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Headwater Active Holidays launches new self-guided cycling tours  
Holidays & Trips

Headwater Active Holidays launches new self-guided cycling tours  

Headwater Active Holidays has unveiled a series of new cycling holidays. Designed to inspire travellers to embrace the joy of two-wheeled exploration, the self-guided cycling tours cater to a range of abilities and interests, offering flexible itineraries that combine scenic routes with cultural immersion. The new offerings include tours through the picturesque landscapes of the UK, including the Scottish Highlands and the Channel Islands. For those looking to venture further afield, Headwater's expanded portfolio features routes along the fjords of Norway, follows routes of the Tour de France and offers e-biking tours across Southern Albania. Here we take a look at some of the highlights... E-bike across Southern Albania For travellers seeking a cycling adventure off the beaten ...
Luxury sports tourism: a key trend driving luxury travel in 2025
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Trends

Luxury sports tourism: a key trend driving luxury travel in 2025

Following an in-depth customer survey, ultra-luxe experiential travel company, Ultimate Driving Tours, has unveiled some exclusive insights into what is shaping the luxury travel industry in 2025.  Here are five of the key luxury travel trends that have emerged from the survey… Luxury sports tourism Ultimate Driving Tours has seen a surge in demand for its F1 hospitality packages and tours – immersive destination experiences that combine supercar exploration with exclusive access to Grand Prix weekends across Europe. This appetite reflects a broader trend: sporting-inspired travel continues to be a driving force in the luxury market, with 60% of travellers planning to take at least one trip for a sporting event in 2025, according to the AMEX 2025 Global Travel Trends Report....
Much Better Adventures expands cycling portfolio with new tour of Sicily 
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

Much Better Adventures expands cycling portfolio with new tour of Sicily 

Adventure travel company Much Better Adventures has launched a new cycling tour in Sicily to meet the growing demand for immersive exploration. This small-group adventure invites travellers to pedal through Sicily’s rugged landscapes, charming villages, and coastal paths, blending physical challenges away from the typical hotspots. The Sicily tour takes riders along the coastline, where they can take a dip in the cool waters of the Vendicari Nature Reserve, and relax on the beaches of Portapalon and Avola. Cyclists will explore the Baroque towns of Ragusa Ibla, Modica and Noto, and descend the Cavagrande canyon with panoramic views, while savouring traditional Sicilian cuisine.  “More travellers are turning to self-powered adventures that tread lightly and offer deeper connecti...
Sports travel bucket list: cycling the Northumberland Coast in England
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: cycling the Northumberland Coast in England

Cycling holiday company Saddle Skedaddle has shared details of its self-guided family cycling tour of the Northumberland Coast in north east England. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful coastlines in the UK, the Northumberland coast is the perfect introduction to the county’s award-winning beaches, stunning landscapes, and centuries of history.  Starting in the market town of Alnwick, there’s a chance to test out the family’s broomstick skills before jumping on the bikes. Alnwick Castle – famous as a filming location for two of the Harry Potter movies – hosts regular broomstick training lessons in the Outer Bailey for aspiring witches and wizards. There’s also nearby Alnwick Garden, which is home to Lilidorei – the world’s largest play structure.  Transferring to...
Seat Unique continues partnership growth with three-year Polo in the Park deal
Sports Business

Seat Unique continues partnership growth with three-year Polo in the Park deal

It’s been a very busy few months for Seat Unique, an online platform that offers official hospitality packages and premium tickets for live events. Founded in 2018 by Robin Sherry and Phillipa Hicks, Seat Unique has secured partnerships with a range of major UK venues, clubs, and promoters, including London’s Wembley Stadium and the Co-op Live in Manchester, as well as the Welsh Rugby Union and Jacksonville Jaguars UK. Backed by high-profile investors and ambassadors, including British Lions and Wales Rugby captain Sam Warburton OBE, England cricketers Stuart Broad and Lauren Bell, and rugby legends Sir Clive Woodward and Matt Dawson, Seat Unique also announced in March 2025 that England men’s football captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane had become a shareholder in the firm.&n...
Sports travel bucket list: ‘Run for the Rainforest’ Odzala Marathon 
Bucket List, Events

