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Sports & Activities

A guide to cycling in Dubai 
Cycling & Biking, Middle East & Gulf, Trends

A guide to cycling in Dubai 

Cycling in Dubai has evolved from a niche weekend pastime into one of the city’s fastest-growing lifestyle trends. Transformed into a world-class destination for cyclists of all levels, purpose-built tracks now weave through deserts, beachfronts and urban skylines, offering everything from leisurely scenic rides to high-performance training grounds.  Whether you’re a recreational rider looking for a safe morning loop, a commuter seeking eco-friendly alternatives, or a road cyclist chasing personal bests, Dubai delivers in style. From the sweeping Al Qudra desert trail to the bustling Nad Al Sheba and Meydan circuits, the city combines immaculate infrastructure with year-round sunshine and a thriving cycling community.  Where to ride in Dubai Located in the desert ap...
All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027
Editor's Pick, Europe, Events, Golf, Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

All eyes on Ireland as golf’s Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor in 2027

With Europe clinching a dramatic Ryder Cup victory over the USA at Bethpage Black, all eyes now turn to Ireland as the countdown begins for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, where golf’s greatest team event will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Team Europe stars Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy played pivotal roles in New York, with Lowry delivering the decisive half point that ensured Europe retained the coveted trophy in front of packed galleries. Ireland’s Ryder Cup roots run strong, with Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Darren Clarke among recent captains, having also provided unforgettable moments such as McGinley holing the winning putt in 2002 and Clarke’s performance at the K Club in 2006, when Ireland last hosted the event. The Island of Ireland is no stranger to hostin...
Verbier, Switzerland: a winter sports travel guide for 2025-2026
Europe, Winter Sports

Verbier, Switzerland: a winter sports travel guide for 2025-2026

Verbier, an Alpine village in Switzerland’s Valais Canton, is set to deliver one of its most ambitious ski seasons yet. From November 2025 right through to the end of April 2026 – a total of 151 skiable days – winter sports lovers will have half a year to carve up Switzerland’s most iconic terrain. Weekend-only access starts the season in November before the full lift system opens daily from early December. High-altitude pistes up to 2,700m and extensive snowmaking (63% coverage) make for reliable conditions from the first snowfall to spring’s final après-ski. Two rapid gondolas whisk skiers from the 1,500m village to summit terrain in under 11 minutes – meaning powder laps before breakfast are practically a given. Verbier anchors the 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest linked ski ar...
Sports travel bucket list: rent an ultra-luxury ski chalet for €550,000 per week
Bucket List, Hotels & Resorts, Trips & Experiences, Winter Sports

Sports travel bucket list: rent an ultra-luxury ski chalet for €550,000 per week

If your winter sports dreams include carving down world-class slopes by day and retreating to your own private Alpine palace by night, this one’s for the bucket list. London-based The Luxury Chalet Company has unveiled its most opulent winter portfolio yet – a collection of chalets so lavish they redefine what après-ski luxury means. With properties starting from €30,000 per week and soaring to an astonishing €500,000 per week (and sometimes beyond), these chalets are the ultimate in mountain indulgence. Guests can expect indoor swimming pools, private spas, cinema rooms, gyms, games lounges, wine cellars, and even grand pianos, alongside butlers, chefs, chauffeurs, and personal concierges. Cameron Temple, founder of The Luxury Chalet Company, said: “Our clients are looking for the u...
Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Bucket List, Europe, Golf, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Italian Swing’ golf trip on La Dolce Vita Orient Express

For golf travellers who believe the journey should be every bit as memorable as the destination, the “Italian Swing” voyage aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express is a bucket list experience like no other. This four-day, three-night adventure fuses world-class golf with the romance of slow luxury travel – a rolling celebration of Italy’s landscapes, cuisine, and culture. Unveiled as part of the La Dolce Vita Orient Express’s series of curated Italian itineraries, the Italian Swing offers an indulgent round trip from Rome to Apulia, Siena, and Perugia, showcasing Italy’s finest fairways in cinematic style. Think golden Tuscan hills, medieval towns, coastal vistas, and evenings of exquisite dining – all wrapped in the timeless elegance of a train that redefines old-world glamour. Onbo...
Sports travel bucket list: Fitness Hub at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Asia & Oceania, Bucket List, Hotels & Resorts, Trips & Experiences, Wellness & Fitness

