Iceland

Iceland - Short Introduction

In Iceland tourists can practice a variety of outdoor activities surrounded by nature; when we think about Iceland we imagine cold and snow, and, for this reason, this coutry represents a paradise for winter sports, such as skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, trekking on glaciers, but there are also a lot of other possibilities, for example cannoning on the lakes, horse riding, sport fishing, cycling and golf.

Sleigh Dogs And Snowmobiles 

A particular activity to try all year round is sleigh dog, which is an excursion on slide moved by huskies. People can participate to tours organized specially for tourists, and it’s really fun and a beautiful experience, but it’s important to follow the instructions of the guide and not to go away alone, because it’s seriously dangerous. This activity has an important traditional value, because it has been the only means of transport in these areas for a long time, also until the sixties.However you can do also an excursion on a snowmobile, although it’s a little expensive. It’s easy to find agencies which provide the necessary equipment, and this experience will be certainly amazing, in particular if the weather will be nice.

Trekking in Iceland

In Iceland, tourist season starts in June in ends in late August, when last snow melts and night becomes day, touristic industry starts to work very hard; hotels open, buses begin to move around and outdoor activities start to be organised. 

Even if icelanders love spending time outside, generally they spend more time at work instead of having fun. For this reason, activities organized by agencies are addressed more to outside visitors. 

Trekking is the best way to discover Iceland but, even in summertime, bad or good weather can make the difference between the most incredible journey in your life and the worst rainy experience ever, but if you want to visit Iceland you should consider that bad weather or suddenly storms are part of Iceland's essence.

 
Trekking in Hornstandir

Tourists can enjoy many different tours, in order to satisfy their inner desire of adventure and nature. The most popular starting point of tours is in the old village of Sæból, from whom tourists can reach the oldest Norwegian whale station only by foot across the iconic coast.
This tour in Hornstandir will also head tourists through Glumsdalur valley in wich they will find the graceful lake of Fljótavatn.
It is important to ask for advice before starting every walking tours because paths in the coast aren't very defined and sometimes they are dangerous and certain paths could be inaccessible during winter beacuase of snow.
  
Rafting

In the South Iceland the most popular attraction is river rafting, here agencies organised tours, especially in the Golden Circle, available with pick-up directly from Reykjavík city.
The canoes are inflated and contain a self rescue, meaning that they do not fill with water and they are easy to maneuver. Two or three people sit together in the canoe under the watchful eyes of a guide in a raft.
For 20 years the River Fun rafting trip has been Iceland´s most popular adventure activity for all the crazy tourists. With a perfectly balanced mix of serene canyons and adrenaline pumping waves and rapids, rafting in Hvítá (pronounced: Kveetau) is a memorable experience.

Prices:9.990 ISK per person, without pick-up from Reykjavík.
14.990 ISK per person, with pick-up from Reykjavík at 8:00 - 8:30 and a lunch buffet.
15.990 ISK per person, with pick-up from Reykjavík at 12:00 - 12:30 and a BBQ dinner.
Included: river rafting on Hvítá river and entry to the sauna.

The North Iceland offers whitewater rafting day-trip on the East Glacial River.
A spectacular combination of canyon scenery and relentless heart-pumping whitewater, the East Glacial River has consistently been rated one of Europe's best rafting rivers and topped popular guide books' lists of Iceland's "must-do" highlights. This whitewater adventure delivers an unforgettable journey into the beauty of Iceland's river wilderness and a dose of adrenaline strong enough to satisfy the most powerful of cravings!
What to Bring:
– Thermal underwear
– Wool sweater
– Fleece pants
– Thick wool socks
– Dry change of clothes for after the trip 


Be prepared to get wet! All clothing worn on the river should be made of fleece, wool, or other synthetic materials that keep their insulating ability when wet. NO COTTON!

Prices:
19.990 ISK per person without pick-up.
24.990 ISK per person with pick-up from Akureyri.
Includes: all rafting equipment (drysuits, helmets, PFDs, booties, gloves), professional guides & safety kayakers, transportation between rafting base and the river, riverside refreshments, Iceland's best rafting experience!


