Couples, Pairs, Duos, and Matches

Peanut butter.
Jelly.

Two spreads that are forever linked in our minds, not to mention quite tasty in combination.  But is there anything inherent to their nature that brings the two of them together?  If not forced to coexist between slices of bread or even in jars, would we even think of grouping these two items together?  I would say beyond the fact that they're both spreadable food stuffs, the similarities are lacking.

I bring this up to introduce two concepts that truly belong together.  Two concepts that I'll admit I never thought of putting together, but upon seeing the combination, can't imagine any other way.  I'm talking about alcohol and go-karts.

Courtesy of City Weekend China (because most of my pictures were terrible).

I'm sure that all across the United States, probably every day, people are getting tanked before entering go-kart establishments.  But it takes a special place to eliminate the middle man.  And Shanghai was certainly ready to step up to plate and fulfill this role.  Although their website certainly makes it look a bit more swank than it actually is, the interior shots are authentic.

We arrived after spending the entire day at the Expo, had a few drinks, and felt that it was time for some racing.  It wasn't too pricey, about $12 for 7 minutes of driving with plenty of opportunities to get free tickets.  And for a city as expensive as Shanghai, it certainly felt worth it.  They line you up, give you a hairnet and helmet, and send you on your way.  (Ridiculously ill BAPE hoodie not included.)

Determination.  Desire.  Dedication.  Int...uhh...dintensity!

Other times that I've driven go-karts around, they've had their speed restricted in some way, but not these.  I never felt that unsafe, but I certainly didn't feel as if we were being coddled.  Well, except for the part where they rush out and help when you're stuck against the rubber sides of the track.  But other than that, no coddling!!

To make the event feel a bit more like laser tag, they print out a score sheet at the end of the session.  Each driver gets their individual lap times, just to seal the deal if getting passed a dozen times didn't sting enough.  But it's all good!  Because you're in a bar!  And not just any bar, a bar that plays one of Beyonce's live concerts on repeat for hours!  Only for the video, different music is playing the whole time.  (A common practice in Chinese clubs/bars.)

As I expected, 7 minutes wasn't enough.  And I have a feeling that the next time I'm in Shanghai, I'll pop in for a quick fix. 

Hrmm...this almost sounded review-like.  I should probably resurrect my Epinions account from middle school.