Travel plans for 2008

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Book yourself a sporty holiday.

Forget going to the hills or the backwaters of Kerala. Forget Goa or wildlife parks.

This year if you are fortunate enough to take a holiday, pick up your travel bag and visit these five destinations, all of which promise to be exciting and give you something to tell your grandchildren that should make them feel envious.

BEIJING OLYMPICS
No, we don't expect anyone to be at the Olympics village for the entire duration. But the chance to be at the opening ceremony is certainly something which shouldn't be passed up.

Apparently Steven Spielberg is the artistic consultant for the ceremony. The ceremony draws one of the highest number of eyeballs across the globe on television.

Forget the telly and be there in person to watch the fun-filled extravaganza at Beijing in August. And if you can extend your holiday, then try catching some of the action at the Games as well.

EURO 2008
So what if Brazil and Argentina, the two most-supported footballing nations in the world, won't be playing?

Euro 2008 promises to be a sumptous feast of football. With players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Fabio Cannavaro showcasing their talent, it's a must-watch sporting event this calendar year.

And even if you are not a football fanatic, go there for the carnival atmosphere that is likely to envelope Austria and Belgium in June and July.

SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX
No, not because it's the most frequented travel destination for Indians, but for the fact that Singapore will play host to a nocturnal grand prix for the first time.

It's actually a chance to be part of history. Floodlights, cars driven by the likes of Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso at speeds of over 300 kph... And it's Singapore.

For those tagging along but not interested in racing, there are loads of shopping options in that city state that should not be missed.

WIMBLEDON
We included this because after all it is Wimbledon. The strawberries, the incessant rain delays, the fancy umbrellas: it's just a must-do event for any sports fan. Not to mention the fantastic tennis on display.

A tip: If you actually go there, do wager a bet on Roger Federer losing the Wimbledon title. The odds won't be great and it's unlikely that will happen. But if you are a brave punter and it happens, you will hit the jackpot!

INDIA IN PAKISTAN
It's always fascinating to watch these two rivals clash on the cricket field. There has been an overdose in the past and people might say it has lost its edge. But come on, it is India versus Pakistan. So it has to be on this and every other such list!