 Icelandic Horse
The Icelandic horse is a breed of horse typical of Iceland and they are one of the purest breeds of horses in the world. They are strong and small in fact sometimes they are called also Icelandic pony.
They were the only means of transport until 1900 in fact they helped a lot of farmers to cultivate land or delivered the post, so they were very important. 
Now there is a law against people who want to export this animals from Iceland.
Vikings brought this horses to Iceland and then fortunately they have adapted perfectly to Icelandic’s cold and  wild environment, for example they have survived thought volcanic eruptions.
There are official Icelandic horserace, the first was in 1874 at Akureyri.
This animals are also venerated in Nordic mythology.
There are a lot of tour that people (in particular tourists or visitors) can enjoy: for example in two hours “the lava tour”, where they can see the helgafell volcano, or “the heritage tour” where they can see the Icelandic’s agriculture.
In Iceland horse trekking is very popular so it’s very important for the economy of this country because tourists are fascinated by horses.


Sport Tour In Reykjavik, Fishing and whales watching
This is the perfect tour for fishing sport lovers and for all people who want to discover nature and its secrets, in fact during this tour, in addition to admire the stunning Iceland landscape, you can enjoy  the beauty of the whales and their nice songs.
Iceland is a land full of rivers and almost everywhere it’s possible to fish different kind of fishes like the Atlantic salmon, the brown trout, the Arctic char, the stickleback and the eel.
The best seasons to fish these type of fishes are spring and summer, but during summer the cost of the stay and the flight will be very expensive and for this reason this tour is organized in May, also because this is the best period for whale watching.
Target: all people who love sport fishing and nature
Length of the stay: 5 days and 4 nights
Period of the tour: the end of May
Departure: from Milan by schedule flight
Accommodation: ***hotel with full board
Means of transport: plane
Price: 1120€
Price Includes: flight, accommodation with full board, trip for your whales vision, fishing equipment, a guide and  insurance
Supplement: all items not mentioned above

The Tour - From 25 to 29 May 2012

DAY ONE  Milan – ReykjavikDeparture by scheduled flight from Milan at 10 a.m. and arrival in Reykjavik at 2 p.m. accommodation and lunch in hotel.
Afternoon free to visit Reykjavik and admire its beautiful landscape. Dinner and night in hotel.
Every evening you can enjoy the Reykjavik night life or have fun with expert entertainers in hotel.

DAY TWO  ReykjavikBreakfast in hotel and all day is dedicated to your passion, fishing, with a guide who accompanies you at the best basins in Reykjavik.
Lunch, dinner and night in hotel.

DAY THREE  ReykjavikBreakfast in hotel and all day is dedicated to your passion, fishing, with a guide who accompanies you at the best basins in Reykjavik.
Lunch, dinner and night in hotel.

DAY FOUR  ReykjavikBreakfast in hotel and departure at 9 a.m. with a catamaran for whale watching along the Reykjavik coasts accompany by a guide. This trip is from 5 to 8 hours long and during it, you may spot whales, dolphins, porpoises, and sometimes killer whales and blue whales. Packed lunch.
Dinner and night in hotel.

DAY FIVE  Reykjavik – MilanBreakfast in hotel.
Morning free and if you want you can visit Reykjavik.
Departure at 2 p.m. by schedule flight for Milan.

Qatar

The pearl, Qatar's man made island

Sport plays a very important role in life of people who lives in Qatar, in fact government has invested heavily on this resource, which has a considerable touristic value, and it continues to give attentions to its development. Qatar focuses so much on sport’s field because it wants to use sport to increase and improve the relationship with other nations. This country is one of the best destinations for sport tourism, and attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world, so Qatar’s government aims is to extend and improve the structures designed to accommodate this increasing market demand. Qatar is situated in the Arabian Peninsula, and people of Middle East prefers outdoor activities; here sport is a combination of new and old, because there are international and modern sports such as golf, tennis and cricket, but also traditional sport such as camel and horse racing. Tourists are free to practice the sport they prefer or they can attend a sporting event choosing between different possibilities. Qatar had great success hosting previous sporting events, for example the 15th Asian Olympic Games in 2006, the Qatar Masters, or the Doha Asian Games, but it continues to be important due to other international competitions which take place in the country, such as the MotoGP or the world football championship.

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Qatar and Adventure Sports

This country offers a wide range of activities to do in order to satisfy customers' needs with an adrenalinic trip through Qatar excellent attractions and facilities. This land is the jewel of the crown of adventure sports, for this reason, more and more tourists chose to visit this country to have a flush of excitement and exhilaration through sand dunes and majestic coral reefs. For years this country has developed facilities in order to make adventure sport  safe as well as enjoyable. In Qatar tourists can enjoy an exciting safari on a four-wheels car in the Arabian desert with an experienced driver, during this adventure tourists will get in touch with iconic landscapes surrounded by huge sand dunes, this trip will be also a dive into the wildlife of a desert region, tourists will meet a great variety of animals and birds, such as snakes, camels and vultures. The best experience for kids is in the City Center Mall which is home to an ice rink who recreates the enchantment of snow in the middle of the red-hot desert. Another electrifying experience will be in the warm and shallow water of the Arabic Gulf where tourists have the possibility to practice all water-sports as scuba diving or sailing in order to explore Qatar's marine world. All in all, ff you are looking for thrills and shivers, Qatar must be the best place for you.

