Every year all over the world, people get caught up in the excitement of major sporting events. There are generally a number of traditions involved with these world-renowned sporting events, and lots of fun to be had. The best thing about travelling to a sporting event is that you get to watch something you enjoy while experiencing a new culture and exploring somewhere new.
FIFA World Cup
Sport: Soccer
When: Every Four Years
Next location: Russia
This event rolls around once every four years, so you’ve got to strike while the iron’s hot when it comes to planning a trip in line with this world-renowned sporting event. The next FIFA World Cup is set to take place in Russia in 2018, with stadium locations in St Petersburg, Moscow and a number of other Russian cities. Why not make the trip and explore Russia while experiencing the excitement of the FIFA World Cup? With circuses, zoos, theatres and plenty of bars and restaurants, there’s more than just soccer to check out in Russia in 2018. A different location is chosen every four years, so following this sporting event could take you around the world. Plan a trip based around the FIFA World Cup, and you’ll be in for an exciting adventure.
Monaco Grand Prix
Sport: Formula One Auto-racing
When: May (Annually)
Location: Monaco
Since its inception in 1929, the Monaco Grand Prix has been known as the most prestigious car race in the world. The glamour of Monaco meets the excitement of car racing once a year in this beautiful location. Occurring towards the end of May every year, it’s a great way to finish your European holiday with a visit down to the coastline to experience the excitement of this famous event. Monaco isn’t just for the rich and famous; you too can live a life of luxury for a few days in Monte Carlo and take in the incredible views of the Mediterranean coast while you’re at it.
Wimbledon
Sport: Tennis
When: June (Annually)
Location: Wimbledon, England
Get “court” up in all the excitement of the world’s oldest and most prestigious grand-slam event. Experience the tradition of Wimbledon with a glass of Pimms while you sit courtside and soak up the English summer sun. The demand for tickets is high, and you can end up waiting three or more hours just for ground passes, so prior purchases are essential. Most travel agents offer Wimbledon travel packages which can reduce the stress of obtaining tickets for this popular event. Travelling to England for Wimbledon is definitely worth the trip, considering the number of things to see and do in London; from theatre shows, tourist attractions and London nightlife. There’s more than enough to fill your days with when you’re not at the tennis.
Australian Open
Sport: Tennis
When: January (Annually)
Location: Melbourne, Australia
If tennis is your sport of choice, but you’re looking for something closer to New Zealand than the Australian Open should be at the top of your list. Spread across two weeks at the start of the year, this grand slam draws in the big names in Tennis and big crowds. An additional perk is the Australian Open festival which occurs just outside the grounds and has a variety of food trucks from some of the best restaurants, so if you’re a bit of a foodie, this is a must-do. Not to mention, Rod Laver Arena, where the tournament is held is a short ten-minute walk from Melbourne CBD, so there’s plenty of rooftop bars nearby for you to finish off your day of tennis in the CBD with a drink and a view.
The Australian Summer of Tennis is a great way to venture around Australia. The season kicks off with the Brisbane International at the start of January, followed by numerous other tournaments around the country such as the Hopman Cup in Perth, the Apia Sydney International and the Hobart International in Tasmania. All host some of the big names in the lead up to the Australian Open in Melbourne.
Super Bowl
Sport: Football
When: February (Annually)
Next location: Minneapolis, USA
The Super Bowl, which is the annual championship game for the National Football league (NFL), has long been an institution for Americans. Due to amazing half-time entertainment, it has gained attention from people who aren’t even football fans. In previous years, big names such as Beyoncé and Lady Gaga have taken to the stage with incredible performances that people watch from all over the world. Why not get caught up in the international excitement and take a trip to the USA to see this football game in person? There’s no better way to experience the thrill of the American sporting world than the Super Bowl.
No matter what your favourite sport is, there’s somewhere in the world for you to get caught up in the atmosphere of a major event and explore a new place at the same time!