Sports travel is booming in popularity—running marathons and power walking abroad!

By MOOK Scenic Spots Tourism Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
 
In recent years, one of the hottest travel trends is “sports” combined with “travel.” Many people have become enthusiastic about going abroad to run marathons, go power walking, or cycle. Sports travel not only allows you to sightsee, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the culture, but also adds an element of fitness and wellness, hence its growing popularity. From the second half of 2016 to 2017, Phoenix Travel specially recommended four international marathon events, as well as the 2016 World Walking Congress, inviting everyone to experience world-class sporting events and make sports truly borderless.

♦ Sydney Marathon, Australia: Run for a Good Cause
The Blackmores Sydney Running Festival originated as a continuation of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Promoting health and fitness locally, the charity funds raised through the event are returned to the community through Athletics Australia, making running a way to give back.

The course primarily circles around downtown Sydney. Whether you’re running the full marathon, half marathon, or the 9K, you’ll cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoy views of the cityscape and iconic landmarks like the Opera House. As a charity run, there’s also a “Family Fun Run” suitable for all ages, covering just 3.5 kilometers from the Harbour Bridge to the Royal Botanic Garden. (Group registration deadline: July 29, 2016)
Phoenix has specially arranged 6-day Sydney tours and 8-day Blue Mountains National Park trips so you can experience the beauty of Australia beyond the run.
?
•2016Sydney City Marathon ~ Metropolitan Sydney6DaysFrom 48,800 RMB (includes visa and taxes, excludes tips)
??•2016Sydney City Marathon ~ Blue Mountains National Park8DaysFrom 59,800 RMB (includes visa and taxes, excludes tips)

 

♦Kobe Marathon, Japan: Perfect for First-Timers Abroad!
The birthplace of Japanese marathons is Kobe. The 6th Kobe Marathon, themed “Gratitude and Friendship,” originates from the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. With global aid helping the city rebuild, its former beauty has been restored. This marathon is not just about running for yourself, but also for everyone. The course follows the scenic Seto Inland Sea, featuring flat terrain and stunning ocean views, with a generous seven-hour time limit—making it very runner-friendly. A unique feature of the Kobe Marathon is its use of sunflowers as the flower of gratitude and friendship. Runners wear yellow gloves and sing together to express thanks.
?
•Run!!2016Kobe Marathon, Japan5Days-Independent Travel (Minimum 2 travelers)(Full marathon 42K)From 33,900 RMB (includes taxes, excludes tips)

♦Pyongyang Marathon, North Korea: Run to Kim Il-sung Stadium and Tackle a Bronze-Level Road Race
Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, hosts the “Mangyongdae Prize International Marathon” every April. First held in 1981, it has long been known for its secrecy and exclusivity—but since 2014, it has finally opened to overseas amateur runners.