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Water Sports in Qatar

Qatar isn’t so famous for its water sports, but it offers a wide choice of these to its inhabitants and its tourists. If you are a water sports lover, here you can enjoy different activities. Scuba diving, is one of these  and it offers to visitors, the possibility to admire a magnificent marine scenery which is made by the construction of two artificial reefs. These coral reefs create an appropriate environment for fishes' marine life and colourful rocks. This activity is perfect both for experts and for beginners, they will learn the best techniques to have a correct and nice diving with the help of an instructor. Another important activity is sailing, this is a wonderful experience for everyone, from young to old. This activity is suggested in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, because here in addition to the fun you can enjoy a breathtaking views of this city.
For those people who are more adventurous, there is the possibility to try parasailing, surfing or windsurfing and for the lazier there is the possibility to hire a dinghy or a pedal boat and admire the beautiful landscape. For the deep sea fishing lovers, here you can live a stunning experience and taste all the fishes you have catched.

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Camel and Horse Racings

Camel racing in Qatar is a popular sport. This traditional sport is a kind of showcases which reflects the beautiful heritage and culture of Qatar. Camel racing started in 1972 with only 300 participants and during each race the number of participant increased. This sport attracts a large number of spectators and it appeals tourists from various parts of the world. The responsible for events and occurrences of camel racing in Qatar is the Camel Race Committe. Many camel racing events in Qatar are set in Al Shahaniyah racetrack. The auditorium has a large terrace, a veterinary clinic and many other service for camels. In Qatar the most famuos camel racing is the Challenge Race. The camels race is about 10 kilometers long. The race was introduced to increase the enthusiasm and the popularity of camel racing in Qatar. The experience of watching camel racings in Qatar is something unmissable for turists.

Horse racing in Qatar is a famous traditional sport. Every year horse racing attracts tourists and it is a very important resource because it helps tourism in Qatar growing and prospering. The sport has became so popular that recently the government has included horse racing tracks and stables to nine stadiums. Horse racing in Qatar is organized by the Racing and Equestrian Clubs. A part of racings clubs also hosts international horse beauty contests to showcase love and care that competitors manifest to their horses.
Horse racing in Qatar hosts a large number of participants. The winner of the horse race gains a substantial sum of money. Over the years many new sports have emerged but horse racing still hasn't lost its magic and its popularityamong the masses.

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Losail International Circuit

Losail international circuit is a motor racing circuit located in the capital of Qatar (QA), Doha, in the Persian gulf, near the desert. It is the only circuit in Middle East hosting a Grand Prix motorcycle racing. Apart from Moto GP, the track organizes other events like Rallies, SuperBike and national events. This track cost $58 million USD and required dedication from almost 1000 workers. The Marlboro Grand Prix Of Qatar of the 2nd October 2004 was the inaugural event and Sete Gibernau won it. The track is long 5.380 kilometers and it is surrounded by artificial grass because the organization want to prevent the circuit by the sand of desert. Permanent outdoor lighting was built in 2008, and so Qatar celebrated the first night time grand prix in history. This innovation was a success and has continued to be, in fact it became one of the most important and spectacular event on the motoGP calendar. The ticket cost between 15,00 and 31,00 Euros but there are also two tipes of tickets for Vips: Vip tickets (550 euros) or Vip village (940-715 euros).

Bhutan

Sports in Bhutan

The kingdom of Bhutan or just Bhutan is a landlocked state in South Asia and it is near the Himalayas, Republic of India, Republic of China, Nepal and Bangladesh.
Many sports are popular in Bhutan: traditional sports but also international games.
 In fact the most important traditional sport is Archery that is the national sport. It is very important for the population but also for tourists.
Other traditional sports are Khuru, Soksom, degor,  Langthab, Jigdum and Pungdo.
Football is the most popular modern sport in Bhutan (futsal too, is a variation of football). Other international sports are mountanbike, trekking.
Bhutan is a sports nation.

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Traditional Sports in Bhutan

Buthan is a country in which traditional sports are still present and still practiced.