Sports travel bucket list: ‘Run for the Rainforest’ Odzala Marathon 

Organised by Kamba Africa – the only private operator granted concessions in the Republic of the Congo’s (ROC) National Parks – the ‘Run for the Rainforest’ Odzala Marathon may just be one of the most impactful endurance running events, and one of the most exclusive, with entries limited to just 50 runners.  Taking place next on 11 October 2025, the event raises vital funds for African Parks to continue their protection of the world’s second largest rainforest by allowing participants to fundraise among their network while experiencing one of the planet’s most pristine ecosystems in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The day will feature three distinct race categories to engage a diverse range of participants. The main 42km Odzala Rainforest Marath...
Emirates Sports Arena: new ice sports venue to open in Dubai
Sports Business, Venues & Stadiums

Emirates Sports Arena: new ice sports venue to open in Dubai

A new ice and winter sports venue, the Emirates Sports Arena, is set to open in Dubai in 2025. Owned and operated by Emirates Sports Group, the facility will be the only multi-functional professional ice rink in the Middle East region. Located in Dubai Sports City, the Emirates Sports Arena will be next to the Emirates Sports Hotel and Apartments. The opening of this technologically advanced sports facility will represent a step forward in the development of winter sports in the Middle East, including ice hockey, figure skating, and other disciplines. Alongside the launch of the ice arena, a Winter Sports Academy for GCC countries will also be introduced.  Vladimir Burdun, CEO of Emirates Sports Group, said: "We look forward to the opening of Emirates Sports Arena as a grand event f...
US tennis ace Jessica Pegula named World of Hyatt ambassador
Sports Business

US tennis ace Jessica Pegula named World of Hyatt ambassador

Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s World of Hyatt loyalty program has welcomed American tennis star Jessica Pegula as its newest ambassador, bringing her passion for excellence and travel to the World of Hyatt portfolio.  Through this collaboration, Pegula will offer exclusive insights into elite tennis travel, showcase Park Hyatt hotels around the world, and provide World of Hyatt members with unique opportunities to engage with the sport at the highest level. Pegula said: "I'm thrilled to join World of Hyatt as its newest ambassador. When you're on the road for nearly 10 months a year, finding a place that feels like a true home-away-from-home makes all the difference. The spacious accommodations at Park Hyatt hotels give me the freedom to keep up with my workouts and even enjoy a sp...
NFL 2025 International Games: teams confirmed for São Paulo, Dublin, London, Berlin and Madrid
Editor's Pick, Events

NFL 2025 International Games: teams confirmed for São Paulo, Dublin, London, Berlin and Madrid

The National Football League (NFL) has announced the schedule and teams for the 2025 International Games that will be played in São Paulo, Brazil, and across Europe in Dublin, Ireland; London, England; Berlin, Germany; and Madrid, Spain.  On Sunday 28 September, the Pittsburgh Steelers will face the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park in Dublin, in Ireland’s first-ever regular season NFL game. The Vikings will then travel to London to play the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – the only purpose-built NFL stadium outside of the US – on Sunday 5 October, which sees the team play two consecutive international games. The New York Jets will take on the Denver Broncos on Sunday 12 October, also at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The third and final game in London will feature the Jackson...
Rise of ‘mara-cations’: Generator sees marathon weekend booking surge
Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business, Trends

Rise of ‘mara-cations’: Generator sees marathon weekend booking surge

Following the TCS London Marathon in April, boutique accommodation brand Generator has recorded an increase in guests looking to combine their love of running with travel – opting for a hybrid of a holiday and a marathon, affectionately coined the “mara-cation”.  With a surge in bookings across its global portfolio, Generator’s properties in key marathon locations have seen increased demand during event weekends, highlighting that guests now more than ever are seeking  a blend of wellness, intense self-optimisation and a desire to see the world through a new lens.  Of the locations that are seeing the biggest increase, New York leads the way, with a 67% increase in bookings at Paramount Times Square - a Generator Hotel during the NYC marathon weekend 2025 (2 November). Berlin c...
Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort in Scotland reopens after £20m renovation
Hotels & Resorts

Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort in Scotland reopens after £20m renovation

Following an extensive £20million transformation, the five-star Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort near Glasgow has officially reopened its doors – marking one of Scotland’s most significant and anticipated hotel renovations in recent years.  Elevating the Scottish heritage hotel experience with a vibrant new identity, Mar Hall blends its history and elegance with a whimsical, storytelling design concept and warm-spirited, experience-driven guest service. Mar Hall houses 74 luxurious guest rooms and suites, two restaurants, two bars, and an enticing collection of grand spaces, cosy corners and hidden nooks to be discovered, soon to be joined by a 22-person private cinema, Gaming Room and Billiards Room. Located just 10 minutes from Glasgow International Airport, a sweeping driveway...
Valencia CF and Legends partner on hospitality concepts at Nou Mestalla
Sports Business, Venues & Stadiums

Valencia CF and Legends partner on hospitality concepts at Nou Mestalla

Valencia CF have reached an agreement with Legends, a global premium experiences company, to support the Spanish LaLiga football club's strategic growth through the sales and revenue optimisation of the hospitality areas at the Nou Mestalla stadium. Following the consultancy process carried out over the last year, the club now incorporates Legends, a leader in delivering exceptional fan experiences and driving commercial revenue for sports and entertainment venues, as a strategic partner. Thus, establishing the first major agreement for the new stadium, which, upon its inauguration in the summer of 2027, will become a fundamental pillar for the club's economic and sporting growth in the coming decades. With more than 6,500 hospitality seats (more than 9% of the stadium’s total capac...
FC Bayern Munich to host football camps at Patina Maldives
Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

FC Bayern Munich to host football camps at Patina Maldives

Following a successful collaboration with Real Madrid last year, Patina Maldives will welcome German Bundesliga champions FC Bayern Munich for an exclusive series of football camps in the Fari Islands.  With camps offered throughout 2025, timed to coincide with school holidays, football-loving children and teenagers will have the rare opportunity to train under the guidance of licensed coaches from the German club – all against the spectacular backdrop of the Indian Ocean.  The core focus of the camps is the professional training based on FC Bayern’s proven approach, designed to enhance technical skills, tactical understanding and game intelligence. Under the guidance of highly qualified coaches, young participants will not only learn precise ball control and strategic thi...
JA Sports & Shooting Club: Dubai’s newest sports hub 
Editor's Pick, Sports Business, Venues & Stadiums

JA Sports & Shooting Club: Dubai’s newest sports hub 

An exciting new chapter in Dubai’s sports landscape is unfolding with the upcoming launch of JA Sports & Shooting Club – a world-class sporting destination currently under development through an investment exceeding AED300 million (approximately US$81.67 million).  Scheduled to open in phases starting in late summer 2025, the expansive multi-sport complex will feature top-tier facilities designed to cater to athletes and enthusiasts alike. Highlights include international-standard football and cricket fields, a state-of-the-art indoor shooting range, and integrated cycling and jogging tracks that connect seamlessly with the nearby JA The Resort, a five-star all-inclusive destination comprising three distinct properties: JA Lake View Hotel, JA Beach Hotel, and JA Palm Tree Cour...
Sports resort in focus: Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus
Editor's Pick, Hotels & Resorts

Sports resort in focus: Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus

Nestled along Cyprus's southwestern coast near Paphos, Aphrodite Hills is a luxury resort boasting world-class golf and a range of sport and leisure activities. Named after the ancient Greek goddess Aphrodite, the destination offers an escape for travellers seeking a comprehensive experience that combines relaxation, recreation, and cultural richness.  Accommodation options range from luxurious hotel rooms to spacious suites and private villas. The resort is also home to a wide selection of restaurants and bars.  Sporting facilities Aphrodite Hills is renowned for its world-class sporting amenities, making it a haven for sports enthusiasts and active travellers. At its heart lies the award-winning Aphrodite Hills Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course designed ...
Golf in Ireland: major winners and world-class courses
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Sports Travel

