Discover the Spirit of Tokyo Right Here in the UK
This year, one of the world’s most anticipated and loved sporting events is taking place in the vibrant city of Tokyo from 23rd July - 8th August. While we may not be able to travel to Japan's capital city to experience the major international multi-sport event in person, with just under half (40%)* of UK travellers excited to attend sporting events once local restrictions are lifted, why not simply soak up the atmosphere and bask in the opportunity to explore the spirit of Tokyo right here in the UK? If the sporting buzz is inspiring you to try a new activity or you are searching for a Japanese experience a little closer to home, Booking.com, with its mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, has hand-picked the finest destinations across the UK to help get you into that sporting spirit when it’s safe and responsible to do so.
Compton Acres, England
Experience the heart of Japan while recharging your active batteries and finding your inner zen as you take a walk around beautiful Japanese Gardens surrounded by spectacular plants native to Japan that can be found in Compton Acres. Once you have found your zen, Compton Acres is not far from an array of beaches such as Sandbank Beach, Branksome Chine and Alum Chine Beach, perfect for even more relaxation.
Where to stay:
The Canford is perfectly situated for nature enthusiasts as it’s located just outside Compton Acres. This stylish accommodation also provides guests with the opportunity for a variety of sporting activities with a short bike ride to Sandbanks Beach to spend the day running along the beach or taking a dip in the sea.
This maritime city is home to bronze medal holder and retired judoka, Sally Conway, who competed for Team GB in the 2012 and the 2016, and who had previously embraced the city of Tokyo for herself in 2019 where she competed at the 2019 World Judo Championships. If you fancy being the next Judo champion or just looking for something active to do, take a trip to one of Bristol’s various Judo centres. Or to treat your tastebuds to a Japan-inspired dinner - Bristol boasts some of the country’s most esteemed sushi restaurants.
Where to stay:
Offering views of the Clifton Downs or the city centre, the luxury Number 38 Clifton hotel is perfect for gaining the best of both worlds. The boutique hotel has a small garden perfect for a morning workout and is located just a short drive away from the city centre, so you’ll have access to all other sporting activities you need on your doorstep.
Set in a 400-acre park, Dorney Lake is a purpose-built rowing lake in the village of Dorney. The lake hosted the rowing and canoe sprints events for the big games in 2012, where crowds were roaring on the athletes from the lush green riverbank. Whilst you are visiting, explore and reconnect with the outdoors by taking a walk through the scenic nature conservation area which can lead into Windsor, a regal town where you will find many tempting dining options, an impressive shopping experience and let’s not forget the beautiful Windsor Castle.
Where to stay:
Live like a champion in the impressive Monkey Island Estate, a world-class Estate for those who seek a Gold medal level status. The hotel is situated a short bike ride from Dorney Lake, but for those who want to bask in sporting facilities onsite, guests can enjoy the fitness centre and golf course. And after a long day of activities, you can wind down in the spa and wellness centre.
The UK boasts an array of iconic stadiums, but the national stadium of Wales is like no other as it boasts the first fully retractable stadium roof in the UK. Feel connected to games being hosted in Japan as you visit the Stadium which hosted the first ever summer prestigious international football event. Once you have explored the stadium, take a trip around Cardiff’s bay, splurge in the shopping centre or embrace in a unique shopping experience at the Cardiff Central Market.
Where to stay:
Just a short walk from Principality Stadium, you’ll find Aaron Wise Apartments. The apartment boasts views of the River Taff, and if seeking an adventure is your thing, the contemporary apartment is conveniently located close to Cardiff International White Water centre.
Edinburgh, Scotland’s hilly capital, is home to Sir Chris Hoy, MBE, a former track cyclist who represented Great Britain and competed at a prestigious international level, so why not follow in his sporting footsteps on a journey to his hometown, where it all began. Edinburgh features an array of cycle routes, which spoil all levels of cyclists with scenic views of Scotland’s capital. For aspiring, competitive cyclists, there are ambitious routes that go beyond Edinburgh as you venture to the North of Scotland.
Where to stay:
Ideally situated in the heart of Edinburgh, the Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile lands itself on the Royal Mile, surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants nearby. Guests can head out for a day of adventure and sports with Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat and Lochend Park all located a few miles within this Aparthotel. If you don’t want to venture out too far from the city centre, guests can enjoy a stroll through the cobbled streets of Edinburgh and sample local delicacies such as Haggis or beverages like Whisky and Gin.
Booking.com is sharing Getaway Deals for travellers to use when booking their spring and summer 2021 getaways, as it becomes safe to do so. Discounts start at 15 percent and are valid for stays until 30 September 2021. In addition, Booking.com is bringing the great value of its Genius program to even more customers by giving all account holders access to the program’s Level 1 benefits, with no minimum number of previous bookings to qualify, including access to exclusive 10% discounts at hundreds of thousands of participating properties around the world. All travellers have to do is download the Booking.com app, log in and look for the Genius logo to identify associated benefits, discounts and perks.
*Research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who are planning to travel in the next 12 months. In total 28,042 respondents across 28 countries and territories were polled (including 1003 from Argentina, 1002 from Australia, 1000 from Brazil, 1001 from Canada, 1000 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 1001 from Croatia, 1003 from Denmark, 1002 from France, 1005 from Germany, 1004 from Hong Kong, 1000 from India, 1002 from Israel, 1000 from Italy, 1000 from Japan, 1002 from Mexico, 1000 from Netherlands, 1000 from New Zealand, 1003 from Russia, 1000 from Singapore, 1003 from South Korea, 1005 from Spain, 1001 from Sweden, 1000 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 1000 from UK, 1000 from USA and 1000 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in January 2021.