5 Unusual Polo Destinations
Polo is an elite sport which was initially only popular among luxurious English estates. Later on, courtesy to its nobility, wealth, power and prestige, the game was able to expand its horizon to touch some remarkable destinations all around the world. Now, while you might already be informed about the various typical venues, there are quite a few hidden terrains where this oldest equestrian sport is enjoyed by a large number of enthusiasts. Let us venture a little deeper into this thought, and comprehend five of these extraordinary fields that bring you a homogeneous mixture of tradition, culture, and thrilling matches in ways you've never imagined possible.
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- The Pampas, Argentina
Argentina, the birthplace of one of the greatest football players of all time, Leonel Messi, is also known to introduce a captivating twist among Polo enthusiasts. 'Gaucho Polo' holds the spotlight when it comes to this locale, providing you with a rustic and authentic rendition of the sport.
Skilled horsemen, also known as gauchos, expertly showcase their abilities to engage themselves in this exhilarating game. The terrain here runs wild as long as your eyes can follow, immersing them in a turf sea. This creates a clear sight of the excitement created by Polo players on the field.
Meadows here are more natural and raw, unlike any other polished or artificial turfs across the world. Here, you will be able to see a clear correlation between all the players, their admirable partners, and the land they proudly call their home. The unmatched simplicity and quality of the game witnessed here easily surpasses any other venue, making the game come to life.
If you're a Polo fan as well as an admirer of the beautiful nature, visiting Pampas might be a magical choice you make. Pump yourself up glancing Polo in its purest form!
Source : www.wallpaperflare.com
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- The Gobi Desert, Mongolia
Polo in the Desert? Yes, it is possible and a sight to behold when being played in the arid expanse of the Gobi Desert. Certainly being an unconventional form of Polo, it was given the name 'Mongolian Sand Polo', as it was enjoyed by players on the parched desert floor. This calls for a remarkable skill in terms of horsemanship amidst the natural backdrop of the desert's landscape.
The visually stunning settings give Polo a whole new dimension. The endless span of sand creates new challenges for experienced equestrians to navigate the uneven terrain, adding to the thrill of the game. From a spectator's perspective, you're in for a treat courtesy of the contrast created between the golden sands and blue skies.
The Mongolian Sand Polo captures the essence of adventure and brings more excitement to the game. It is the perfect example of the spirit of the game, finding home in the most unexpected yet fascinating location.
Source : www.cntraveller.in
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- The Maasai Mara, Kenya
The Maasai Mara, a captivating place nestled in the heat of the African Savannah, offers you with a truly one-of-a-kind Polo experience. Ever wanted to play the sport between the 'Big Five'*? Here you can. "Safari Polo", is a rare experience allowing you to submerge in the thrill of Polo and a safari adventure at the same time. Even players from around the world are interested in such an experience which pulls them to a destination like Kenya.
Let loose as you witness natural predators up close and the swift equines running loose in the jaw-dropping backdrop of the Maasai Mara. So, time to awaken the predator inside of you because here it's hunt or be hunted! (P.S.-Just a figure of speech)
*Here Big Five refers to the group of large and iconic African Mammals – African Elephant, African Lion, African Leopard, African Buffalo, and the African Rhino.
Source: www.globetrotting.com.au
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- The Swiss Alps, St. Moritz
Well if Polo is possible on sand, why not on snow!? St. Moritz, already well known for hosting a good amount of winter sport, is also the home to what is known as the "Snow Polo". Another unconventional form of Polo takes place here, making Polo a game to look forward to in every season.
Centrally located in the Swiss Alps, the frozen lake offers a surreal terrain for spectators to experience the chill caused by close encounters between two evenly matched teams. Mounted on agile horses, players run swiftly on these sparkling terrain which is a visual spectacle for anyone watching. However, there's no surety whether the magic of the winters in St. Moritz will help you keep your cool amidst all the heat eluding from the battlefield.
Source : www.istockphoto.com
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- The Beaches of Punta del Este, Uruguay
After Wildness, Desert, and Snow, now's the time to enjoy some Polo on the beach. Uruguay is a home to the sun-drenched beach of Punta del Este, which is a haven for spectators who want to enjoy the game besides the tranquil beauty of pristine shorelines.
On the sandy shores, players astride their horses making it extremely difficult for your eyes to keep up with all intense action eluding from the scene. Along with your eyes, another one of your senses are treated by a seamless blend of the rhythmic sound created by hooves striking the ground and the soothing crashing of the waves.
Beach Polo is one of the best, if not the best setting to enjoy an enthralling game of Polo. The place is an opportunity for you to enjoy the sport to the fullest indulging in the best of both worlds. Natural beauty and an air filled with excitement, if there's bliss on Earth, a part of it is owned by the beaches of Punta del Este.
Source: www.commons.wikimedia.org
