Editor’s Pick

14Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Stadiums & Venues

Ontake Distillery: a Japanese whisky distillery with its own golf course

If you’re anything like us – and have a passion for whisky and golf – then you’ll just love Ontake Distillery. Located in Japan’s Kagoshima Mountains, Ontake is the first distillery in the world to feature an on-site 18-hole golf course that is exclusively for cask owners, combining whisky and golf in a way that has never been seen before.  Taking its name from Sakurajima’s three majestic peaks – Kitadake, Nakadake, and Minamidake – Ontake Distillery is perched 400 metres above sea level in the serene mountains of the Satsuma Peninsula.  The golf course  This state-of-the-art distillery not only crafts exceptional award-winning single malt whiskies but also delivers an unparalleled experience for its exclusive cask owners. Ontake has a world-first offering: a private 18-hole...

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8Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel

UN Tourism: sports tourism can create a ‘lasting legacy’ for destinations

Sports tourism can “play a key role in helping tourism destinations and businesses diversify”, UN Tourism said after the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress (WSTC) in Madrid from 28-29 November 2024. To achieve this, “public and private cooperation will be essential for the future of this growing sector”.  The 3rd WSTC gathered worldwide experts and leaders of sports and tourism at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. Co-organised by UN Tourism and the Government of the Region of Madrid, with support of Visit Nayarit and Turkish Airlines, the Congress highlighted the transformative potential of sports tourism as a driver of economic growth, social development, and sustainability.  UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This Congress, as well as the whol...

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8Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Snowsport Scotland & England sign new Partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia

Snowsport Scotland and Snowsport England have announced a new partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia for the forthcoming winter season, which will bring the destination into focus for UK clubs, athletes and the recreational snow sports community, offering an exciting and affordable opportunity for winter holidays and training camps. The Slovak Tatra mountains are a relatively unexplored area for Brits, however they offer several world-class ski resorts, exceptional value for money and the very latest technology in lift infrastructure. The region hosts the Alpine World Cup and boasts a season that can run right through to May. Flights with WizzAir and Ryanair, from UK airports start from as little as £15 with transfer times from the nearest a...

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2Dec By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Novak Djokovic serves up global partnership with Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has announced a new partnership with Novak Djokovic that will see the tennis icon become the airline’s global brand ambassador and wellness advisor.  A multi-year collaboration that positions Qatar Airways as the official airline partner of Djokovic, the partnership was unveiled at the Altitude Wellness Centre at Al Maha Qatar Airways Crew Accommodation Building. Djokovic stands as one of the greatest athletes in history, with 24 grand slam titles and a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He said: "It is my great pleasure and honour to partner with Qatar Airways, a company I admire for many years not just for its impeccable service to its customers and employees, but also because it recognises the importance of wellbeing and longevity which is a passion of min...

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24Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

World Golf Awards 2024: Portugal named world’s best golf destination

It was a big night for Portugal at the 11th annual World Golf Awards held in Madeira on 22 November. The sun-blessed European nation was named the world's best golf destination for 2024 while Terras da Comporta, on the Alentejo Coast, claimed the world’s best golf course award.  The 2024 edition of the World Golf Awards marked a global gathering of golf industry leaders, with pioneers and key figures travelling from across the world to attend. The prize-giving ceremony at Savoy Palace, marked the climax of a two-day golf itinerary sampling the best of Madeira’s golf courses. Madeira’s growing status as a golf hub was reinforced with the title for world’s best emerging golf destination. Palheiro Golf collected the world’s best panoramic clubhouse award and Club de Golfe Santo Da Serr...

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17Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Guides

Birmingham: a sports travel city guide 

The English city of Birmingham, located in the West Midlands region, has a proud sporting heritage that reflects its rich industrial past and vibrant cultural present. Affectionately nicknamed “Brum”, Birmingham is a hub of activity, boasting a diverse range of sports teams, iconic venues and major events. Whether you're into athletics, football, cricket or an adventurous traveller seeking new experiences, Birmingham offers something for everyone. Main image: Alexander Stadium in Birmingham (Credit: WikiCommons) The UK’s athletics capital in 2025 In 2025, Birmingham will host the UK’s two biggest athletics events of the year: the UK Athletics Indoor Championships at Utilita Arena from 22-23 February 2025 and the UK Athletics Outdoor Championships at Alexander Stadium from 2-3 Aug...

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17Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events

Sydney Marathon confirmed as seventh Abbott World Marathon Major

Abbott World Marathon Majors has confirmed that the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS will join the series in 2025 to become the seventh event in the Abbott World Marathon Majors series. The TCS Sydney Marathon, which will take place on Sunday 31 August 2025, joins six races including the Tokyo Marathon, the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, the TCS London Marathon, the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and the TCS New York City Marathon as part of the global marathon series. The Sydney Marathon is the largest marathon in Oceania and saw a record 20,272 finishers during its 2024 race, allowing it to pass its second consecutive assessment and become an Abbott World Marathon Major. Dawna Stone, CEO of AbbottWMM, said: “I am thrilled that Syd...