Sports travel bucket list: Fitness Hub at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan has unveiled its new Fitness Hub, a dedicated space perched above the Ayung River that unites modern training methods with restorative therapies. It is the only jungle sanctuary in Bali to offer both time-honoured healing traditions and advanced recovery therapies in one seamless experience. Part of the growing global movement towards longevity tourism, the Fitness Hub blends recovery-focused travel and immersive nature experiences to promote vitality, balance, and long-term wellbeing. Here, guests can flow seamlessly from ancient Balinese healing rituals to high-tech recovery in one of the world's most serene river valleys. Set high above the river valley, the new Fitness Hub offers complimentary access to a light-filled gym with panoramic jungl...
Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates to open in Dubai in 2030
Golf, Hotels & Resorts, Middle East & Gulf, Sports Business

Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates to open in Dubai in 2030

Hotel group Mandarin Oriental has announced that its first dedicated golf resort – Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates – will be located in Dubai, UAE. Opening in 2030 and featuring branded residences, the luxury golf and wellness resort will be the group’s third property in the city and uniquely positioned within Jumeirah Golf Estates’s next phase of development.  When it opens its doors, the Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai will comprise 121 spacious rooms and suites. In addition, there will be 97 branded residences ranging from three- to six-bedroom villas, each with its own amenities and private access to a lounge, meeting space, pool and fitness areas. A highlight of the resort will be The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, presenting an extensive range of the group’s...
Sports travel bucket list: ‘Highland Icons’ golf breaks at Links House
Bucket List, Europe, Golf, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Highland Icons’ golf breaks at Links House

The UK's most northerly luxury destination has launched 'Highland Icons' golf breaks on the world-famous North Coast 500 for autumn and spring. The five-star Links House at Royal Dornoch has created the ultimate stay-and-play packages for passionate golfers looking for a world-class experience within easy access of four championship level courses listed amongst the UK's top 100. Located just one hour from Inverness Airport, Links House is easily accessible for a two or three-night golf break from London, Manchester, Bristol and Belfast.  As well as sitting less than 100 yards from the first tee at Royal Dornoch, the legendary Links House is also well-placed within 30 minutes of Brora, Tain and Golspie golf courses.  Whether you're escaping for a competitive few days with frie...
DP World Tour 2026 calendar: 42 tournaments across five ‘global swings’ 
Event Calendars, Events, Golf

DP World Tour 2026 calendar: 42 tournaments across five ‘global swings’ 

The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship and a new venue for the Amgen Irish Open headline the 2026 DP World Tour global schedule.  Featuring a minimum of 42 Race to Dubai tournaments in 25 different countries, the schedule will once again comprise three distinct phases, beginning with five ‘Global Swings’ followed by the ‘Back 9’, with the season then culminating with the ‘DP World Tour Play-Offs’ in November 2026. Members will compete for a record total prize fund of $157.5 million (outside the Major Championships) on golf’s global Tour next season. The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship, the first tournament on the European Swing, will take place from 7-10 May 2026 at Real Club de Golf El Prat in Barcelona. It is a new event on the 2026 schedule following the agreement annou...
Property+Padel: redefining corporate networking through sport
Sports Business, Tennis & Padel

Property+Padel: redefining corporate networking through sport

What happens when you mix the world’s fastest-growing sport with the dynamic energy of global business? The answer is Property+Padel, a fresh, high-energy corporate networking platform that’s bringing together professionals from real estate, finance, private equity, fintech, insurance, legal, media and sport. At its core, the concept is simple yet effective. Corporate teams step onto the padel court to battle it out for the ‘Corporate Padel Cup’. But the real game extends far beyond the glass walls. Off court, competitors and cross-industry leaders gather to connect, collaborate and spark new business opportunities in a uniquely social setting. Behind this fast-rising platform are co-founders Rohit Grewal and Ben Nichols, who fused their backgrounds in real estate and international s...
Sports travel bucket list: an Alpine winter ice driving and ski adventure
Bucket List, Europe, F1 & Motorsport, Trips & Experiences, Winter Sports

