REAL DEALS
Fly to Bangkok or Singapore, From $926
With this airfare-only deal, you can plan your own trip to one of these Southeast Asian gems, plus spend a layover—as long as you like—in Hong Kong.
Timing
'If you're traveling to a warm climate, go for a run in the early morning. Not only will the temperature be much cooler and more pleasant, but the ground won't radiate as much heat up onto your feet and legs.' Bob Glover, coauthor of The Runner's Handbook
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Meeting people
"Most local running clubs love it when newcomers jump in on a run, so inquire in advance about organized runs in the area you're visiting. Just drop them an e-mail. If nothing is scheduled, they can still tip you off to a few good trails." Jean Knaack, executive director, Road Runners Club of America (rrca.org)
Clothing
"Always bring nylon running clothes that you can wash in your hotel sink. They dry a whole lot faster than cotton." Mark Wetmore, head coach, University of Colorado men's cross-country team
Hydration
"A lot of people underestimate how much flying can dehydrate the body. In addition to drinking lots of water on the plane, you should take a 20-minute bath as soon as you get to your hotel. There's an incredibly high rate of absorption when we bathe. It also helps soothe the swelling and muscle stiffness that are caused by long flights." Dr. Brian Dorfman, a kinesiologist who runs 10-20 miles per week
Jet lag
"To overcome jet lag, the first thing I do when I get off the plane overseas is go for a run. Your increased endorphin levels help revive you until it's time to sleep, making the transition from one time zone to the next much easier." Coolrunning.com cofounder Dave Camire
Hotels
"I make sure that my hotel always has a gym and a good treadmill, just in case the weather's cold or rainy. I'd rather be in a sleeping bag on the floor of a hotel that's got a nice workout area than in a king-size bed in a hotel that lacks a fitness center." Paul Heffernan, executive vice president of global marketing for New Balance
Packing
"A few days before the 2006 New York City marathon, my bag and all of my gear was lost on the flight from California. Luckily, the bags had a few days to find me. Still, it's always a good idea to pack your running flats (and anything else that's important) in your carry-on." Meb Keflezighi, 2004 Olympic marathon silver medalist
Safety
"Having identification on you is hugely important, especially if you plan on running in places where you've never been before--it's the only way that emergency personnel can help you in case something bad happens. Also, I always bring $10 in case I need a drink, something to eat, or a cab ride home." Runner's World editor-in-chief David Willey
Fast tip
Omni Hotels offers running maps at all 35 of its properties--as well as bottled water and towels for guests who break a sweat. At BudgetTravelOnline.com, you can download and print out Omni's suggested runs in Atlanta, Boston, Cancun, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Montreal, New Haven, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.