Sumo wrestling in Nagoya, Japan.
Aussies are known for being huge sports fans, so it stands to reason that when we travel, we like to "go to the game" in the places we visit to get a glimpse into local sporting culture. So when it comes time to hit the pitch when you've hit the road, what is it you'll be shouting about while you cheer on the home team?
Thailand
When you visit the "land of smiles", you'll be overwhelmed by the hospitality of your softly-spoken hosts. So it might come as a bit of a surprise that the sport of choice actually results in bruises and broken bones. Muay Thai, or Thai kickboxing, is an ancient martial art that focuses on striking your opponent's "eight limbs" — shins, knees, hands and elbows. Make sure to catch a match when you next visit Bangkok for some high-adrenaline fisticuffs.
UK
Be it at Walthamstow or Wimbledon, or one of countless other stadiums, a trip to the dogs is a quintessentially British experience. And what's not to like about it? You get the chance to throw down a few bets on the dawgies, cheer on your favourite hound, and drink beer out of plastic cups all the while!
Japan
If you're in Japan and have the chance to attend one of the six annual 15-day sumo tournaments, you're obliged to shoot a sake and hit the stadium. This ancient Shinto tradition is steeped in ritual and has been the Japanese national sport for centuries. The locals take the sport very seriously, though; it's not just a couple of fat blokes pushing each other 'round. Champion wrestlers are revered at the top of the celebrity totem pole.
USA
"Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the crowd." This iconic Yankee tune would rival 'Waltzing Matilda' when it comes to popularity amongst the locals. And though nine innings might seem like an awfully long time to watch this parody of cricket, if you do it the American way (with hot dog, Bud Lite and Cracker Jacks as opposed to pie, VB and hot chips) you won't be disappointed. Just a bit bored (yawn).
Bhutan
This tiny Himalayan Kingdom is a bit of a dichotomy — on one hand, the locals all wear traditional dress, worship the phallus of a Buddhist saint and believe that their country was formed by the passage of a thunder dragon. On the other hand they have Internet access, mobile phones and rate as one of the happiest nations on the planet in global surveys. But one thing is for certain — archery reigns supreme as the favourite pastime of the Bhutanese. Attend a village match and prepare to see some of the most skilled archers battling it out while the locals try and distract the opposition and generally have quite a good time.
Spain
Bullfighting pushes a lot of buttons around the world — animal rights activists deplore its vulgarity and cruelty, while supporters argue it is a socially and culturally important tradition. Wherever you stand on the issue, if you find yourself in Spain during the fiesta brava, or "ferocious festival", you might consider cheering on the matador (or the bull, as the case may be) at a fight just to witness the spectacle.
France
When next in the South of France, head down to your local village square where you are almost sure to find a petanque ground. The gravelly yard is characteristically surrounded by shady trees, and the scene of old men shuffling about in black caps as they toss their boules is just oh so Van Gogh. Either take part, or sit back with a pastis and enjoy the atmosphere.
Italy
Let's get one thing straight — Italians might be passionate lovers, but they live, breathe and die for football. Known as the most successful footballing nation in Europe, if you get the chance to take in a game in Italia prepare for fanatical crowds in the stands and expert players on the pitch.
Cambodia
Bonn Om Teuk is Cambodia's annual boat racing festival, and is the nation's largest sporting event. Nearly 10 percent of the country's population flocks to the banks of the Mekong to cheer on their favourite dragon boat, give thanks to the moon, and have a great big party. If you find yourself in the Khmer Kingdom in November, make sure to include this fest as part of your itinerary.
Ireland
The ancient Gaelic traditional sport of hurling is alive and well in Eire. Borrow a hurley, or playing stick, from a local mate, and try to finesse the sliotar (ball) down to your opponent's goal. Or just kick back with a Guinness on the sidelines! It's just as fun.
Canada
Canadians are absolutely mad about their hockey, eh. I mean, what's not to love? Beer — check. Fast paced action — check. And violence — triple (body) check! Get as close to the plexiglass as you can when you attend one of these high-adrenaline matches and cheer on your chosen Gretzky.
Switzerland
Ya know that ridiculous looking sport you see when the Winter Olympics is on in the background — the one with players frantically sweeping a skating rink in front of a slow moving discus? Well, that's called curling. And there is a curling club in nearly every Swiss village and town! So take a break from the slopes and head to the stadium for a bit of a chuckle at this national pastime.
India
Undoubtedly the most popular sport in all of India, cricket is almost tantamount to religion in the vast nation. Expect to see precision on par with or better than you'd expect at the SCG, but with a crowd as enthusiastic as at an English football game. Cricket transcends caste and politics in India, so it really is the people's sport.
China
China's passion for ping-pong was highlighted in the film Forrest Gump, but it wasn't just movie magic. In fact, "ping-pong diplomacy" paved the way for Richard Nixon's momentous visit in 1972, when US table tennis players were invited to visit China the year before. They were first group of Americans allowed into the country since 1949. Ping pong for world peace!
Hong Kong
Badminton found its beginnings in ancient Greece, but today the sport is most fervently followed in Hong Kong. Head down to the stadium in Honkers and you'll have the chance to see some of the best players in the world compete. "Shuttlecocking's" been a part of the Olympic roster since 1992.
What's your favourite "local" sporting experience from abroad?