Sports travel bucket list: an Alpine winter ice driving and ski adventure

Luxury driving tour company HunterMoss has launched a seven-day winter adventure for supercar and ski enthusiasts in January 2026.  The Luxury Winter Ice Driving Tour starts in Munich, Germany, where guests will embark on a small group tour that traverses over 750km of the Austrian and Bavarian Alps, cruising in a convoy of luxury SUVs, settling into a series of rejuvenating five-star spa retreats and experiential fine-dining. Midway through the tour, travellers can opt to take on a two-day Porsche Ice Driving Experience, mastering snow and ice circuits at speed behind the wheel of Boxsters, Caymans, 911s and GT3s. The itinerary also opens the door to Salzburg’s celebrated winter landscape, where guests can explore some of Austria’s finest ski terrain at the peak of the season, befor...
Explora Journeys names Jannik Sinner as brand ambassador 
Sports Business, Tennis & Padel

Explora Journeys names Jannik Sinner as brand ambassador 

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has announced a partnership with four-time tennis grand slam champion Jannik Sinner, who becomes the brand's new ambassador. At the heart of this collaboration is The Ocean State of Mind, Explora Journeys' guiding ethos – a philosophy inspired by the sea and its ability to create calm, clarity, and connection. For Italian star Sinner, 24, these values are essential to his performance: balance to navigate high-pressure moments, resilience to recover, and the ability to remain grounded in the constant pursuit of improvement. This alignment reflects a shared understanding that excellence is not only about results, but also about process, authenticity, and wellbeing.  "I'm honoured to join Explora Journeys as the...
Sports resort in focus: Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club, Scotland
Europe, Golf, Hotels & Resorts, Trips & Experiences

Sports resort in focus: Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club, Scotland

Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s rolling Perthshire countryside, just 20 minutes from Dundee Airport and under an hour from Edinburgh, Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Club is a luxury retreat that fuses championship golf with timeless Scottish hospitality. Set across 365 acres of parkland and woodland, this historic estate is both a tranquil escape and a gateway to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. With its blend of elite golf access, refined accommodation, diverse dining, and adventure-filled countryside setting, Murrayshall offers the complete Scottish getaway. Whether you’re chasing bucket-list golf, a romantic retreat, or an outdoor family escape, this Perthshire gem delivers an unforgettable experience at the very heart of Scotland. The estate Dating back more...
Sports travel bucket list: Picos de Europa walking holiday in Spain
Bucket List, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: Picos de Europa walking holiday in Spain

The spectacular skyline of the Picos de Europa region of northern Spain has held a special draw for centuries, signalling to sailors that they were nearly home, and now beckoning hikers from around the world. A new route offered by walking trip specialists On Foot Holidays maintains this sense of anticipation, starting in the green foothills to the east and journeying westwards to the higher wilderness. First you'll become acquainted with the quiet farm tracks scattered across the Polaciones and Liébana valleys. Stop at tiny villages to stay in wayside inns and small hotels where you can enjoy a glass of orujo (the local firewater) with your hosts and sample the hearty Lebaniego stew. After the bustling little town of Potes, follow the final section of the Camino Lebaniego pilgrimage...
A guide to golf in Dubai
Golf, Middle East & Gulf

A guide to golf in Dubai

Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world’s premier golf tourism destinations, attracting both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic amateurs to its sun-drenched fairways. What was once desert terrain has been transformed into a golfer’s paradise, where championship courses designed by legends of the game sit alongside cutting-edge entertainment venues and luxurious resorts. The city’s year-round warm climate, stunning skyline backdrops, and exceptional hospitality make it an irresistible choice for anyone looking to combine sport with leisure. At the heart of Dubai’s appeal is its role as a regular stop on the men’s DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour), with prestigious events such as the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and season-ending DP World Tour Championship drawi...
Okinawa: celebrate Karate Day in the birthplace of karate
Asia & Oceania, Other sports, Trips & Experiences

