What Are the Four Types of Sport Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever planned a vacation around a sporting event? If so, then you’ve participated in sport tourism.

Sport tourism is a rapidly growing segment of the travel industry, and it can be divided into four main types: active sport tourism, event sport tourism, nostalgia sport tourism, and cultural sport tourism. In this article, we will explore these four types of sport tourism in detail.

Active Sport Tourism
Active sport tourism involves participating in physical activities while on vacation. This can include activities such as skiing, surfing, hiking, and cycling.

The focus of active sport tourism is on the activity itself rather than watching or attending an event. Active sport tourists often choose destinations that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and physical activity.

Example: A family takes a ski trip to Whistler Blackcomb Resort in British Columbia to enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Event Sport Tourism
Event sport tourism involves traveling to attend or watch a sporting event. This can include events such as the Olympics, World Cup matches, or major league games. Event sport tourists are often motivated by their passion for sports and the desire to witness historical moments in sports history.

Example: A group of friends travel to Brazil to attend the FIFA World Cup.

Nostalgia Sport Tourism
Nostalgia sport tourism involves visiting locations that have historical significance within the world of sports. These may include museums or stadiums where legendary athletes once played. Nostalgia sport tourists seek out locations that hold personal significance for them due to past experiences or connections with certain teams or athletes.

Example: A baseball fan visits Fenway Park in Boston to experience the history and tradition of one of America’s oldest baseball stadiums.

Cultural Sport Tourism
Cultural sport tourism involves exploring the culture surrounding a particular sporting event or activity. This may include attending cultural festivals or exploring local traditions and customs related to the sport. Cultural sport tourists are often interested in learning about the cultural significance of sports within a particular region.

Example: A traveler visits Japan during the sumo wrestling season to learn about the history and cultural significance of this ancient sport.

Conclusion

Sport tourism is a diverse and dynamic industry that offers travelers a unique way to experience different cultures and destinations. Whether you’re an active traveler seeking adventure, a fan of a particular sport, or interested in exploring the cultural significance of sports around the world, there’s something for everyone in sport tourism.

So why not plan your next vacation around your favorite sporting event or activity? You never know what adventures await you!