While the thought of trading your carefully planned workouts for poolside relaxation might make you wince (or secretly rejoice), staying active during your getaway doesn’t have to feel like lugging extra baggage. Think less hotel-room-pushups and more walking tours, learning a martial art or hiking pre-historic forests. We have pulled up 7 ways to stay active during your next holiday.
Box it out in Thailand
From temple-running during the day, to dancing the night away, Thailand has it all to keep you active. A country full of exciting contrasts, from its mix of centuries-old traditions to its cuisine – that converts even the pickiest of eaters, throw in a Muay Thai match and you’re on the right track. Across cities like Bangkok and up north in Chiang Mai, Muay Thai camps are offered at all levels. Trade resort gyms for open-air training grounds where the art of eight limbs has been practiced for years. Whether you’re throwing your first kick or perfecting your elbow strikes, these camps allow you to embrace local culture along with a dose of cardio. By the end of your vacay, you will not only leave with better fitness but also a new set of skills and memories from one of the world’s most exciting martial arts.
Walk and learn more about Sri Lanka
Named after the high-grade black tea made from young leaves, the Pekoe Trail weaves through 22 distinct stages, each telling its own story of the country’s heritage. While ambitious hikers can tackle the entire 300 km walking route, most travellers opt to explore it in shorter, more manageable sections. From colonial-era Chrysler’s Farm Tea Factory, remote villages and forests, to Adam’s Peak, this trail combines active exploration with cultural immersion. Teardrop Hotels offers three unique opportunities for guests to experience six stages of the Pekoe Trail each from their tea country bungalows – Camellia Hills, Goatfell, and Nine Skies, allowing you to experience highlights of the trail before returning to colonial-era comfort.
Try Unusual Terrain-ing in Seychelles
In Seychelles, nature’s treadmill awaits with trails that would make any fitness enthusiast swoon. These islands offer a network of paths where your daily workout can transform into a walk through pre-historic forests. Swap your morning jog for a trek through Morne Seychellois Nation Park where a 70-minute Anse Major Trail rewards your efforts with a secluded beach perfect for that post-hike swim. Or venture into Vallée de Mai, where you will walk through Coco de Mer palms, that bear the world’s largest seeds, while keeping an eye out for the rare Black Parrot. From gentle coastal paths for morning meditation walks to challenging mountain routes that’ll spike your heart rate, these islands can turn your fitness into an island adventure.
Try Something new in Ras Al Khaimah
For thrill-seekers who find resort gyms too basic, the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah takes fitness to exhilarating heights – literally. Perched in the rugged mountains of the UAE’s northernmost Emirate, this isn’t your typical workout. Bear Grylls and his hand-picked team of survival experts have organised a collection of survival experiences in the towering Jebel Jais mountains in Ras Al Khaimah. Think rappelling down rocky mountains, mastering essential rescue skills, or learning to navigate the untamed wilderness, each challenge only pushes you beyond your comfort zone. The instructors can customize heart-pumping experiences for private groups – perfect for those looking for that adrenaline rush. For some fun under the UAE sun, head to Ras Al Khaimah’s biggest floating water park at the Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island that tests your core and cools you down.
Take Advantage of the Outdoors in Qatar
A fun way to get around and an excellent exercise – cycling has been popular for all the right reasons. Qatar seems to be leading the way on two wheels with cycling routes that range from world-record breakers to scenic urban jungles. The highlight is the Olympic Cycling Track, a 33 km continuous path that holds the Guinness World Record, complete with 29 underpasses and five bridges for uninterrupted pedalling. For those looking for a gentler or beginner-friendly ride, the 5/6 Park has a 1.1 km loop amid a plant maze, while the Al Abraj Park features a track made with recycled rubber and locally sourced materials. Another popular route is from Doha Airport to C-Ring Road. Clock your daily cardio while discovering hidden corners of the city or challenge yourself on the Olympic track – all while avoiding the guilt of skipping workout days.
Catch a wave in Kenya
Beyond its wildlife wonders, Kenya’s east coast is fringed beaches with their white sands, shimmering waters and swaying palm trees are becoming popular. Sure, the thrill of a safari is something else, but why not catch a different kind of African wave on your next getaway to Kenya with kitesurfing. The country’s emerging kitesurf scene is a thrilling way to stay active in paradise. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced surfer looking for waves that are not crowded, local surf guides can help you navigate these warm waters. From the beginner-friendly waves of Malindi Bay to the challenging reef break at Watamu Bay, Kenya’s coast is Africa’s best-kept surfing secret!
Race through history in Israel
From ancient stone streets to modern urban trails, Israel is a runner’s paradise backed by history. The country hosts three major marathons throughout the year – Tel Aviv Marathon, the Dead Sea Marathon, and the Jerusalem Marathon. Coming up this April, the Jerusalem Marathon is a 42.2 km journey through years of history. Run passed ancient walls before stopping for a quick water break in lively neighbourhoods. Even if running isn’t on your list, the crisp mountain air and sepia-toned landscapes make it ideal for active exploration. When not running, take a walking tour through the Old City’s winding alleys, hike the Masada, or float it off in the Dead Sea – a blissful recovery experience for the tired muscles.
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