When I was first approached to write for Gay Tripper Blog I wasn’t quite sure what a straight girl like me could contribute to this site. I soon realized, though, that my passion for travel, along with my never-ending desire to stay in peak physical condition would probably trump one’s sexual orientation.

So here I am, dishing out advice on how to stay fit while on the road…a very common challenge for all of us. And, as you’ll see, I’m a bit obsessed about it. While most are planning dinner, I’m plotting my running route. You’ll find me chatting it up with the hotel’s concierge to find the most challenging trail in town or on my computer checking Run The Planet to locate a nearby running path. So, if you’re as determined as I am to enjoy those pancakes at breakfast after a quick 3-mile sprint around a foreign city, read on. I thought I’d start my first installment with some of my favorite running spots around the globe and nearby hotels that provide easy access.

Cape Town, South Africa

This picturesque city in the Southern Hemisphere is a runner’s paradise. The promenade along the Atlantic Ocean takes you through the coastal towns of Sea Point, Bantry Bay and Camps Bay. It’s an easy, flat path allowing for a long run. A stay at the Ellerman House in Bantry Bay is ideally situated for easy access to this stretch of coastline.

Rome, Italy

Ah. Roma! While you’re not stuffing your face with pasta and pizza you should be exploring some the city’s magnificent parks to burn off those calories. A run up through Villa Pamphili (the largest landscaped park in the Eternal City) will take you through gorgeous gardens, with a panoramic view of Rome along the way. Check into the Gran Melia Rome, the city’s first luxury resort, located about one mile from the park. After your run, soak up the sun in your private hot tub, complete with a view of the Vatican.

London, England

Hyde Park is the perfect spot in the city to work up an early morning sweat. They’ll be plenty of fellow runners sweating it out with you so look your best for those handsome Brits! Located directly across the street is the Intercontinental London Park Lane, perfect for easy access into the park.

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Just north of Puerto Vallarta, this stretch of shoreline is perfect for runners! The sand is firm and the stretch of beach in front of the Grand Velas all-inclusive resort allows for an invigorating 4-mile sprint.

New York, New York

Wherever I am in the world, when I get back home to NYC I can’t help but want to scream “I Love New York” at the top of my lungs. While the obvious Central Park is a runner’s paradise there’s also great running along the Hudson River’s pedestrian/bike path. The always-fashionable Standard Hotel is just a few blocks away from the Hudson River with easy access to the path.

Miami, Florida
Run along the strand in South Beach because the obvious eye-candy will make your run that much easier. Beyond the strand and for all you swimmers outs there, check into the Viceroy Hotel on Brickel Avenue for access to the largest outdoor swimming pool in the city…the size of a football field.