From Milan Cortina to LA – Travel tips for fun and safety between games

From the Games in Italy to Soccer frenzy across North America, travel is potentially on your 2026 to-do list. While you are planning your next overseas or cross-country adventure to support your favorite country's team, AirMed International wants you to have a few tips to make your sports travel in the coming year safer, and of course, more fun!

The Games Italian Style

Planning a trip to Cortina to cheer on your home team? Enjoying the winter sporting events in Italy is sure to be a feast for all the senses. Skiing, snowshoeing and skating are not just for the international athletes in the Dolomite mountains. Here are some must-see and do winter activities near the venues that you shouldn't miss!

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen) stand as truly iconic peaks in the Dolomites. There are hiking trails here for every kind of adventurer, each one serving up spectacular panoramas and perfect opportunities for those unforgettable photos. This remarkable area is not just about breathtaking views and fascinating geology--it's also steeped in World War I history. If you're planning a hike, remember to check the weather; it can shift quickly out here.

If you're exploring Cortina, don't miss the Giau Pass-known locally as Passo Giau. This spectacular mountain road winds through the heart of the Dolomites, treating travelers to some of the region's most jaw-dropping views. At around 8,000 feet above sea level, you'll find yourself surrounded by dramatic peaks and vibrant valleys-making it a bucket-list spot for both photographers and anyone who loves soaking up nature's beauty from the warmth of their vehicles. Be sure to get out and take in the fresh mountain air and make a stop or two to warm up with a local specialty, Cioccolata Calda - the richest and thickest hot chocolate you've ever tried!

Just steps from the heart of Cortina lies the legendary Ice Stadium that welcomed athletes to the games from across the globe in the 1950s and set the stage for unforgettable moments and made its mark with cutting-edge architecture for its era. Even today, gliding across the rink, you can sense the echoes of past champions, making it a must-visit for sports fans and history buffs alike.

Medical Tip:

Cortina and the surrounding areas are many thousands of feet above sea level. If you are visiting from "Mile High" Denver or another high-altitude location, this usually poses no issues. However, coming from a city at sea-level means that you might experience "Altitude Sickness". For most healthy individuals, it passes with nothing more than a slight headache or a more winded walk while the body adjusts to the thinner air. Be aware of the levels of altitude sickness, especially if you have heart, lung or kidney issues and seek medical help if your symptoms are more than mild.

• Mild altitude sickness This is the most typical form, and it usually means you'll deal with a headache and feel a bit tired. Thankfully, it's nothing that keeps you from sticking to your plans or enjoying daily activities.
• Moderate altitude sickness If things ramp up, you might find yourself fighting off a splitting headache, nausea, and some clumsy coordination-enough to put a dent in your itinerary. If you have underlying health issues, medical help is necessary to prevent further exacerbation.
• Severe altitude sickness At this stage, you could be short of breath even when you're just sitting still, and walking can become a real challenge. This means your body is having a tough time coping with the lack of oxygen. Seek immediate medical care at this point. (University of Colorado Health)

Soccer Across North America

From Vancouver to Miami to Monterrey, soccer fandemonium in 2026 is coming this summer with teams and visitors from around the world. As the official host country, The United States has venues hosting the games across the country, with other North American venues in both Canada and Mexico. The final championship games will be played in the host city of Los Angeles. Here are some must-not-miss So. Cal activities to make your trip even more memorable between matches!

While you're in LA, Griffith Observatory isn't just a spot for stargazers-it's an absolute must-see for anyone wanting a panoramic sweep of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign. The observatory offers fascinating exhibits, free telescopes, and unbeatable sunset views that make for perfect photos and unforgettable moments- for "the Gram". It's the kind of place where science meets So. Cal cool, and you'll leave able to brag that you really saw some stars on your trip!

Speaking of stars, you can't visit LA without catching the brass stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Find your favorite celeb immortalized on this 1.3-mile-long tribute to the stars of music, screen and stage. Stop by the Chinese theater, hop on a tour bus for celebrity home spotting, visit a museum and immerse yourself in everything LA.

No California visit is complete without visiting the Golden State's greatest treasure- the beach. The California coast varies from wide, warm sandy beaches in San Diego to rocky, cold and wild beaches in the north. Each beach and beach town has its own personality, and you could experience them all driving the Pacific Coast Highway. If you are planning to squeeze a beach day in between soccer matches, Venice Beach, Cabrillo or Manhattan Beach are easy to get to and perfect for cooling off or riding the waves.

Medical Tip:

From too much alcohol celebrating with soccer fans, too much sun on the beaches, or too much walking, jogging, skating or surfing....whatever you are doing, remember to do it in moderation. LA temperatures can reach the low triple digits in summer and are usually in the high 80's or 90's. Exposure, especially combined with overexertion or alcohol, can become a real problem. Be aware of the stages of heat exposure, especially if you have underlying health issues, and seek medical attention for severe overexposure.

• Heat cramps: The first warning sign-muscle cramps and spasms hit when your body loses too much water and electrolytes. Take it easy, rehydrate, and cool down before things escalate.
• Heat exhaustion: This stage brings on fever, heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and sometimes fainting if you stand too long or get up too fast in the heat. Listen to your body and seek a cool spot-heat exhaustion means you-re pushing your limits. If you are feeling very unwell, especially if you are not generally healthy, seek medical assistance.
• Heatstroke: The most dangerous stage-your body temperature skyrockets above 104°F, and you can't cool down on your own. If untreated, heatstroke can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, or damage to your brain and vital organs. This is an emergency'get medical help right away. (Baylor College of Medicine)

While you are packing, be sure to pack a way home if you get sick or injured when travelling to your favorite sporting event this year. AirMed International offers residents of the USA private medical transportation from over 250 locations globally to a hospital closer to their home with membership. For nothing further out of pocket, you and your travelling companion* will have your medical repatriation carefully coordinated by our team of experts. Our medical professionals plan and carry out hundreds of long-distance medical transportations every year. This allows our members enjoy the freedom of traveling to points around the world with no financial worries if an unforeseen medical emergency occurs. Peace of mind is affordable but priceless. Learn more at airmed.com.

*at the pilot and medical crew's discretion.