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13Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, London

Formula 1 to put on a show at The O2 for 2025 season launch

For the first time in Formula 1 history, all 10 teams – Alpine, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Haas, Kick Sauber, McLaren, Mercedes, Racing Bulls, Red Bull, and Williams – their drivers and team principals will come together with fans for a special night to launch the new season, reveal their 2025 liveries, and mark the start of the sport’s 75th anniversary year. This unprecedented world premiere event will take place on 18 February 2025 between 8pm and 10pm at The O2 in London, England, and is being brought to life by creative visionary Brian Burke of BrianBurkeCreative, Stufish Entertainment Architects, DX7 Design, and production company 1826. BrianBurkeCreative and this world-renowned team delivered the groundbreaking opening and closing ceremonies for the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix. Bu...

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2Nov By Sports Tourism News1 Comment

Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Sports Travel

Global sports tourism market to hit $2.4 trillion by 2030 – report

The global market for sports tourism was estimated at $1.1 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.4 trillion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2023 to 2030, according to the Sports Tourism - Global Strategic Business Report published by ResearchAndMarkets.com. The growth in the sports tourism market is driven by several factors, including the rising popularity of international sports events and competitions, technological advancements in travel planning, booking platforms, and customer experience, and the increasing focus on promoting adventure sports, ecotourism, and experiential travel. The need to provide unique, engaging, and culturally enriching sports tourism experiences for diverse traveller demographics is driving the demand for sport...

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2Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Sport hotels: F1 race weekend at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Formula 1 fans can watch the 2024 season finale in style at W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, the five-star hotel located within the Yas Marina Circuit. Taking place from 5-8 December 2024, the F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix could see the world championship go down to the wire and the hotel has several packages available to witness the events on the track.  W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island promises a weekend filled with unparalleled excitement. With seven high-octane venues pulsing with energy, guests can look forward to a mega line-up of entertainment, featuring world-class artists and Yas Island's most thrilling parties and brunches.  Those staying at the hotel during race weekend or attending the brunch will enjoy complimentary access to Yasalam's after-race concert of the day showc...

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2Nov By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events, Scotland

Video: Glasgow to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has confirmed that the Scottish city of Glasgow will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Glasgow has stepped as host of the 23rd edition after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out. The event in Glasgow will be held from Thursday 23 July to Sunday 2 August 2026, returning to the city 12 years after the hugely successful 2014 Commonwealth Games.  Glasgow 2026 will feature a 10-sport programme concentrated across four venues within an eight-mile corridor, ensuring an action-packed broadcast schedule across each day of competition and making the event accessible and appealing to spectators looking to enjoy the multi-sport environment and festival feel. With more than 500,000 tickets to be made available at a future date, there will be around 3,0...

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20Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Guides

Surf City El Salvador: a world-class surfing destination

Nestled along the pristine Pacific coastline, El Salvador’s “Surf City” offers a paradise for surfers and adventure seekers. With consistent waves, warm waters, and a laid-back atmosphere, this destination is gaining global recognition and regularly hosts major events on the International Surfing Association (ISA) and World Surf League calendars. Surf City El Salvador is fast becoming one of the top destinations for surfers worldwide, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, it has something for everyone. Best surfing spots Punta Roca: Known as the crown jewel of El Salvador's surf scene, Punta Roca is a world-class right-hand point break. The waves are fast and powerful, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The rocky coastline enhances t...

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6Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

World Travel Awards 2024: world’s leading sports tourism destination nominees

World Travel Awards has announced the 20 nominees shortlisted for the World's Leading Sports Tourism Destination 2024 award – with voting is now open ahead of November’s gala ceremony.  In 2023, Qatar’s capital city Doha was the winner of the award, ending Abu Dhabi’s winning run from 2013 to 2022. Dubai (2012) and South Africa (2011) have also previously won the title.  Five nominees have also been announced for the World’s Leading Sports Academy 2024 award. The nominees are Aspire Academy in Qatar, Cascade Wellness Resort in Portugal, Forte Village Resort in Italy, Francisco Grande Hotel and Golf Resort in the USA, and La Manga Club in Spain. Voting is now open until 20 October 2024 for both categories, with the winners revealed at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala ...

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6Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

G Golf Ireland’s guide to Dublin’s best golf courses 

Dublin is the main gateway to Ireland with more than 30 million passengers passing through its international airport every year. Founded by the Vikings more than 1,000 years ago, Ireland’s capital is now a bustling, vibrant city that has grown up among its ancient heritage.  There are more than 100 golf courses within the greater Dublin area so there is plenty of choice. Golf travel company G Golf Ireland has picked out its favourite golf courses in Dublin to consider as part of your next golfing trip to Ireland. Portmarnock Old: Multiple host of the Irish Open, the Walker Cup, the Amateur Championship and this year's Women's Amateur Championship, Portmarnock is considered to be the most famous Dublin venue. A very fair test of pure links golf, Portmarnock ranks at No.37 in the...