Degor

- Langthab is a game of brute force in which two players compete in a fight.

- Soksom is similar to the javelin, this sport consists in throwing a long thin bamboo. This thin bamboo must spear at a target placed far away.

- Jigdum consists in kicking a piece of wood or a double piece of wood against a target.

- Degor consists in throwing a couple of flat stones. The goal is a small stick driven into the ground.

- Khuru is kind of a game of darts played with different targets set 20 meters away. This is one of the few traditional sports played in urban areas during holidays.

- Pungdo or shot put is also one of traditional sports which survive today.

- Archery is the national sport. Today people prefer more modern equipment to a traditional one, for this reason, archery is becoming more and more modern in Bhutan.

In most traditional Bhutanese sports, women take part as cheerleaders, singers and scoffers.

Langthab

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Archery: a National Sport

The Bhutanese national sport is archery, and it has not only a traditional value, but also an important touristic aspect, because this sport represents a distinctive element of this country. Archery Competitions are preceded by a lot of preparations, and also the astrologers are consulted to consider the best day for the challenge and the most favorable sequence of throws for players. Competitions are absolutely reserved to men and, according to the tradition, women can’t touch the bow of an archer because people think that this can bring bad luck. Archeries use modern bows or also traditional bows of bamboo; the target is 20 cm long and 60 cm high, and it is usually situated at 150 m of distance from the archer, while the Olympic standard is of 50 m of distance. The atmosphere during these races is really happy, fun, with dances and songs, and you can see the incredible talent and professionalism of players. The Bhutan National Archery Federation organizes two national archery tournament a year, but every week other smaller competitions take place, such as the duels between villages.

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Mountain Biking in Bhutan

On and off the numerous paths, Bhutan has always a lot of enchantments to offer, this is the reason why, more and more tourists chose to visit Bhutan by bike. Traffic is maily significant on the road which links the capital city of this country, Thimpu, with the neighboring Phuntsholing.

The Hymalayan Valley

In Bhutan there are different reception centers in which tourists can rent a bike and move around through breathtaking landscapes and iconic valleys, these centers also provide bike equipement and competent local guide who drives you around the country.

An interesting trip that tourists can enjoy is in Hymalayan Kingdom, this unforgettable riding includes the visit of the amazing Punakha Valley where tourists can get in touch with monasteries, ancient temples and far away villages. This trip is the experience of a lifetime, an exciting adventure that realize every sportives-tourists' need; enter in contact whit a drammatic landscapes in a completely sustainable way, riding a mountain bike in the Hymalaya's shadow.

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Trekking in Bhutan

The most important Bhutan paths were, in the past, the largest communication routes.

Today these streets are one of the most important touristic attractions, especially for mountains-lovers and for sport-addicts. Here, trekking is one of the most popular activities both for Bhutan inhabitants and for tourists.

Trekking offers the possibility to enter in contact with the nature and with the population, discovering traditions and customs. On the Bhutan mountains you can enjoy different landscapes, from a rural scenery to high snowy peaks.

In this coutry, tourists can enjoy different paths:

- Short paths, to approach the culture of the country visiting old monasteries and little villages;

- Medium paths, for people who practice trekking only for pleasure;

- Hard paths, for professional trekkers; here there is the possibility to reach the famous Himalaya mountains crossing the region of Tibet.

During these excursions there is a professional guide who take cares of your security and show you the best way to enjoy the wonderful view.

It’s also important have an appropriate equipment for the different paths that you want undertake.

Switzerland

Switzerland and Sports

Switzerland offers many sporting experiences both in winter and in summer. The mountain landscape offers the opportunity to experience adrenaline winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snow biking, ski tours, ice skating and the possibility to compete with snowXbike.

During the summer, tourists can visit beautiful adventure parks where they can experience the sensation of flying from one tree to another in complete safety; or the feeling of surfing on the underground lake of St. Leonard; or hiking in the mountains, they offer a wonderful view and also the  visit to the medieval cities.

Switzerland also offers to tourists the possibility to experience the alternatives Foxtrail, a modern treasure hunt which can be made on foot, by bike, by train or by boat; or tourists can also prove "the Kambly's experiece" enjoying the cuisine typical of the place.

Now we are going to present to you two different tours, a summer one and a winter one and then we will speak more specifically about the sporting experience offered by Switzerland.