Okinawa: celebrate Karate Day in the birthplace of karate

Every October, the subtropical islands of Okinawa transform into the world stage for one of the most powerful cultural displays in Japan: Karate Day. Held on 25 October in the prefectural capital of Naha, this annual event gathers thousands of practitioners from across the globe to honour Okinawa’s role as the birthplace of karate – a martial art that is more than just combat; it is a way of life rooted in courtesy, discipline, and respect. Living heritage Karate’s story stretches back more than 700 years, forged in Okinawa’s unique history as a crossroads of East and Southeast Asia. Over time, the art evolved into a disciplined practice known today not only for its power and precision, but also for its guiding philosophy, shurei-no-kokoro – the spirit of courtesy.  In Okinaw...
Sports travel bucket list: hiking and island hopping on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast
Bucket List, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: hiking and island hopping on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast

Step off the tourist trail and onto Croatia’s spectacular Dalmatian coast and its islands with a seven-day hiking adventure. Offered by travel company Island Hopping, this journey combines rugged trails with boutique stays, weaving through hidden coves, historic towns, and breathtaking seascapes. Guided by local experts, travellers can uncover the authentic heart of Croatia – its culture, heritage, and natural beauty – one step at a time. The "Croatia Island Explorer" trip begins in the ancient city of Split, looping through the picturesque islands of Brac and Hvar, before returning to Split's scenic waterfront. Guests will follow historic trails and hike to breathtaking peaks, exploring iconic landmarks and stunning natural wonders along the way. Daily hikes average 5.8km with highligh...
Intrepid Travel unveils new premium walking and trekking trips
Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Intrepid Travel unveils new premium walking and trekking trips

Adventure travel company Intrepid Travel has unveiled its range of new premium walking and trekking trips to some of the world's best hiking trails. Departing from January 2026 and led by Intrepid's most experienced local leaders, Intrepid's premium range is the company's most comfortable travel offering, where travellers can expect handpicked accommodation, premium service and exceptional included experiences. Spanning five continents and ranging from three to nine days, the 10 new premium trips feature hikes through Italy, Madeira, Vietnam, Nepal, Morocco, Peru, Jordan and the United States. Since its 2022 launch, premium has become Intrepid's fastest growing travel style, while sales of its well-established walking and trekking range have also grown. Intrepid has seen an 89% incre...
Sports travel bucket list: 10-day Japan ski and culture tour
Bucket List, Trips & Experiences, Winter Sports

Sports travel bucket list: 10-day Japan ski and culture tour

As Japan’s popularity for luxury skiing continues to grow, Wayfairer Travel has launched a 10-day Japan ski and culture tour to meet rising demand. Projected to become the luxury travel company’s most popular destination in 2025, bookings to Japan have increased by 32% since 2024.  Japan is the world’s most sought-after skiing destination due to its exceptional snow conditions and unique cultural  experiences. Influenced by cold Siberian winds, the region consistently receives light, dry powder snow known as ‘JaPOW’, which, combined with Japan’s distinctive tree skiing, sets it apart from other winter destinations around the globe.  Wayfairer’s new itinerary is packed with both metropolitan city exploration and off-the grid adventure – a fantastic tour for travellers seeking immersiv...
Sports travel bucket list: padel and tennis at The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia 
Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Tennis & Padel, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: padel and tennis at The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia 

The Datai Langkawi has partnered with LUX Tennis to bring world-class tennis and padel coaching experiences to the iconic Malaysian rainforest resort – making it the first resort in Langkawi to introduce padel courts.  Through its partnership with LUX Tennis, the resort further enhances its existing activity offering with bespoke sporting experiences, including premium coaching and tailored programmes. Nestled within the enchanting rainforest surroundings of The Els Club Teluk Datai, The Datai Langkawi's tennis and padel facilities provide the perfect setting for guests to elevate their game, refine their skills, compete against a professional, or simply enjoy an exhilarating match in a breathtaking natural setting.  Stéphane Duvacher, general manager of The Datai Langkawi, said...