Running a marathon abroad is special enough on its own. That’s why we take care of the practical aspects of your marathon trip: from hotels and race entries to travel documents, useful information, and assistance whenever possible. On this page, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about booking, payment, race entries, hotels, transportation, supporters, and race day.
Globalrunning.com has been a specialist in international marathon travel for 25 years. We offer more than 100 running events in over 25 countries, often with a guaranteed race entry and a hotel in a convenient location close to the start, finish, or public transportation. You focus on training. We’ll take care of your marathon trip.
1. Books and packages
What is included in my trip?
The content of a package differs per trip. For each trip you will find clearly which parts are included and which parts can be booked separately. Examples include hotel stays, breakfast, a start ticket, transportation, transfers or tour guides.
Why should I book through Globalrunning.com instead of arranging everything myself?
Because Globalrunning.com helps you avoid a lot of research, uncertainty, and last-minute stress. We combine a conveniently located hotel with clear travel information and a guaranteed race entry. For popular marathons, it can be difficult to find a race number or a good hotel on your own. Through Globalrunning.com, you can book a package with an experienced tour operator who knows what runners need to keep in mind during a marathon weekend. From the expo to the starting area and from hotel selection to practical tips: we’re here to help. In short: you focus on your training and your race. We’ll take care of the marathon trip around it.
Can my partner, family, or supporter come along?
Yes, that’s possible. Supporters can travel with you without a race bib. In that case, they simply book the travel package, which may include hotel accommodations and any additional activities. You can see the available options on the travel page. If your situation isn’t clearly listed there, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
What does "starting ticket guaranteed to be rebooked" mean?
This means that we have start tickets available for this trip, but the start ticket is not included in the base price by default. You can then add the start ticket per participant during booking.
Can I make a reservation as part of a running group, company, or club?
Yes, group trips are possible. We also organize marathon trips for running groups, companies, clubs, and other organizations. Depending on the destination, we can help you plan accommodations, room assignments, arrangements for supporters, extended stays, and other practical details related to the trip. Please contact us for a customized proposal.
Can I change my booking?
A change is sometimes possible, but it depends on availability and the conditions of hotels, airlines and event organizers, for example. Please contact us as soon as possible if you want to change anything.
2. Payment, Cancellation, and Terms and Conditions
Do I have to pick up my start number myself?
Cancellations are possible in accordance with the terms and conditions that apply to your booking. Please note that fees may depend on the timing of the cancellation and the terms and conditions of hotels, transportation providers, and event organizers. Entry tickets are non-transferable and cannot be canceled free of charge. If you have any questions, please contact us as soon as possible.
Can I transfer my starting ticket to someone else?
It depends on the terms of the event organization. Start tickets are often personal and cannot always be transferred. Therefore, always contact us first.
What if I get injured?
Please contact us as soon as possible. We will see what is possible within the conditions of the trip and the event. Please note that start tickets are often personalized and cannot always be cancelled or transferred free of charge.
Can I change my distance, such as from marathon to half marathon?
It depends on the event and the available start tickets. At some marathons this is possible, at others not. Please contact us and we will see what is still possible.
Are you affiliated with ANVR, SGR and the Calamity Fund?
Yes, Globalrunning.com is affiliated with relevant travel insurance providers and industry organizations. This gives you added peace of mind when booking. You can find more information about this in our terms and conditions and on the information pages of the respective organizations.
Is my registration for the marathon immediately final
After your booking, we process your registration according to the marathon organization's procedure. For some events you will receive a confirmation immediately, for others it will follow later. If you book a package with starting ticket through us, we will ensure that your participation is processed correctly.
3. Race Number and Marathon Registration
What does “guaranteed entry can be booked later” mean?
This means that we have race entries available for this trip, but the race entry is not included in the base price by default. You can add a race entry for each participant during the booking process. For popular marathons, race entries are often in limited supply. So don’t wait too long to book if you want to be sure of a spot.
Do I have to pick up my race number myself?
For many events, you’ll pick up your race number yourself at the marathon expo. This depends on the event organizer’s rules. Your travel documents and practical information will explain how this is handled for your marathon. They’ll also tell you where and when you can usually pick up your race number.
Can I transfer my race entry to someone else?
That depends on the event organizer’s terms and conditions. Race entries are often non-transferable and cannot always be transferred to another person. Would you like to transfer your race entry? Please contact us first. We’ll then check what’s possible according to the event’s rules.
Can I change my race distance, for example, from a marathon to a half marathon?
Sometimes that’s possible, but it depends on the event. At some marathons, you can change your distance, while at other events it’s not possible or is only allowed under certain conditions. Please contact us as soon as possible if you’d like to change your distance. We’ll see what options are still available.
4. Trip guidance and support
Will there be supervision during the trip?
Many group tours include tour guides, but this may vary by destination. On the package page it is mentioned if there is a guide. Our guides will help with practical questions and make sure you are as relaxed as possible at the start.
What exactly does the tour guide do?
The tour guides help with practical matters surrounding the marathon weekend, such as information about the expo, start times, transportation and the program. They are not there to provide individual training, medical or race guidance.
Can I reach you if something goes wrong during the trip?
Yes, in the practical travel information you will receive contact information for emergencies or urgent questions during the trip. That way you know where to turn if something comes up.
Why should I book through Globalrunning.com instead of arranging everything myself?
Because you eliminate a lot of uncertainty. You don't have to search for a starting ticket, hotel and practical marathon logistics yourself. We combine travel experience with knowledge of international marathons, allowing you to focus primarily on your preparation and the race itself.
5. After booking
What happens after I book?
After your booking, you will receive a confirmation. Then we will process your trip and, if additional booking was made, your start ticket. Later you will receive the final practical information before departure.
Do I need to do anything myself after my booking?
Sometimes you still need to provide your own data for marathon registration, such as date of birth, expected finish time, passport information or shirt size. If this is required, we will let you know.
When will I receive my travel documents
You will usually receive the travel documents and practical information a few weeks before departure. With some trips, certain information follows later, for example when the marathon organization publishes the final start information.
Where can I ask questions about my booking?
You can contact Globalrunning.com using the contact information on the website. Please include your booking number so we can assist you more quickly.
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