Pickleball Around the World: Staying Active While Travelling

Pickleball is now a world-wide phenomenon

If you’ve spent any time travelling around Southeast Asia lately, you’ve probably noticed pickleball courts popping up everywhere.

That unmistakable pop-pop-pop sound is becoming increasingly familiar, whether you’re walking past a sports centre, gym or even a café.

I’ve noticed pickleball growing in popularity during our travels through Southeast Asia and Australia. And it’s easy to see why.

It’s social, relatively easy to learn and a fun way to stay active without spending another session lifting weights in the gym.

So, what’s all the fuss about?

What Exactly Is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis.

It’s played using a lightweight paddle and a plastic ball with holes, usually on a court about the size of a badminton court.

You can play singles or doubles, although doubles seems particularly popular because of the social side of the game.

The rules are fairly straightforward, and you don’t need years of experience to get started.

One of the biggest attractions is that people of different ages and fitness levels can play together.

And unlike tennis, where learning to serve can take some practice, pickleball uses an underhand serve, making it easier for beginners to get involved.

Is Pickleball Actually a Good Workout?

As someone who enjoys strength training, I’m always interested in finding other ways to stay active while travelling.

And pickleball offers a surprisingly good workout.

Cardio Without Feeling Like Cardio

There’s plenty of movement involved, particularly when rallies get going.

You’ll find yourself moving sideways, changing direction, reaching for shots and occasionally sprinting across the court.

How intense your workout becomes depends on your skill level, how competitive the game is and whether you’re playing singles or doubles.

But it’s certainly more active than it might look from the sidelines!

Coordination & Agility

Pickleball involves plenty of quick reactions and changes of direction.

You’re constantly adjusting your position, watching the ball and deciding where to place your next shot.

It’s a different type of movement from what I normally do in the gym, which is part of the appeal.

The Social Side

This is probably one of the biggest reasons pickleball has become so popular.

It’s a sport that brings people together.

You don’t necessarily need to arrive with a group of friends, as many clubs organise social sessions where you can join other players.

For travellers, that’s a great way to meet people and experience something local.

Something Different From the Gym

I love my strength training, but sometimes it’s nice to do something different.

Pickleball can be a fun addition to your usual training routine, particularly on days when you don’t feel like another gym session.

Although don’t underestimate it!

A competitive game can involve plenty of running, lunging and quick movements, so it’s not necessarily a recovery session.

How to Find Pickleball Courts While Travelling

One of the best things about pickleball is how quickly new courts and clubs are appearing.

If you’re travelling somewhere new, there are a few easy ways to find somewhere to play.

Google Maps

Search for pickleball courts in the city you’re visiting.

This is usually my first stop when looking for gyms or fitness facilities while travelling.

Facebook Groups

Many cities have local pickleball communities where players organise games, share information and welcome newcomers.

Search for the city name followed by “pickleball”.

Meetup

Some destinations have pickleball groups organising regular social games and beginner sessions.

Local Sports Centres

Tennis clubs, recreation centres and gyms are increasingly adding pickleball courts to their facilities.

Some hotels and hospitality venues are also getting involved.

Before heading out, I’d recommend checking whether you need to book a court, bring your own paddle or join an organised session.

Where to Play Pickleball Around the World

Here are some pickleball venues we have played across in Thailand, Vietnam and Australia.

What Do You Need to Play Pickleball?

The good news is that you don’t need much equipment to get started.

If you’re trying pickleball for the first time, I’d recommend finding a venue that offers paddle and ball hire before investing in your own equipment.

If you decide to play regularly while travelling, here’s what you might want to pack.

Pickleball paddle

A lightweight paddle is easy enough to fit into your luggage, although it does take up valuable packing space.

Pickleballs

Indoor and outdoor balls are slightly different, so make sure you’re using the right type for the court.

Court shoes

Proper court shoes with good lateral support and grip are preferable, particularly if you’re playing regularly.

Running shoes aren’t ideal for all the sideways movements involved in pickleball.

Water and a towel

Definitely don’t forget these, especially if you’re playing outdoors in Southeast Asia.

It might look like a casual game, but playing in Thailand’s heat is another story!

A Few Tips Before Your First Game

• Check the booking arrangements. Some venues offer casual games, while others require court reservations.
• Ask about equipment hire. You might not need to bring anything beyond your shoes and water.
• Learn the basic rules. Understanding serving, scoring and the non-volley zone will make your first game easier.
• Join a social session. It’s a good way to meet people if you’re travelling alone or don’t have anyone to play with.
• Respect local court etiquette. Every club has its own arrangements, particularly around court rotations and sharing space.

And don’t be afraid to play with people who are better than you.

It’s often the quickest way to improve.

Pickleball Scorecard

Just for the record… five stars don’t come lightly!

My Final Thoughts

I can understand why pickleball has become so popular.

It’s relatively easy to get started, it’s social and it’s another way to stay active while travelling.

For me, the biggest attraction is being able to combine fitness with meeting people and exploring somewhere new.

And while I’m certainly not giving up my gym sessions, I like having other options when we’re travelling.

Would I recommend giving pickleball a go?

Absolutely.

You don’t need to be particularly athletic or have years of experience to get started. Find a beginner-friendly session, hire a paddle and see what you think.

Who knows, you might discover your next favourite way to stay active.

Travel, train, pickleball, repeat.

See you on a court somewhere around the world soon! 🌏🏓

Mi-Ree 🧡