Six Destinations to Bring out Your Inner Athlete

Over the years, Canadians have been becoming increasingly health-conscious and the average lifespan is on the rise. When travelling, you’ve probably noticed that most places to stay offer fitness facilities and/or health classes for guests to participate in while staying there. But instead of just taking advantage of the fitness facilities, why not take things to the next level with a fitness-focused vacation to bring out your inner athlete and return from vacation feeling stronger, more energized and better than ever?

Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, presents the top global destinations for six popular athletic activities. Whether conditioned to bicycle among beautiful Japanese islands, hitting the pristine slopes of the Austrian Alps or riding waves in Sri Lanka, get ready to release that inner athlete on your next vacation.

Cycling – Imabari, Japan

Imabari is a bicycle-friendly destination and one of the endpoints of the famous Shimanami Kaido bikeway, one of Japan’s most incredible cycling paths. The bike route of Shimanami Kaido consists of scenic islands connected by and iconic bridges, so experienced cyclists should not miss the opportunity to bike across the series of Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridges, some of the world’s longest suspension bridges.

Where to stay: Cyclists love staying at Cyclo No Ie, a guesthouse for cyclists and backpackers, as it offers a relaxing place to rest your tired legs after a long day of bike riding. As they cater mostly to cyclists, bike hire and bike storage are also available at the property.

Surfing – Weligama, Sri Lanka

One of Booking.com’s top endorsed destinations for surfing, the resort town of Weligama is an exciting destination for both experienced and first-time surfers. More than half (55%) of Canadian travellers either have or would consider participating in cultural exchanges to learn a new skill. Weligama, also known as the Sandy Village, and home to a variety of local surf schools, may be the perfect spot for those looking to pick up a challenging new ability. Take your time finding the right instructor and get ready to catch your first wave.

Where to stay: The Ocean Bay Surf Resort is a beautiful surf resort only a three-minute walk from the sandy coastline of Weligama beach. The resort’s outdoor pool is an ideal spot to lay and relax after a long day of riding rugged ocean waves.

Golf – Quinta do Lago, Portugal

The golf resort of Quinta do Lago is set at the Algarve region – a beautiful golfer’s paradise that’s home to lush pine forests, world-class championship golf courses and golden beaches.

Where to stay: If you are looking for an exciting golf holiday in Quinta di Lago, the Diamond Villas at Vilar Do Golf by Diamond Resorts offers stylish villas among stunning championship golf courses. Each villa has a spacious living area and a fully equipped kitchen to prepare your meals before relaxing by the pool or after an exciting game of golf.

Downhill Skiing – Sonnenalpe Nassfeld, Austria

Sonnenalpe Nassfeld is one of the top endorsed destinations for downhill skiing by Booking.com travellers and a holds a reputation as a fantastic destination to relax with your family and friends while enjoying the crisp, fresh air, beautiful mountains and breathtaking scenery.

Where to stay: 35% of Canadian travellers are looking for a balcony when picking a stylish stay, so the views offered at the Alm Resort Nassfeld will surely impress. Situated 1,500 metres above sea level, this stylish chalet offers a balcony overlooking the ski slopes and mountain panorama as far as the eye can see. After spending the day amongst the perfectly groomed pistes, prepare your own meal at the

Where to stay: 35% of Canadian travellers are looking for a balcony when picking a stylish stay, so the views offered at the Alm Resort Nassfeld will surely impress. Situated 1,500 metres above sea level, this stylish chalet offers a balcony overlooking the ski slopes and mountain panorama as far as the eye can see. After spending the day amongst the perfectly groomed pistes, prepare your own meal at the chalet’s fully equipped kitchen or dine at the resort’s restaurant serving international and regional specialties.

Football – Manchester, United Kingdom

Highly endorsed for football, shopping and bar-hopping by Booking.com guests, the city of Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most populous urban areas and home to Old Trafford Football Stadium, known as the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ and the country’s largest club football stadium.

Where to stay: Situated opposite the Old Trafford Football Stadium and owned by former Manchester United players, the Hotel Football Old Trafford features modern rooms, each with a 40-inch smart TV that includes all Sky Sports and BT Sport channels, to watch your favorite football team playing. The hotel’s Café Football offers a relaxed dining experience with fun features and decor that are influenced by the spirit of the game. Visitors to Manchester may do more watching than playing football, but will leave with a thorough appreciation for the game whether their score a goal themselves or not.

Tennis – Palm Springs, USA

The popular desert resort town of Palm Springs, California is a charming destination, popular with visitors for tennis, relaxation, warm weather and stunning art deco architecture and design. Hosting one of the world’s most exciting tennis events every year, Palm Springs offers an array of tennis experiences ranging from novice to professional, thanks to its numerous tennis courts and clubs, as well as the unique, comfortable climate.

Where to stay: Featuring 11 tennis courts and three outdoor pools, the Palm Spring Tennis Club is a great property to combine tennis with relaxation. The hotel’s suites and apartments feature fully equipped kitchens to prepare a quick bite, before exploring the surrounding vintage stores, art galleries or other fun outdoor activities.