Around the world on sports adrenaline…
To attend an Olympics or World Cup, getting the opportunity to cheer on your country, can be a once in a lifetime experience you will never forget. But they don’t happen very often. For those looking to fill time in between those four years, there are some equally beautiful, inspiring and iconic sporting events and venues- you’ll just have to plan for. You only get one life, after all.
Football – Camp Nou, Barcelona
Love or hate football – seeing a match at Camp Nou is an out of body experience. Home to FC Barcelona and the largest stadium in Europe, it’s hard to even fathom a more iconic place to take in the sport, even if you don’t care about it!
Tickets can be easily purchased online, creating the potential to turn a fun weekend in Barcelona into something unforgettable. Barcelona gets some of the best flight deals from the US, Europe, Australia and Asia, so getting there can be cheap!
Tennis – Monte-Carlo Masters, France
Usually played in April, this Men’s ATP World Tour tennis tournament is held at the Monte-Carlo Country Club, offering stunning views overlooking the Mediterranean and Monte-Carlo Beach.
Basically- even if you don’t like tennis, you’ll absolutely love where you are. Monte Carlo is a “small town”, so seeing players like Roger Federer out and about is a common feat in this majestic seaside location. With some of the best food and hotels in the world, Monte Carlo is incredible on its own, but the idyllic stadium takes things to a totally new level.
Formula 1 – Singapore Grand Prix, Singapore
Singapore is hot, but the action of the Marina Bay Street Circuit during the Singapore Grand Prix is scorching. Set amongst the majestic city, with iconic views at every turn, the Grand Prix is the perfect excuse for a Southeast Asian trip- and of course, a mandatory Singapore sling during the race (as long as you’re not driving).
The race was the first Grand Prix event to take place during night – allowing temperatures to cool, while enhancing patrons viewing pleasure. For the truly adventurous, you can even get views of the track from the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool.
Golf – The Masters Tournament, Georgia USA
As they say, “there’s nothing like the Masters”. For a unique taste of the Southern United States and a weekend filled with drama, at least on the course- the Masters is as good as it gets. The magnolia trees, spring foliage and slopes of the course are done no justice on television, making it an event you truly have to attend to believe.
As one of the most affluent sporting events in the world, there’s plenty of five star hotels and pampering areas, not to mention excellent food to be found in the area. Just bring your wallet- it’s not cheap. But hey, bucket list- right?
Cricket – Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
With views of Table Mountain in the background this has to be one of the most stunning venues on earth. If it’s not- please point us to a more incredible sight, because we’d love to see it.
The ground (that’s cricket, for stadium) is home to the Cape Cobras, whom you can regularly find playing. But it’s the big ticket items that you’ll really want to turn up for- reserved only for the wildest cricket fans. Watching your national team take on South Africa in a Test match, ODI or T20I at the ground is almost as good as the South African wine you’ll enjoy while watching. The perfect excuse to plan your next trip to Cape Town – this is a must.
Ski Jumping – Four Hills Tournament, Garmisch-Partenkirchen
This unique location is literally and figuratively breathtaking, the mountainous backdrop to the event makes it truly special – as well as the world class ski jumpers competing. It is held every New Year and is one of the best ski jumps in the world with its amazing architecture. Pack your winter gear and your skis and add this cool event onto your next skiing holiday.
Baseball – Fenway Park, Boston
Known only as “The Green Monster”, Fenway Park has more history than many modern cities. It’s an iconic, original architecture stadium that opened in 1912 that’s seen every great in baseball history. Whether you’re root, root, rooting for the home- or away team, you’ll leave feeling a sense of baseball grandeur in one of America’s best cities.
That’s right, at the end of the game, you’re still in Boston, so there’s plenty to do well after the game is over. If the Red Sox make the playoffs, and you happen to be in town, it’s worth it- whatever the cost. Maybe at least…
What are some of your favorites?
Copyright: natursports / 123RF Stock Photo
