Marathon Travelling

Traveling for the purpose of participating in a marathon can be an enriching and fulfilling experience. Combining the thrill of exploration and the exhilaration of a physical challenge, it invites you to immerse yourself in different cultures and landscapes while pushing your limits. Here are a few tips and considerations to help you make the most of your marathon travel:

1. Research and Select Your Marathon: With countless marathons taking place around the world each year, you're spoilt for choice. You might want to run through the big city streets in the London, New York, or Tokyo Marathons. Perhaps you prefer the scenic routes offered by the Great Wall Marathon in China, or the Big Five Marathon in South Africa. Your choice should consider the race's prestige, location, course, and climate.

2. Plan Ahead: Once you've selected your marathon, it's crucial to plan your trip. Book your flights and accommodation well in advance, keeping in mind that popular marathons can cause local hotels to sell out quickly. Also, remember to register for the marathon ahead of time; some races have lottery systems or qualification requirements.

3. Acclimate: If you're traveling to a different time zone, arrive a few days early to adjust to the local time. Similarly, if the climate or altitude is significantly different, give yourself time to acclimate to prevent any physical discomfort during the race.

4. Pack Wisely: Pack your running gear, and always carry your race day clothing and shoes in your hand luggage to avoid them getting lost. Don't forget energy gels, sports drinks, or snacks you're used to consuming during long runs. Also consider a lightweight, collapsible water bottle, which is perfect for staying hydrated during the race and your travels.

5. Nutrition and Hydration: Trying local food is one of the joys of travel, but be careful with your diet in the days leading up to the marathon. Stick to foods you know are safe for your stomach to avoid any digestive problems on race day. Similarly, keep hydrated, particularly if you are in a hot or dry location.

6. Post-Race Recovery: Don't rush home after the race. Allow yourself a day or two for recovery. This is also a great time to explore the location, visit attractions, try local cuisine, or simply relax and enjoy your achievement.

7. Training on the Go: If you're extending your trip before the race, look for local running routes or gyms where you can maintain your training.

8. Cultural Respect: If you're traveling to a foreign country, be aware of local customs and traditions. This includes appropriate clothing for the race and understanding any unique aspects of the race organization.

9. Travel Insurance: This is particularly important if you're traveling internationally. Ensure you're covered for any medical issues, travel disruptions, and that your policy covers you for participation in a marathon.

10. Sustainability: Be mindful of your environmental footprint. Try to use public transportation or carpool when possible, and consider offsetting your flight's carbon emissions.

Remember, the journey is as important as the race itself. Enjoy the whole process of training, exploring new places, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures. Whether you finish first or last, the art of traveling for a marathon is about the adventure and personal growth that happens along the way.

10 unusual places to run a marathon

1. Petra, Jordan: The Petra Desert Marathon offers a unique opportunity to run through a UNESCO World Heritage site with a route that includes the ancient city of Petra, deep valleys, and mountain landscapes.

2. Polar Circle, Greenland: The Polar Circle Marathon, also known as "the coolest marathon on earth", offers runners a unique chance to run on the vast ice sheet and through the picturesque Greenlandic tundra.

3. Antarctica: The Antarctic Ice Marathon is the southernmost marathon on earth, offering a truly unique and challenging experience running in the snow and ice of Antarctica.

4. Lhasa, Tibet: The Lhasa Marathon takes you through the beautiful and culturally rich city of Lhasa, and it's one of the highest marathons in the world due to Tibet's altitude.

5. Medoc, France: The Marathon du Medoc is not only a race but a feast! Runners travel through vineyards, and wine tasting happens throughout the course.

6. Easter Island, Chile: The Easter Island Marathon gives runners a chance to compete on one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, surrounded by iconic Moai statues.

7. Mount Everest, Nepal: The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is the highest marathon in the world, starting from Everest Base Camp and following a rugged trail route through the heart of the Sherpa homeland.

8. Great Wall, China: The Great Wall Marathon is one of the most challenging marathons, with runners climbing thousands of steps over undulating terrain, but it offers unparalleled views and a journey through history.

9. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya: The Safaricom Marathon allows runners to race through one of Africa’s most notable wildlife conservancies. It's a unique opportunity to see Africa's magnificent fauna up close.

10. Ushuaia, Argentina: The Fin del Mundo Marathon in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, offers runners the chance to compete at "the end of the world", with stunning Patagonian landscapes.