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Sporting Experiences In Contact With The Nature

Swiss landscape offers the possibility to test sporting adventures in a spectacular and exclusive background, in fact the Swiss territory is characterized by incredible and suggestive views. Interlaken, which is a district of Canton Berna, represents the paradise for paragliding lovers, but not only. This area is well-known for long time due to the excellent possibilities which offers as the great flight conditions present almost all year round. Tourists can choose between many different kind of paragliding’s flight, with an exceptional view on mountains and lakes. To passengers it isn’t required any notion of flight and it’s sufficient a little direction to fly with the help of the pilot. Those tourists who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can have the chance to participate at the Jungfrau Marathon, which is a foot race in mountain, long more than 42 km. The route begins at 566 meters of altitude, and it finishes at 2100 meters, and it crosses a varied panorama, from the colors of the lake to rocks and glaciers. Even in this region of Switzerland there is the possibility to test also another activity, climbing: the guides of association “Swiss Alpine Guides” teach to the tourist how to find a safe way using rope, ice axe, and crampons. Also in this case, previous experiences or material properties aren’t necessary: everyone can participate. Switzerland offers also a lot of others experiences immersed in nature such as trekking on glacier , canyoning, river rafting etc.. so we can say that in this country there is a wide range of a mix between sport tourism and natural tourism.

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Summer Sport Tour in Switzerland

Presentation of The Tour

Switzerland's touristic image has always beeen linked with several clichés; bankers, clean cities and chocolate are only the top of the list, and they where often considered as the unique distinguishing features of the country who has also others different things to offer, such as breathtaking alpine landscapes, crystalline lakes, cultural and historical cities, art and events.

In this tour you will discover Switzerland's sport side, this country offers several opportunities for practising sports and for nature-lovers, especially during summer time with its typical sport activities. This tour will awake your adventure side and it will challenge your sport addiction.

Prices

• Paragliding in Interlaken: 157 CHF (130 Euro)
• Bike Tour (it incluse bycicle equipment, guide, and picnik): 129 CHF (107 Euro)
• Rafting: 99 CHF (82 Euro)
  
• Hoelloch Cave Trekking (the expedition can be done with a normal level of fitness): 175 CHF (145 Euro)
  

The Tour

Day One → Paragliding in Interlaken

Adrenalinic start for tourists: this day is dedicated to paragliding. This activity will take place in Interlaken, with this esperience you will satisfy the oldest dreams of mankind: flying. For practising paragliding ins't required previous experience because you are guided by a qualified pilot. You will run a few steps and then you will soar sourronded by a scenic landscapes of lakes, rivers, mountains and glaciers. After that breathtaking experience you will transfer to you hotel in Interlaken.

Day Two → Bycicle Trip

This day is dedicated to admire Interlaken waterfalls Valley on Bikes. The trip will start at 10 a.m. dnd it will last until 16 p.m. (it includes breaks). This day-trip is the best way to enter in touch with nature in a absolutely eco-friendly way. This excursion also includes the visit of Trümnelcach Waterfalls and a tipical picnick with local cheese and sausages and coffe is offered.

Day Three → River Rafting

This day is dedicated to a classic outdoor experience which will be always extremely exciting: river rafting. This adventure will last 6 hours, you will be transfer on the river Simme for an iconic experience through a drammatic alpine landscapes. Six hours of shivers in the scenic Valley, this experience will be unforgettable.

Day Four → Hoelloch, Cave trekking

This day is dedicated to an incredible experience, you will discover the amazing Hoelloch underworld in a safe expedition guided by a certifield cave guide, who will reveal to you all the underground cave's secrets, you will get in touch with something you will never forget. This tour is aviable from 9 am to 6 pm, the starting point of it will be the city of Moutathal (a private coach will transfer you until this spot).

Day Five

In the morning we head the way back home.

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Winter Holiday In St. Moritz Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing And Ice Falls

A magnificent tour for winter sports lovers.

St. Moritz-Corviglia, one of the largest ski resorts in Switzerland, is equipped with 5 skilifts, 12 chairlifts, 3 cableways and 2 funiculars. In this resort you can find 163 km of slopes, in particular:

• Blue track 37 km
• Red track 86 km
• Black run 35 km

This tour is designed both for experts and for beginners, in fact if you want to learn to ski or snowboard you can be helped by an instructor.
During this tour you can enjoy the wonderful Swiss mountain landscape with an expert guide, who show you the way to discover the secrets of this snowy landscape.
For the braver there is the possibility to enjoy a breathtaking experience with ice falls.


