Trips & Experiences

6Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List

Sports travel bucket list: F1 Live Milan fan festival and show

Formula 1 fans looking for an early addition to the 2027 sports travel bucket list should mark 18-20 February in the calendar, when F1 Live Milan brings a three-day celebration of motorsport to one of Italy’s most famous cities. Taking place just ahead of the start of the 2027 Formula 1 season, the event promises to turn Milan into a destination for F1 fans from around the world, combining appearances from the sport’s biggest names with live entertainment and a three-day fan festival. F1 Live Milan follows the success of F1 75 Live, which was held at The O2 in London in February 2025. That event was broadcast across 37 territories and attracted 7.5 million viewers to its live broadcast. Formula 1 now plans to take the concept further with a bigger and more immersive experience in Ita...

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6Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Trends, Trips & Experiences

Rise of ‘sportcations’: Trip.com reports double-digit growth in active travel bookings

Active travel and “sportcations” are continuing to be one of the biggest trends in tourism, with Trip.com Group seeing a strong double-digit increase in booking GMV (gross merchandise value).  From cycling through mountain passes to joining diving camps and wellness retreats, active travel is becoming a defining part of how people experience the world. This shift is gathering pace across the full travel journey, with searches for active sports experiences growing by more than 30% year on year, according to Trip.com, with markets witnessing substantial increases: 80% in Singapore, 65% in Malaysia, and 50% in the United Kingdom, while France, Italy, Germany, and Spain all recorded triple-digit growth. Total travel booking GMV has increased by almost 40%, with markets such as So...

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6Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Trends, Trips & Experiences

Active ‘coolcations’ in Europe – top destinations for hiking and cycling

The best destinations in Europe for an active “coolcation” have been revealed, with France's Mont Blanc region taking first place. In new research from SportsCover Direct, the sports travel insurance provider analysed 30 of Europe's most popular adventure destinations, ranking each on average summer temperature and humidity, hiking and cycling trail density, and travel time from the UK. Following another summer of record-breaking temperatures across Europe, online searches for coolcations have risen 74% year-on-year, with 65% of holidaymakers now saying they'd rather avoid travelling during the hottest time of year.  But, rather than giving up on travel altogether, many are simply choosing to visit somewhere cooler instead, and for a growing number, it’s not just about swappi...

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24Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Trends, Trips & Experiences

Qatar Airways Holidays launches stopover packages for F1 Qatar Grand Prix 2026

Qatar Airways Holidays has expanded its Qatar stopover experience with the launch of exclusive packages for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2026.  For the first time, three-day F1 race tickets have been integrated into Qatar Stopover packages along with flights and hotel accommodation, allowing passengers transiting through Doha's Hamad International Airport to create a grand prix getaway. The new offering complements Qatar Airways Holidays' existing F1 fan packages, providing travellers with another way to experience the excitement of the race at Lusail International Circuit while discovering Qatar's entertainment, cultural and hospitality offerings. A three-day T16 Grandstand ticket to the F1 Qatar GP 2026 will be included as part of the package, offering fans spect...

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20Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: the return of Formula 1 to Malaysia in 2026

Formula 1 will return to Malaysia’s iconic Sepang International Circuit after nine years following the decision to relocate the Bahrain Grand Prix. Taking place from 2-4 October 2026, the event will become the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Located around 45km south of Kuala Lumpur and close to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Sepang International Circuit hosted the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix from 1999 to 2017. It remains one of the sport’s most iconic venues, renowned for its dramatic 5.543km layout, challenging corners and spectacular tropical setting. F1 fans are being encouraged to explore beyond the grid, to combine race weekend excitement with a wider Malaysian getaway. Beyond the circuit, the wider Sepang district offers Bagan Lalang Beach, th...

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20Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: a ‘SwimHike’ holiday on Marettimo island in Italy

Open-water swimming tour operator SwimTrek has expanded its selection of multi-activity trips with the launch of a “SwimHike” holiday on the Italian island of Marettimo.  Continuing the trend of combining swimming with other activities and experiences – such as YogaSwims, which pair open-water swimming with yoga – SwimTrek created its dedicated SwimHike portfolio with new trips in the mythical island of Ithaca, Greece, and the remote Solund archipelago, Norway's westernmost islands. Following the popularity of these trips, Marettimo is the latest addition, combining daily guided open-water swims and hikes with authentic Sicilian experiences.  “Swimming will always be at the heart of SwimTrek, but we’re excited to give people new ways to experience the places we visit,” s...

