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21
 May

Sporting Events – World Cup France and Rugby World Cup Japan

2019 will see two major sporting events being played out on the world stage, the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France and the Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Heading to France to see the world’s best women compete for ultimate football glory? Here’s some information to know.

France has been one of the world’s leading tourist destination in terms of foreign visitors since the 1990s. The country’s appeal lies in it’s rich history, outstanding gastronomy and deep artistic heritage. The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 runs from 7 June to 7 July 2019 and kicks off with the opening game with the host nation France competing against South Korea on 7 June in Paris. The month long event will see 52 matches play to determine the ultimate winner with the final match being played at Parc Olympique, in Lyon.

This year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 consists of teams from:

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • Cameroon
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • China PR
  • England
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Jamaica
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • The Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • Norway
  • Scotland
  • South Africa
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Thailand
  • USA

As needed with all travel, the following safety and health precautions should be considered prior and during travel to France.

Smart Traveller official advice on France is to exercise a high degree of caution due to the high threat of terrorist attack. There have been several major terrorist attacks in France. Since 2015, over 200 people have been killed and hundreds injured. Major sporting events can attract much higher levels of security due to the increase of large groups of spectators for games.  Demonstrations linked to the Yellow Vest movement may continue across France for some time, including in tourist areas. Protests mostly happen on Saturdays. Avoid all demonstrations as they may turn violent and disrupt traffic in some regions. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Health risks in France are broadly similar to those in Australia. There is currently a measles outbreak across the world so make sure your measles vaccinations are up to date prior to travel and consider the flu vaccine.

 

Rugby World Cup 2019 Japan

The 9thRugby World Cup is set to kick off in Tokyo Japan on Friday 20 September following the opening ceremony, when the host nation plays team Russia. A total of 48 matches will be played across the tournament which runs from 20 September through to Saturday 2 November. 2019 will see the tournament being held for the first time in Asia.

Japan is a stunning combination of ancient traditions, modern life and breath-taking nature and with the Rugby World Cup taking place around the country, spectators are set for an experience like no other.

This year’s Rugby World Cup features teams from:

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • England
  • Fiji
  • France
  • Georgia
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Namibia
  • New Zealand
  • Russia
  • Samoa
  • Scotland
  • South Africa
  • Tonga
  • Uruguay
  • USA
  • Wales

As needed with all travel, the following safety and health precautions should be considered prior and during travel to Japan. Smart Traveller official advice on Japan is to exercise a normal degree of caution. Japan experiences earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons and volcanic activity from time to time. The Japan Meteorological Agency provides up-to-date information in English on these issues as they arise.

The mosquito-borne disease Japanese encephalitis occurs in rural areas of Japan. Protect yourself against mosquito-borne illnesses in rural areas by getting vaccination prior to travel, Take measures to avoid insect bites, and ensure your accommodation is mosquito proof. – not likely to be recommended so best to leave this out.

There have also been a significant number of cases of measles and rubella in Japan in recent years. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel and definitely consider influenza vaccination.

Prior to setting off on your sporting fan adventures, make an appointment with the team at Travel Health Plus to make sure you are covered.