Have you ever considered exploring the world of sports on a global level? See the world from a fan’s perspective and learn more about your favorite sports’ athletic history and local fandom. Head into those iconic stadiums, detailed sports museums, and anticipated athletic events. Lucky for you, sports are universal and the possibility of where athletics can take you are endless.
Mont Ventoux, Provence, France
This Tour de France climb is a sight to see since it is nothing but a tough one. The main route has a climb of 5,300 feet with gradients of around 9 percent. This epic ride comes along with a beautiful vista along the way. After your day of exploring, stop at a cafe in Bedoin for a bite to eat!
London, England
Mainly known for its art, fashion and theater scene, London is a great city for watching sporting events. Head over to Wembley stadium to witness the largest stadium throughout the UK. Check out the local cuisine by snacking on some fish & chips or some burgers & pizza at one of the stadium’s kiosks. For a great view of the stadium above, head to the rooftop terrace bar at the Hilton London Wembley. The design was inspired by the star athletes that have played on the stadium’s field next door. Don’t forget to pick up a jersey on your way out.
Great Wall of China
Every year the Great Wall of China hosts a marathon. With 5,164 steep steps along the way, it is considered one of the most challenging running routes in the entire world. Runners must train for loose stones, missing steps and many other obstacles along their way. If you aren’t ready to tackle a full marathon just yet, there are also half-marathon and ‘fun run’ options for other eager participants. The marathon generally takes place every May, meaning temperatures can reach up to a heated 104F. Spectating is also always an option as these runners will need a good crowd to help cheer them along. Many tour operators will have travel packages around this time and can help organize your lodging and other attractions.
Barcelona, Spain
Visit Barcelona to explore all of the amazing athletic opportunities it offers. This bustling city is home to some of the best football clubs in the entire world and the fans will tell you the same. It is hard to miss the huge athletic presence as FC Barcelona and the Olympic Games are literally linked in to the city layout. Head to Anella Olímpica de Montjuïc to relive the magical summer of 1992 when the city hosted the Olympic Games. Check out the Olympic Ring on Montjuïc which served as the center of the festivities. For those interested in water activities, Barcelona's Olympic Marina has become one of the city's most popular leisure Mediterranean areas. Choose to participate in the water sports, stroll along the beaches and dine in the countless restaurants serving seafood cuisine. Barcelona truly has it all.
Gold Coast, Australia
The Carrara Stadium also known as the Metricon Stadium in Gold Coast, Australia, is home to many international and multi-sport events. This stadium is one of the greenest and most contemporary complexes in all of Australia. For snacks you will find your typical pizza, fish & chips and sushi. However, you’ll also find the famous hot beef pie, which is a must-try in Australia before heading home.
Olympia, Greece
Head to the Ancient Olympic site to see where the Olympics began way back in 776 BC. This site was active once again a whopping 2,800 years later when it served as the shot put event site in the 2004 Olympics. Here you won’t find any luxury seats or suites for spectating. Instead you can marvel at the lush, low hills with narrow marble stones marking the start and finish lines. Since then, this site is where the Olympic flame is always lit before starting its journey around the globe. Close your eyes and picture yourself with a gold medal around your neck.
Belize
A diver’s paradise, Belize offers aqua blue waters for all to enjoy as you snorkel or scuba dive amongst the wildlife. The area is home to over 70 famous dive sites to explore. One of the favorites is known as the ‘Elbow’. This dive site comes with a 3,000-foot wall, providing an exhilarating underwater Caribbean experience. If you prefer a more relaxed classroom when learning how to dive, many resorts in the area offer lessons in their pools to help you first get comfortable with using the equipment. If you’re still not ready to get dive certified just yet, head to Tres Cocos for an incredible shallow water snorkeling experience. Explore the reef covered in hundreds of colorful fish and elk horn corals. Bring along your GoPro to document all of your underwater adventures.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
After hosting the FIFA World Cup and Summer Olympics, any sports fan should want to visit the action-packed Brazil. Besides site-seeing at the stadiums, adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy energetic activities ranging from mountain biking, canoeing, scuba diving and kite surfing. If you don’t know where to start, Rio is a great place to begin your adventure.
What sport are you planning on chasing around the globe? Grab your jersey, fan-gear and a big team of friends and family to plan your next athletic tour around the globe with ACanela!
Post written by: Kirsten Cusack, @kirqsak