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6Oct By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

Self-guided cycling holidays through Italy’s Prosecco hills

Famous as the destination that produces one of the world’s most popular drinks, Italy’s Prosecco hills are also a Unesco World Heritage Site (awarded in 2019).  Saddle Skedaddle’s gentle, seven-day, self-guided cycling holiday through the vineyards of Prosecco begins with a ride favoured by the locals in the foothills of the Montello, before climbing to the town of Asolo; designated one of Italy’s most beautiful.  Crossing the Piave River into the heart of the Prosecco region, the route passes vineyard after vineyard, including Conegliano Valdobbiadene which produces Prosecco Superiore DOCG, and the exclusive DOCG Cartizze sparkling wine. After exploring the lakes around Revine, Lago di St Maria, and Lago di Lago, the final few days in the saddle takes riders past some of ...

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14Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Sports Business

Video: Roger Federer promotes Switzerland’s autumn in new tourism campaign

Tennis legend Roger Federer has teamed up with Switzerland Tourism (ST) to promote the beauty of the Swiss autumn season. In a video shot outdoors amid the majestic scenery of the Swiss mountains, Federer stars alongside acclaimed Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen.  Inspired by Mikkelsen and the vibrant autumn landscapes, Federer showcases a playful side of himself like never before. The teaming up of Federer and Mikkelsen is part of the largest autumn campaign in the history of the tourism board. Precisely targeting the European markets – France, Germany, Italy, BeNeLux, the UK and the Nordics – the new campaign video shows Federer and Mikkelsen humorously attempting to produce an advertising spot designed to showcase the many facets of the Swiss autumn. "I love autumn and all its c...

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14Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

Sail Croatia adds new 2025 ‘hike cruise’ luxury and national park options

Sail Croatia has boosted its ‘hike cruise’ programme for 2025 with the introduction of a new 'national park' themed cruise plus a choice of luxury hike cruise options. Guests can hike their way through Croatia's National Parks on a themed itinerary that is perfect for nature lovers looking for a relatively laid-back holiday. Guests will enjoy easy hikes averaging around 1.5 hours per day on relatively flat terrain with highlights including visits to the turquoise-tinted Plitvice Lakes, exploring the many waterfalls, inlets and river systems of Krka National Park, plus taking in the dramatic views along the karst cliffs of Telascica Nature Park. Cruising on one of Sail Croatia's Premier ships ensures they will have all the creature comforts they need to relax in style with en-suite c...

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1Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: UAE to host October event 

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be moved from Bangladesh to the United Arab Emirates. The event, scheduled to take place from 3-20 October, will now be staged in Dubai and Sharjah. Geoff Allardice, ICC chief executive, said: “It is a shame not to be hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh as we know the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) would have staged a memorable event. I would like to thank the team at the BCB for exploring all avenues to try and enable the event to be hosted in Bangladesh, but travel advisories from the governments of a number of the participating teams meant that wasn’t feasible. However, they will retain hosting rights. “We look forward to taking an ICC global event to Bangladesh in the ...

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1Sep By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Events

Road to LA28: Los Angeles is ready to welcome the world of sport

The Californian city, one of the world’s leading sports capitals, is preparing to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, NFL Super Bowl LXI 2027 and the Summer Olympics and Paralympics in 2028. In a spectacular closing ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, featuring Tom Cruise jumping from the roof of the Stade de France and musical performances on LA's iconic sandy beaches, Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass received the official Olympic flag from Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo, marking the countdown to the LA28 Games. “We’re honoured to join mayor Karen Bass to commemorate the historic handover of the Olympic flag from Paris to Los Angeles,” said Adam Burke, President & CEO, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. “We can’t wait to roll out the red carpet for the 2028 Olympic and Paralym...

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13Aug By Sports Tourism NewsNo Comments

Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

Epic Road Rides: five of the best UK cycling destinations

Dig your bike out of the shed and head for the open road on a British cycling adventure. From demanding climbs to sedate converted railway line routes, the team from Epic Road Rides pick out five of the best destinations for cycling in the United Kingdom. Outer Hebrides, Scotland  The magical Western Isles of Scotland are home to the 185-mile Hebridean Cycle Route, an iconic cycling journey taking in 10 islands, including Barra, North Uist, Harris and Lewis. The manageable gradients and fact you can break the route up into whatever chunks you like, makes it ideally suited for a range of cyclists. Abundant wildlife, fun ferry crossings, ancient stone circles, countless white beaches and turquoise waters await those willing to brave the (sometimes ferocious) Scottish wind. This is UK ...

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