Target: all people who love winter sports
Lenght of the Stay: 5days and 4 nights
Period of the Tour: during winter
Departure: from Milan by private coach
Accommodation: Hauser Swiss Quality Hotel *** (5 minutes walk from the funicular to reach the slopes)
Means Of Transports: private coach
Price: 1280€ for adults and 830€ for children
Price Includes: accommodation, full board with packed lunch, skipass, guide and ski instructor, private coach and insurance
Supplements: ski hire and all items not mentioned above

The Tour

From 07 to 11 January 2013

Day one → MILANO-ST. MORITZ (about 3 hours of travel)
Departure by private coach from Milan at 9 a.m. and arrival in St. Moritz at 1 p.m. accommodation and lunch in hotel.
Afternoon free to visit the city and rent skis. Dinner and night in hotel.
Every evening you can enjoy the St. Moritz night life.

Day two → ST. MORITZ

Breakfast in hotel.
Departure at 9 a.m. with the funicular to reach the ski resort, after that meeting with the ski or snowboard instructor. All day is dedicated to learn and to enjoy this sport.
Return in hotel at 5 p.m. relax. Dinner and night in hotel.

Day three ST. MORITZ- MUOTTAS MURAGL (8 km) 
Breakfast in hotel.
Departure by private coach at 9 a.m. for Muottas Muragl, a magnificent snowy path.
Arrived and meeting with an expert guide who show you the way to enjoy the wonderful landscape during the excursion with snowshoe. Packed lunch.
Return in hotel about 5 p.m. Dinner and night in hotel.

Day four → ST. MORITZ 

Breakfast in hotel.
Departure at 9 a.m. with the funicular to reach the ski resort.
All day is dedicated to learn and to have fun with this sport.
Return in hotel at 5 p.m. relax. Dinner and night in hotel.

Day five → ST. MORITZ - Diavolezza (20 km) - MILANO

Breakfast in hotel.
Morning divided into two activities:
  1- skiing or snowboarding
  2- climbing frozen waterfalls for the more adventurous
For the second one, the depart is provided by private coach at 9 a.m. for Diavolezza, then meeting with an expert guide who will show you and teach you the techniques for a good and funny climbing! Packed lunch.
In the afternoon departure by private coach at 4 p.m. for Milan.

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Switzerland And Its Champions 

There are many Swiss celebrities who have become a symbol of this country.

Roger Federer and Fabian Cancellara are the most popular sport players,  famous all over the world.

Fabian Cancellara (born 18 March 1981) is a Swiss professional road bicycle racer.  He is a four-time world trial champion  and he has won the gold medal in the last Olympic games.  He has also won Tour of Flanders, Paris–Roubaix (twice), Milan–San Remo, Tirreno–Adriatico, Tour de Suisse and Strade Bianche (twice). Fabian was born near the city of Berne. At the age of 13 he was a  football player but when he found an old bicycle he decided to concentrated himself on cycling.

Roger Federer (born 8th August 1981) is a Swiss professional tennis player. He’s considered by many sports analysts, tennis critics, former and current players the greatest tennis player of all time. In fact in 2009 he became one of the few holders of the Grand Slam (Roland Garros * Australian * Open * Wimbledon * U.S. Open). In particular, he was the greatest tennis player ever to win as many Grand Slam tournaments in history (16 Grand Slams won), 5 wins 'row' at Wimbledon (with 6 wins in total), record of consecutive finals played in the tournament Wimbledon and many other records.

He was born in Basel and when he was a child he started to play tennis and he became a champion in Switzerland at the age of 14 years. Rafael Nadal is his more famous  rival.

He lives in canton Schwyz with  his wife Mirka Vavrinec, a tennis player, and his twin daughters born in 2009.

  

Netherlands

Netherlands and Sports

In Netherlands, as in a lot of other countries, sport plays an important role in people's life and it is an important social phenomenon. The principals sports which are practiced in Netherlands are different: football, cycling, baseball, tennis, hockey, and also traditional sports such as fierljeppen or beugelen. In Netherlands many possibilities of sport tourism are offered in order to answer the request from people who want to visit this country practicing a sport activity. So tourists which are interested in this kind of tourism can choose among different itineraries (which are proposed below), or places where they can do a particular activity. For example, in Netherlands people usually ride a bicycle to move around, so in more of 100 stations is possible to rent a bicycle and in country's tourists offices you can buy maps and itineraries to follow.
Sport tourism includes not only activities to do, but also events to see. In Netherlands some sport events take place and the most interesting are:

- the Moto Gran Prix of Netherlands;

- the KLM Open (European Tour), a golf competition;

- the world championship of canoe polo, which takes place in Amsterdam;

- the Volvo Ocean Race, a journey around the world with a ship company;

- the Champions League of volleyball, which takes place in Rotterdam;

- the tournament of water polo, in Amsterdam;

the Ordina Open Tennis.

