SPORTS tourism now accounts for 10 per cent of spending globally on travel and hospitality, according to UN Tourism, while research by Expedia Group shows that 82 per cent of Australians are planning to travel for sport in the next 12 months.
It’s clear from these findings that sports tourism is a powerful trend that drives international travel, boosts local economies, and increases overnight stays.
Travelling for sport – to play or just watch – can be combined with MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events), as well as trips to explore local cultures, the arts, sightseeing, and shopping.
Here’s an excellent example: Temples and Tees: Vietnam and Cambodia Golf and Culture Tour offered by Imagine Cruising.
The Art of Thoughtful Travel is making sure that while you are physically exerting yourself on the golf course, your travelling companion can join you for the rest of a more-leisurely, once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience.
Besides playing four award-winning courses in Vietnam crafted by world-renowned golf legends, you can enjoy the timeless charm of Hanoi, the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, the imperial grandeur of Hue, the lantern-lit beauty of Hoi An, and the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
Not only all that, but you can also cross into Cambodia to explore the majestic temples of Angkor Wat and the surrounding wonders of Siem Reap, where ancient history comes alive.
Where else can you lap up this delightful mix of cultural pleasures with physical endeavours to a tee?
There’s the Ultimate India tour, which features Golf, the Golden Triangle and Tiger Safaris.
You can start with the Delhi Golf Club, established in the 1930s, celebrated for its history and natural beauty.
Green with envy?
It’s surrounded by Mughal- era tombs and lush greenery, with challenging fairways, immaculate greens, and an atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Gaming of a different sort comes with Imagine Cruising’s South Africa Golf Escape.
You take the Garden Route and Coastal Wonders tour and get to enjoy two thrilling game drives through Africa’s untamed wilderness.
There’s time to drive and putt on four of Africa’s top courses.
But when you put your clubs aside you can absorb the cosmopolitan energy of Cape Town, the world-renowned vineyards of Stellenbosch, the coastal beauty of Hermanus, the tranquil lagoons of Knysna, not forgetting Port Elizabeth, the gateway to thrilling wildlife adventures.
If you’re keen on attending events abroad, you’ve still got a sporting chance to get your ticket to the 2026 Winter Olympics and the associated Winter Paralympic Games in and around Milan, Italy in February 2026.
That’s if your sporting interests go beyond golf to enjoying or watching exploits on snow and ice.
If not Italy in 2026, there are many other sports events to attend – at home and abroad – at attractive destinations.
Melbourne hosts more of Australia’s most popular spectator events than anywhere else, including the Grand Prix (motor cars), the AFL Grand Final (Aussie Rules) the Melbourne Cup (horses), and the Australian Open (tennis).
Many Australians get a kick out of attending football matches aboard, with the FIFA World Cup looming large on the sports event calendar next year.
Matches are being held in three countries – the US, Canada, and Mexico – from June 11 to July 19.
If you’re among the 82 per cent of Australians planning to travel for sport in the next year, now is the time to make a move on what you like most – for playing or as a spectator – so book your seat in the stand or at the first tee on a golf course far from home.