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20Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: padel retreat at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Could this be the perfect pre-Christmas gift for padel lovers? Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is hosting The Maldives Padel Retreat from 13-23 December 2026. Led by former world No.1, Juani Mieres, the retreat invites guests to refine their game with a legend of the sport while embracing the pleasures of island life. The 10-day retreat brings together expert coaching on a state-of-the-art padel court overlooking the turquoise lagoon, island discovery and a curated programme of wellness, recreation and exploration. Widely regarded as one of the sport's most respected figures, Mieres reached world No.1 and won multiple World Championship and World Padel Tour titles. Known as "The Gentleman of Padel" for his elegant playing style and precision, Mieres will open up his playbook, g...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: pedal kayaking at Hanz Outdoor Resort in Japan

A new water activity, the "pedal kayak", has been introduced at Hanz Outdoor Resort in Japan, offering guests a fresh way to explore the water.  This innovative kayak allows forward movement simply by pedalling with the feet, removing the need for a traditional paddle. Designed for ease and accessibility, the pedal kayak glides smoothly across the water, making it especially suitable for first-time kayakers, children, and older guests. Its intuitive operation allows participants to focus less on technique and more on the experience of being on the water.  Guests can enjoy the quiet rhythm of pedalling while taking in the surrounding natural scenery, creating a relaxed yet active outdoor experience. A two-hour pedal kayak trip is priced from ¥9,500 / £44 per person.  About Hanz Out...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Events

Sports travel bucket list: Olympics hospitality at LA28

On Location, the official hospitality provider of the Los Angeles Olympic Games, has launched a wave of new ticket-inclusive hospitality packages for the summer games in 2028. Hospitality packages for Equestrian and Diving are now available, alongside newly released package types for Athletics (Track & Field), Beach Volleyball, and Golf, expanding the range of options for fans planning to attend LA28. Leisure-level hospitality packages now also include access to dedicated Hospitality Pavilions. Purchase details are outlined below. A brand-new package concept called “Follow My Team” has also launched, giving fans guaranteed hospitality access to their country’s men’s and women’s basketball matches without worrying about schedule announcements, draws, or purchasing individual event...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick

Sports travel bucket list: the first ever NFL game in Paris

Having already experienced the brilliant atmosphere of NFL games at both Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, as well as a Jets vs. Giants spectacle in New York/New Jersey, we thought we'd ticked off some of American football's top bucket-list experiences for sports travellers. Then came the 2026 NFL International Games schedule… For the first time ever, the NFL will stage a regular-season game in Paris, instantly making the French capital one of the must-visit sports travel destinations of 2026. As sports travellers constantly searching for the world's most memorable events, the inaugural NFL Paris Game has shot straight to the top of our bucket list. The league's first regular-season game in France is far more than another fixture on the calendar. It represen...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Events, Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business & Industry, Trips & Experiences

Steven Gerrard heads to Singapore for Beyond the Pitch event at Resorts World Sentosa

Former Liverpool and England football captain Steven Gerrard will be in Singapore this October for the inaugural Beyond the Pitch event at Resorts World Sentosa. Scheduled for 4-5 October 2026, he will take part in an interactive football clinic, share stories and lessons from his career, and join members of Singapore's football community in a conversation about leadership, football development and the future of the game. Created by World Football Legends, Beyond the Pitch is a new series designed to bring audiences closer to the people behind some of football's most celebrated careers, not only through what they achieved on the field but through the experiences, challenges, leadership lessons and defining moments that shaped them. "Beyond the Pitch is about bringing people closer...

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19Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Events

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Run for the Rainforest’ 2026 Odzala Marathon

On 3 October 2026, Kamba Africa will offer a bucket list challenge for endurance runners and adventure seekers: the annual “Run for the Rainforest”.  Situated in the Republic of the Congo (ROC), the Run for the Rainforest event raises vital funds for African Parks to continue their protection of the world’s second largest rainforest, by allowing participants to fundraise among their network, while experiencing one of the planet’s most pristine ecosystems in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kamba Africa is the only private operator granted concessions in the ROC's Odzala-Kokoua National Park, offering guests intimate luxury lodges and adventurous rainforest expeditions.  The races and packages The day features three distinct race categories to...

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29Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: Cycling Scotland’s new Gallovidian Gravel route 

Launched to coincide with the opening of Cycling UK’s new Gallovidian Gravel long distance cycling route in Dumfries and Galloway, Saddle Skedaddle’s seven-day, guided gravel riding holiday explores Scotland’s newest cycling adventure. Following most of Cycling UK’s new Gallovidian Gravel route, Saddle Skedaddle’s guided holiday – the Galloway Gravel Escape – breaks up the long-distance way into manageable riding days.  Starting in Dumfries, also known as “Scotland’s Queen of the south”, the riding begins at the start of the new Gallovidian Gravel route. Exploring Mabie Forest and Lochaber Loch, cyclepaths and singletrack take riders through open countryside past Loch Arthur, the hamlets of Beeswing and Corra, and the coastal village of Rockcliffe. Venturing into dense woodla...