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Ice Skating In Holland

In Holland ice skating had played since XIII. People used steel shoes with soles made of wood, primarily as a transport. The competitions began in Holland in 1676 and in first part of the nineteenth century Dutch spread the idea of speed skating in neighboring European countries. The first official competition took place in Oslo in 1863. The International Skating Union (ISU) was founded in Scheveningen in 1892 and is the oldest international winter sports federation.

Now there are many places where tourists can practice this sport. In Amsterdam there are many organized structures that offer this service.

Museumplein

In the "Museumplein" each year is set up a skating rink. It is located on the pond behind the Rijksmuseum, the skating rink is open every day from early December to late February. With the night lighting track will be particularly beautiful. Skates can be rented through the site for only 3 euro. Admission is free.

The Cobra Café, next to the track, offers cakes and hot drinks, for example the typical Dutch sweet, the poffertje.

Schaatsbaan Leidseplein

The rink is open from November to January. From Monday to Friday at 10:00 to 23:00 and on Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 to 24:00. The cost of entry is only € 2.50 and tourists can rent skates only for €5, you can use them anytime you want. If you are in possession of the City Pass you could enjoy a free afternoon or evening on the skating rink. You will spend €15 if you want to spend a whole day in the Leidseplein. Plus, a large portion of pancakes and hot drinks will be offered to you.

Winterland Amsterdam

The ice rink is located on Rembrandtplein. It is open daily from 10.00 to 24.00. The access to the skating rink costs $ 4.00 per person. It 's also possible rent the skates only for €5 per person. The track is accessible only with skates or hockey skates.

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Fierljeppen

The fierljeppen is a traditional sport of Netherlands and it is practiced primarily in the region of the Frisian. In East Frisia this sport is known as Pultstock-Jumping.
Fierljeppen literally means "jump as high as possible" and in fact the game consists to jump a river with the aid of a sturdy pole. The pole is between 8 and 13 m long and it has a flat round plate at the bottom to prevent it from sinking into the muddy river or canal bottom.
This sport is originated from the first farmers Friesians because this region has always been plagued by floods and the villagers were planning their lands to prevent the destruction of crops with the pole, so the Fierljeppen was born.
Today the sport is especially practiced for fun or to entertain tourists, but there still is an official annual National Fierljepping Manifestation (NFM) in the Netherlands, and championships are contested in six leagues and numerous clubs.
The current world record for this sport is 21.51 meters, during the Dutch Championships, by Bart Helmholt from Hardegarijp (Friesland) in 2011.
International tourists who have visited Friesland and who have observed this sport are fashinating and they have helped to spread its popularity throughout the globe.
Courses in Leeuwarden, the Frisian capital of the region and the capital of this sports, are also organized to allow and to learn this unique sport.  It’s possible also to visit one of the many fierljeppen matches during the summer season, that is the best time to go and see this sport.
This is a characteristic and particular activity that tourists can admire and play in Netherlands.

- Itineraries -

Cycling in Northern Netherlands among tulips and nature

Presentation of the Tour

Netherlands is a country of culture with a fascinating history which has attracted tourists during all times. Amsterdam, the capital city of this country is also well-known as the city of night-life and for the tolerance for soft drugs consumption, so it became the symbol of transgression and entertainment, especially for young tourists. In this tour we'll present a different face of Northern Netherlands, the one that include smell of tulips and bicycle riding.

Length of the stay: 4 days and 3 nights

Departing from: Milano, Orio al Serio Airport with scheduled flight

Starting point of the tour: Amsterdam

Period of the Tour: during spring time, this is the best period to enjoy the beauty of the flowerinf of bulbs.

Prices: 470 Euro per person.

Price Includes: Accommodation, multilingual tour director, coach trasfer from and to the airport, rent bicycles, water sports instructor, sport equipment.

Price doesn't include: Hotel tips and all items not mentioned above

Means of transport: Plane, private coach and bikes.

Accommodation: Three stars Hotel.

Target: a group of 5-10 nature-lover people who wants to enjoy beautiful landscapes on their bicycle. This tour is characterized by daily stages of 25-30 km, so this is the best tour for those people who can't give up sport activities.

