Six "Ace" Destinations that Offer a Grand Slam Experience
This year, almost a quarter (24%) of global travelers will book trips to coincide with a sporting event or experience, according to recent research from Booking.com. With various Grand Slam tennis tournaments in France, the UK and the US fast approaching, Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travelers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has identified some of the best locations** for tennis fans from its more than 28 million listings across over 148,000 destinations. So even if you can’t get your hands-on courtside tickets to take in the action, these ace destinations and places to stay can still offer a grand slam experience.
Palm Desert, USA
Located at the heart of the Coachella Valley in Southern California, Palm Desert is a lively city featuring trendy art galleries, live entertainment and prestigious tennis clubs. It’s also host to an annual Masters tournament, so it’s no surprise that it’s also one of the top destinations endorsed for tennis by Booking.com travelers. All year round it’s also home to what’s often referred to as “the best kept secret in the Coachella Valley”, the Palm Desert Tennis Club. Founded by Wimbledon finalist Beverly Fleitz, the Palm Desert Tennis Club is spread across over 20 acres and offers lessons and organized games or leagues for players of all levels.
Where to Stay: Just a short drive from the Palm Desert Tennis Club, Hotel Paseo offers the perfect mix of leisure and luxury. If the day’s matches at the nearby club weren’t enough, guests can utilise the onsite fitness center and tennis court before heading over to the spa lounge for a well-earned break. Ideal for the one in three (35%) of global travelers who look for facilities such as swimming pool, fitness room, spa or food services when booking their next stay.
Umag, Croatia
Croatia may seem like a surprising addition to the list, but it’s host to a major ATP tennis tournament every summer, making it a top pick for tennis as endorsed by travelers using Booking.com. Thanks to Croatia’s warm Mediterranean climate, it offers year-round tennis opportunities. The Umag Tennis Academy in Istria is the official regional center for the Croatian Tennis Association and boasts 26 tennis courts for tournaments and lessons.
Where to stay: A short drive from the Umag Tennis Academy and a short walk from the ATP Stadium, which hosts the annual ATP tennis tournament, the Meliá Istrian Villas for Plava Laguna are well placed for tennis fans. The spacious villas are nestled amongst great amenities for guests along the coast and even have onsite tennis courts.
New York City, USA
Famously the home of Flushing Meadows Corona Park and host of the US-based Grand Slam tournament in Queens, New York City is one of the top-rated tennis destinations for Booking.com travelers. When taking in other sites, tennis fans can also arrange a match themselves in the iconic Central Park at the Tennis Center at 93rd Street.
Where to stay: Just a short stroll from courtside at the Central Park Tennis Center the Hotel Beacon offers quiet and comfortable accommodation in a range of rooms and suites. Guests who prefer to cater for themselves can opt for a suite with a fully-equipped kitchenette, while those looking to eat out will be spoilt for choice at the city’s plethora of restaurant options.
Eastbourne, United Kingdom
In the run up to the famous Grand Slam tennis tournament in early July, Eastbourne’s grass courts showcase some of the world’s best tennis players. Throughout the year, the courts in Eastbourne are also home to a number of international tournaments as well as free events and matches. Whether visiting to catch a game, set and match or to soak up the atmosphere nearby, it’s easy to understand why Eastbourne is a top rated destination for tennis lovers.
Where to stay: Overlooking the Devonshire Park, Ravilious is a great Bed & Breakfast for tennis travelers. Located in a converted Victorian House, this British seaside home boasts unique design elements and original artwork throughout. The property offers a hearty home cooked English breakfast to start the day for those planning to exert some energy on a court themselves.
Melbourne, Australia
Another highly endorsed destination by Booking.com travelers is Melbourne, Australia - which is also host to the Australian-based Grand Slam tournaments This annual event kicks off the tennis calendar for the year, with the tournament taking place in January. Melbourne Park, located in the heart of the city, is home to a whopping 43 tennis courts, with three arenas for the matches.
Where to stay: Great for tennis fans, the 381 Cremorne Apartments are just a short 15-minute walk from the Melbourne Park arenas. Many of the apartments offer a balcony with views of the park itself and all are fully furnished and perfect for preparing a lovely meal in the kitchens before or after a fun-filled day at the park.
Paris, France
Although lesser-known for its tennis appeal than the city’s other famous selling points amongst Booking.com travelers, Paris is home each year to one of the four annual majors, which draws crowds from around the world. For travelers looking to learn about the history of the sport, there’s also a tennis museum on the grounds of Roland-Garros while Tennis de l’Atlantique is a court above a bustling train station for those looking to play a match themselves in a unique city setting.
Where to stay: HotelHome Paris 16 is a home away from home for those visiting for the Grand Slam tennis tournament. Guests will love being a short walk or journey on public transport from the Stade Roland Garros tennis venue and this Aparthotel can even organize babysitting services for those travelling with smaller children who don’t yet share their love for tennis.