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29Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: Caribbean Premier League cricket in Jamaica

Cricket fans, listen up... who wants to watch Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches in Jamaica this summer? We do for sure! This August, cricket fans can see the Jamaica Kingsmen make their home debut at the legendary Sabina Park before swapping the stadium for white-sand beaches, Blue Mountain hikes, reggae culture and authentic Caribbean cuisine.  Taking place from 11-18 August, the CPL offers the perfect excuse to turn a week of thrilling T20 action into an unforgettable sports holiday on one of the world's most vibrant islands. "Cricket has always been part of Jamaica's soul, and the CPL gives us an incredible opportunity to showcase the very best of our island to the world,” says Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica. “We are proud to welcome UK fans this August,...

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29Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: padel with Martita Ortega at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

What could be better than a luxury escape to the Maldives? How about spending it on court with one of the world's greatest padel players? This August, guests at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi will have the rare opportunity to train alongside former world No.1 Martita Ortega during an exclusive two-day residency in partnership with LUX Tennis. Taking place from 18-19 August 2026, the limited-availability experience combines elite coaching with one of the world's most spectacular island destinations, giving padel enthusiasts the chance to sharpen their game while learning directly from one of the sport's biggest stars. Ortega made history in 2019 by becoming the youngest player ever to reach the World No.1 ranking on the World Padel Tour, a record she still holds. Known for her...

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9Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Hotels & Resorts, Trends, Trips & Experiences

Tennis travel: Europe’s best resorts and hotels for tennis holidays

Tennis is no longer just a sport people play when they arrive at a resort. Increasingly, it is the reason they book the trip in the first place.  As sports-focused travel continues to grow, tennis holidays are emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments of the luxury travel market. From dedicated coaching programmes and professional-level academies to tournament experiences and wellness-focused recovery facilities, travellers are increasingly choosing destinations based on the quality of the courts as much as the quality of the hotel.  Industry reports point to a rise in destination-driven travel centred around sport, with tennis joining golf as one of the key activities inspiring holiday decisions. The growing popularity of racket sports has not gone unnoticed by the h...

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7Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Trends, Trips & Experiences

Europe’s most affordable adventure travel destinations for 2026

Europe has never been short of adventure, from alpine ridges to the Adriatic sea, volcanic islands and forested mountain ranges. And, as internal data from sports travel insurance provider SportsCover Direct shows a 182% increase in adventure travel and Pinterest predicts “darecations” as the travel trend of 2026, it’s shaping up to be the summer of adventure.  But, as rising fuel costs and wider geopolitical uncertainty push up the cost of travel, affordability is becoming just as important as adrenaline. To help budget conscious thrill seekers plan their summer trips, SportsCover Direct has analysed popular European adventure destinations, ranking them on the cost of flights, accommodation, food and leisure to reveal the best value spots for affordable thrills this summer.  ...

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7Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Sports Travel, Trips & Experiences

How World Cup qualification has put Cape Verde and its islands in the spotlight

Cape Verde's growing visibility on the international football stage, including recent success and qualification for the FIFA World Cup, is driving fresh interest in the Atlantic nation as a year-round holiday choice, according to UK specialist operator Cape Verde Experience. With increased global attention on the islands the operator says more travellers are looking beyond Cape Verde's well-known beach offering and discover its wider appeal, including volcanic landscapes, Creole culture, live music, hiking and island-hopping experiences. Cape Verde Experience product manager Suzanne Brown said the destination's profile is shifting among UK holidaymakers. “Cape Verde has always had a unique identity, shaped by African, Brazilian and Portuguese influences, alongside warm hospitality...

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6Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: 22-day UK e-bike cycling trip from Land’s End to John O’Groats

With its dramatic coast-to-coast landscapes and status as one of Britain's most iconic cycling adventures, the journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats has long been a bucket-list challenge for riders.  Now, thanks to Saddle Skedaddle’s dedicated e-bike trip, this legendary route is more accessible than ever.  Drawing on more than 20 years of experience guiding cyclists across the length of the UK, Saddle Skedaddle has carefully refined its itinerary to showcase the very best of the journey. By hand-selecting quiet roads, spectacular scenery and rewarding riding experiences, the company has created an unforgettable way to tackle this classic challenge.  The introduction of a dedicated e-bike departure allows even more cyclists to experience the achievement of riding...

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6Jun By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Bucket List, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: The Mark Hotel’s $1m NYC World Cup final ‘extravaganza’

If money is no object, this may be the ultimate World Cup bucket list experience. As New York gears up to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, The Mark Hotel has launched a US$1 million package for up to six guests that combines luxury accommodation, VIP access and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.  Dubbed "The Mark World Cup Extravaganza", the exclusive offering is designed to deliver the tournament's biggest weekend from one of Manhattan's most sought-after addresses. Set across the entirety of The Mark’s top two floors, The Mark Penthouse transforms into a private headquarters for the World Cup weekend, where the energy of the tournament meets the exclusivity of Manhattan's Upper East Side. Designed for an intimate group of six guests, the experience feels like inhabiting one of...

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