to 26, 2019. Because the course winds through the hilly, narrow streets of Monaco, it is one of the most demanding, and slowest F1 races held. For a luxe experience, choose to see the race from the brand new Suite Terrace at the Majestic Palace, which has a view of more than 75 percent of the course. The package includes all-day gourmet catering with bubbly and fine wines. Or the ultimate viewing perch is from a yacht in Port Hercule.
Where to Stay: With views of the course from the Salle Belle Epoque Terrace, the historic Hotel Hermitage is a great base. Its location in the coveted Carré d’Or district puts you steps from restaurants, shops, the opera and casino.