Golf in Ireland: major winners and world-class courses

After a dramatic final play-off, Rory McIlroy became the first golfer from the island of Ireland to win The Masters – and only the sixth ever in the history of the game to win the Grand Slam of all four men’s majors (The Masters, US PGA Championship, US Open and The Open Championship). For a small island on the edge of Europe, Ireland is a powerhouse when it comes to golf, with McIlroy, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke and Shane Lowry all recent major winners.  With world-class courses in some of the most spectacular locations on the planet, it’s not surprising that Northern Ireland is where McIlroy first honed his skills. McIlroy first joined Holywood Golf Club at the age of seven, becoming the club’s youngest ever member. Set high in the Holywood Hills of Count...
Cycling holidays inspired by Europe’s Grand Tours
Editor's Pick, Hotels & Resorts

Cycling holidays inspired by Europe’s Grand Tours

With the first of cycling’s Grand Tours starting in May this year – the Giro d'Italia – and the news Great Britain will host the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grand Départs in 2027, there’s never been a better time to sample some of greatest road cycling destinations in Britain and Europe.  Independent cycling holiday company Saddle Skedaddle has a range of road cycling holidays in the UK and Europe inspired by the Grand Tours and other iconic routes, including:  A guided road cycling holiday in the Scottish Highlands  An epic coast-to-coast adventure riding the entire length of the Pyrenees  A Tour de France-inspired road cycling holiday across the Southern Alps – from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d'Huez  Tour d’Ecosse guided road cycling holiday in the Scottish ...
Video: Malaysia Airlines unveils Manchester United aircraft livery
Sports Business

Video: Malaysia Airlines unveils Manchester United aircraft livery

Malaysia Airlines has unveiled its latest co-branded aircraft livery in partnership with English Premier League football club Manchester United.  Now featured on the airline's flagship A330-300, the bespoke livery includes dynamic red lines flowing from the Malaysia flag into the club's iconic red. Former United players Dimitar Berbatov, Nemanja Vidić, and Luís Nani attended the unveiling in Malaysia.  In March 2024, Manchester United and Malaysia Airlines announced a multi-year partnership which saw the airline become the club’s official commercial airline.  At the time of the announcement, a club spokesperson said: “Manchester United has a long-standing and proud connection with Malaysia, with a history of passionate support from across the country. We have three official ...
Cambodia wins IAGTO’s Asia Pacific golf destination of the year award
Sports Business

Cambodia wins IAGTO’s Asia Pacific golf destination of the year award

At the 25th annual IAGTO Asia Pacific Awards in Danang, Cambodia was announced as the winner of the Asia Pacific Golf Destination of the Year award, while Sri Lanka picked up the Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year award for the Asia Pacific region.  The golf tourism industry’s celebrated IAGTO Awards are voted for by IAGTO’s (the International Association of Golf Tour Operators) 700-plus golf tour operators in 69 countries who nominate destinations, golf resorts and golf courses that delivered the best possible experience for their golf travelling clients in the past 12 months at the time of voting.  Golf Course of the Year Awards were presented to the golf course receiving the most votes in each of five South-East Asian countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand...
Marathon Tours & Travel unveils Shanghai Marathon partnership and packages
Holidays & Trips, Sports Business

Marathon Tours & Travel unveils Shanghai Marathon partnership and packages

Marathon Tours & Travel has been confirmed as the official international tour operator for the 2025 Shanghai Marathon, taking place on Sunday 30 November 2025. The partnership will see Marathon Tours & Travel work in tandem with international travel companies to offer a range of travel options for international runners who have already secured their entry in this year’s Shanghai Marathon.  The partnership comes as the Shanghai Marathon embarks on its debut year as an Abbott World Marathon Major candidacy race. Marathon Tours & Travel will market travel packages directly to participants as well as help them, along with their friends, family and supporters, source seamless travel options to Shanghai from around the world ahead of marathon day, along with accommodation op...

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