The tour

Day One » Arriving and visiting Amsterdam

Meet on arrival at the airport and transfer to the hotel in Amsterdam. Our first meeting with this magnificent city is expected by bicycle. After our arrival at the hotel we will transfer to the nearest agency to rent a bike (Amsterdam is the capital city of cycling, this activity can be practised everywhere here, in fact, almost all residents own a bicycle and regularly cycle across the city, lowering the city's pollution levels). In Amsterdam there are a lot of excellent paths with their traffic lights, which make cycling safer here than in other cities.

This day is dedicated to visit the historical and architecture core of the city riding our bike; we will see the waterfront and we get involved by Amsterdam's past, with its windmills and the its lovely “plantage” District.

Day Two » Amsterdam → Haarlem (19 km)

In the morning we move to Haarlem to continue our cycling tour. After our arriving in Haarlem we'll ride our bike and we'll visit this magnificent city, which is located in the middle of the so-called “Tulips regions”, this is our occasion to enjoy this colorful landscapes, where we will surrounded by a huge sight of flower-dotted fields that change their colours under the sunlight waved by spring wind.

Day Three » Haarlem → Leiden (40 km)

After our arriving to the near city of Leiden we will start the guided tour of the city. Riding our bike we'll cross the city center visiting its magnificent monuments with a courteous guide. Leiden is just 10 km from the North Sea Coast, in fact we'll have an exciting cycle ride in the dune area, this dune could reach a height of 25 meters. After a rest in this breathtaking landscapes we'll reach Kagerplassen, an area of natural rivers with typical windmills.

Day Four » Leiden → Kudelstaar (35-40 km)

In the morning we'll reach Kedelstaar, the capital city of water sports. In Kudelstaar we can find Westeinderplassen (“The West End Lakes”), an important complex of lakes. This day is dedicated to water sports; from sailing to rowing, from canoeing to water-skiing and speedboat sailing. A specialized instructor will be provided to teach you how to practice these sports.

Day Five » Kudelstaar → Amsterdam

In the morning we return to Amsterdam and coach we'll transfer us at the airport at the end of this memorable cycling tour.

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Island Tour by Bike and Sailing Fan Fryslan Sea

This fantastic tour is done mostly on board of a big sailing ship and by bike where people can enjoy the wonderful Netherlands nature.

The sailing ship is so large, comfortable and equipped with many comforts.

On a board we can find  40 beds in 12 cabins, 3 luxury suites, all with private bathroom, hot and cold water and minibar. There is also a big restaurant with dance floor, a bar, a library, a small swimming pool and a jacuzzi. For children there are entertainers that give life to their days. 

Price: it includes breakfast, packed lunch, dinner, accommodation and English/Italian guide.

Supplements: bar, rental bike and sailing teacher.

• adults 680 € per person
• children under 12 years 360 €
• children under 2 years free

The Tour

From 10 To 16 August 2012

Day One » ENKHUIZEN → DEN OEVER

Departure from Enkhuizen at 2.00 p.m. and accommodation in cabins. After a welcome drink departure to den Oever. Dinner and night on board. Every evening a group of entertainers will entertain with shows, songs, dances and jokes.

Day Two » DEN OEVER → TEXEL
Breakfast on board. Morning dedicated to head a breathtaking beach, where you can stop for a few hours and take sun, swim or relax yourself. At 6.00 p.m. departure from Texel, dinner and night on board.

Day Three » TEXEL
Breakfast on board. Day dedicated to visit Texel island by bike (30/50 km); during this activity you can visit Den Bourg, the island capital. Packed lunch. Dinner and night on board.

Day Four » TEXEL → TERSCHELLING

Breakfast on board. During the morning you can go sailing (lessons are available both for experts and for beginners). Packed lunch. In the afternoon departure from Terschelling, during travel you can relax yourself in swimming pool or in jacuzzi or reading a book in the small and silent library. Dinner and night on board.

Day Five » TERSCHELLING → HARLINGEN

Breakfast on board. This day is dedicated to an island tour by bike (30/40km), here you can enjoy a varied landscape including coasts, swamps and forests, drive by a guide who show you the way and the different natural places. Packed lunch. Dinner and night on board. In the evening departure from Harlingen.

Day Six » HARLINGEN → MEDEMBLIK

Breakfast on board. During all the morning and the afternoon you visit the city and then departure from Medemblik. Dinner and night on board.

Day Seven » MEDEMBLIK → ENKHUIZEN
Breakfast and lunch on board. Day dedicated to visit Medemblik, here you can see Molen de Herder a wonderful, big and colored windmill. After that departure from Enkhuizen by sailng and end of tour.