The Joy of The Feet

There’s a peculiar sense of freedom that comes when I lace up my running shoes in a new place. Beyond the usual sights and sounds intended for tourists, the morning run grants an unfiltered glance into the heart of a new place. It’s almost sneaky, acting as a fly on the wall & getting to witness daybreak routines, feeling the place yawning and stretching awake. As dawn breaks, you see the raw, authentic routines of locals; the blueberry farmers carrying their shovels & tools to work, the aroma of a bakery wafting through the air, children with their satchels making their way to school. It’s these unscripted moments that become some of the most cherished memories, offering a view into a place’s soul.

But, striding through these unfamiliar streets is not without its risks. Without the usual uniform of a phone always in hand and a backpack, I can subtly merge into the local scene. Yet, there’s a flip side. The narrow lanes, the sudden twists and turns, all become a maze where one wrong turn could lead to a prolonged, unintended adventure. To counteract this, I’ve always found it very helpful to plan a running route ahead of time. Not only does it keep me from getting thoroughly lost, but it also provides an opportunity to intentionally pass by those hidden gems—the local park, the historic monument, and the coffee shop teeming with local chatter.

Safety, though, should never be compromised. A slight misstep, an unintended alley, or even just appearing too unfamiliar can make one stand out. It’s a delicate balance, merging the thrill of discovery with the awareness of potential hazards. After all, blending in isn’t just about looking the part; it’s about understanding, respecting, and maneuvering through a new culture, even if you’re just passing by on a morning run.

plan a running route While Traveling: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tools You’ll Need:

• OnTheGoMap
• Strava HeatMap
• Google Maps

How I plan a running route when traveling

• Kickoff with Strava HeatMap:
  • Open the Strava HeatMap on your device.
  • Allow the app to pinpoint your current location.
  • Inspect the map to identify any prevalent running paths, trails, or routes nearby.
    • Routes that appear brighter or thicker are usually more popular and might offer a safer or more scenic experience as you plan a running route.
• Charting the Course with OnTheGoMap:
  • If Strava HeatMap highlights a particular trail or route you’d like to pursue, head over to OnTheGoMap.
  • Utilize OnTheGoMap‘s interface to plan a running route.
  • When using OnTheGoMap, the ‘Follow Roads’ option can be particularly handy, allowing you to trace along roads without plotting every single turn manually.
  • Continually toggle between Strava and OnTheGoMap to plan a running route that aligns with your intended path.
• How to plan a running route on Google Maps:
  • If Strava doesn’t spotlight a compelling route, switch to Google Maps.
  • Investigate the map for enticing attractions within your planned running distance. Look out for:
    • Parks
    • Notable landmarks
    • Bike paths
    • Other intriguing locations
• Revisit Strava for Connectivity:
  • Once you’ve pinned down a few places of interest on Google Maps, revert to Strava HeatMap.
  • Examine if any favorite routes can connect your current location to the chosen spots.
• Finalizing Your Route:
  • Once you have determined the route you’d like to take, open OnTheGoMap.
  • Using the platform to plan a running route, ensuring it:
    • Links all the selected points of interest.
    • Sidesteps major roads in favor of more tranquil streets, neighborhoods, or bike lanes.

Safety Check: Navigating Unfamiliar Running Terrains

Running in unfamiliar places opens up a world of new experiences and presents certain challenges. Here’s a checklist to ensure your safety while satisfying your wanderlust on foot:

• Choose Well-lit Areas: Brightly lit paths reduce the risk of tripping over unseen obstacles and improve visibility, helping to avoid potential threats.
• Bring a Friend: Especially at night, having a buddy can deter unwanted attention and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
• Exercise Good Judgement: Even seasoned runners can find themselves in undesirable situations. Gauge the environment and act wisely to prevent accidents.
• Inform Someone: Share your running route and expected return time with someone. It’s a simple step that can be crucial if anything goes awry.
• Carry a Phone: Having a phone ensures you can call for help if necessary or navigate back to familiar ground.
• Follow the Rules (or No Rules) of the Road: Different countries may lack clear pedestrian pathways or have different traffic rules. Exercising extra caution and adhering to local norms is essential for your safety.

Remember, the essence of a good run in a new place lies in the balance between adventure and safety. With the right precautions, you can explore to your heart’s content while ensuring a safe return.

Let Hop Skip Jump plan your “runcation”!

Ever dreamed of a journey that marries your wanderlust with your fitness passion? Dive into the world’s hidden corners with Hop Skip Jump Travel Planning! We’ve clocked miles around the world and can curate the ultimate fusion of travel and running just for you. Let’s turn your running shoes into exploratory tools. Contact us today, and let’s craft your dream route!