globe trekker Some of the most awesome sports destinations in the world for sports enthusiasts, intrepid adventurers and for those looking for some pure, unbridled fun...
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Swiss AlpsSkiing
Skiing in Switzerland. Need we say more? Switzerland is home to some of the world’s best ski resorts. The snow capped Alps are a must go-to place for any skiing enthusiast. Ski resorts range from Grindelwald a popular destination for tourists planning long haul excursions elsewhere to Murren – a resort accessible only by cable car. Murren is relatively isolated and provides access to some of the toughest ski slopes in the Alps. Whether you’re skiing aptitude is at the beginner, intermediate or expert level, the Alps have it all. Head on out for some snow bound exercise! 30
AUGUST 2010
NepalBungee Jumping
Home to Mount Everest, Nepal is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Surrounded by the Himalayas, this landlocked country is increasingly becoming a popular haunt for mountaineers and trekkers alike. Breathtaking views, magnificent valleys and lush sceneries all combine to make it one of the most popular mountaineering destinations around the world. However, many tourists come to Nepal to find their personal rush of adrenaline. Located just three hours north of Kathmandu, The Borderlands Resort boasts one of the most thrilling bungee experiences in the world. Jump towards the Bhote Kosi – one of the world’s wildest rivers – from a bridge hanging over a 160 metre tropical gorge. It’s going to be the ride of your life! AUGUST 2010
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globe trekker South Africa-Football
South Africa made it on to our list mainly because it played host to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Football Fever prevails throughout the country and because of the recently concluded 2010 World Cup such was the excitement in the air that celebrities like Shakira and K’naan even came up with Africa anthems! Soccer City in Johannesburg is our must-see sports destination in South Africa. Soccer City Stadium hosted both the opening and the final match of the FIFA World Cup. World class facilities (it boasts a seating capacity of 94,700) at the stadium coupled with a distinctly African architectural design make this stadium one to see! We hope you managed to make it down for the world cup!
BaliMarine Sports Indonesia’s popular island Bali is renowned world over as a popular tourist destination. Boasting gorgeous beaches and an exotic night life, one sometimes forgets however that Bali is also world renowned as a destination for water sports. At the beaches water skiing, banana boating, parasailing and even dolphin watching are popular recreational activities. Try Sanur Beach or Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua for water sports. Alternatively you can go rafting on the Ayung River – Bali’s longest and largest river. Not only will the ride do much to hike up your adrenaline levels, but the beautiful scenic route the rafts go through is one to behold. Often you can even catch glimpses of wild animals such as bats and monkeys. Don’t miss out on this one!
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AUGUST 2010
England -Lords Cricket Ground
Widely referred to as ‘the home of cricket’, where would our list be if it didn’t feature Lords Cricket Ground in St. John’s Wood, London? Lords is also home to the MCC museum which is the oldest sports museum in the world and contains memorabilia from the most celebrated cricketing events in the world. The stadium seats 32,000 spectators and features one of the best cricket playing fields in the world. Cricket is known as a gentleman’s sport. England is widely seen as the birthplace of cricket. So get back to your roots if you’re a cricket enthusiast and go pay homage to Lords!
AUGUST 2010
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globe trekker
Cortes Bank California-Surfing
Surf’s up! Especially in Cortes Bank, California. The shallow underwater chain of mountains in this part of California create conditions that are ideal (or the worst depending on how you look at it) for surfing. The Bank holds the record for biggest wave ever surfed. Mike Parsons is the lucky man who rode it! This one’s only for the surfing experts folks. The waves can be deadly but the Bank proceeds to challenge serious surfer’s worldwide. The question on every surfer’s lips is ‘Can we ride ‘em?’. They’re certainly determined to find out. Head on out if you’re excellent at riding those waves!
Florida Cave Diving
Cave diving is scuba diving’s meaner, older brother and is not for the weak hearted. Yet cave diving lovers congregate in Florida to take part in this extreme sport. Cave diving requires a little more skill than scuba diving. Plus, you need excellent navigational and swimming skills if something in the cave goes wrong. Florida’s Peacock Spring State Park is the place to go if you’re into cave diving. Remember though, this one’s for the VERY brave. Looks like Spring Break is not Florida’s only attraction!
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AUGUST 2010
China-Biking
Rated one of National Geographic’s best picks for cycling, a fifteen day tour starting from Guilin, Guangxi takes you through rural China. The route combines biking days that take you from sea level to almost 2000 feet. Cycling surfaces may be paved or unpaved but we promise the tour will be one worth the exercise. Visits to remote villages will provide a cultural experience as well. It might quite possibly be the best way to explore rural China, so hop on to your bike and start peddling!
There y ou have it folks. of the m Some ost awes o me sport destinati s ons aroun d t h e world. like it’s Looks time to scramble your cupb through oards and f ind those forgotte long n back p acks, boo and figur k flights e out iti neraries. T
he game awaits!