Sports travel is booming in popularity—go abroad to run marathons & go hiking!

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 
Recently, one of the hottest travel trends is “sports” + “travel.” Many people have become enthusiastic about going abroad to run marathons, go hiking, or ride bicycles. Sports travel not only allows you to sightsee, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the culture, but also adds an element of physical fitness, making it an increasingly popular choice. Phoenix Tourism specially recommends four international marathon events from the second half of 2016 to 2017, as well as the 2016 World Hiking Conference, inviting everyone to experience world-class sports events where exercise knows no borders.

♦ Sydney Marathon, Australia: Run for a Cause
The Blackmores Sydney Running Festival originated as a continuation of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. With the local government’s promotion of health and fitness, the charity funds raised through the running event are returned to the community via Athletics Australia, turning running into a form of philanthropy.

The course mainly circles Sydney’s city center. Whether you’re running the full marathon, half marathon, or 9K, you’ll pass over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoy views of the cityscape and the iconic Opera House. As a charity run, there’s also a “Family Fun Run” suitable for all ages, covering just 3.5 kilometers from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Royal Botanic Garden. (Group registration deadline is July 29, 2016.)
Phoenix has specially arranged a 6-day Sydney tour and an 8-day Blue Mountains National Park trip, allowing you to experience the beauty of Australia beyond the run.
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•2016Sydney City Marathon – Urban Sydney6DaysFrom 48,800 RMB (includes visa, taxes, excludes tips)
?/strong>?/strong>•2016Sydney City Marathon – Blue Mountains National Park8DaysFrom 59,800 RMB (includes visa, taxes, excludes tips)

 

The course mainly circles Sydney’s city center. (Photo provided by Phoenix Tourism)

♦Kobe Marathon, Japan: Perfect for First-Timers Abroad!
Japan’s marathon origin can be traced back to Kobe. The 6th Kobe Marathon, themed around “Gratitude and Friendship,” stems from the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. The city was rebuilt with aid from around the world and has since regained its former beauty. This marathon isn’t just about running for yourself, but also for everyone. The route follows the scenic Seto Inland Sea, featuring flat terrain and beautiful ocean views, with a generous seven-hour time limit, making it very runner-friendly. A unique feature of the Kobe Marathon is the use of sunflowers as symbols of gratitude and friendship, with runners wearing yellow gloves and singing together to express appreciation.
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•Run!!2016Kobe Marathon, Japan5Days-Independent Travel (Minimum 2 people)(Full marathon: 42K)From 33,900 RMB (includes taxes, excludes tips)

Pyongyang Marathon, North Korea is held to commemorate the birthday of the late North Korean leader Kim Il-sung. (Photo provided by Phoenix Tourism)

♦Pyongyang Marathon, North Korea: Run to Kim Il-sung Stadium and Take on a Bronze-Level Road Race
The North Korean capital Pyongyang hosts the “Mangyongdae Prize International Marathon” every April. Since its first edition in 1981, it has long been known for being mysterious and exclusive, but it finally opened to overseas amateur runners in 2014.

The Pyongyang Marathon is an IAAF Bronze Label road race. (Photo provided by Phoenix Tourism)

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