Choosing The Best Seats
Major sporting events and big name music shows are usually held at large arenas, halls and other large venues. Choosing the best seats when attending these sorts of events can be confusing; there are often many tiers, sections and other variables to consider.
How can you know which spot will work best for you? A lot of it is specific to the place the event is being held at; however, there are some good rules of thumb regarding how to select the best seats. Below, we outline some of these tips so that you can make a more informed decision.
Choosing The Best Seats At A Music Event
Seeing a favourite band or singer perform live in concert can be a thrilling experience. However, if you cannot see or hear the act very well, it puts a major damper on the fun. At the same time, you undoubtedly want to get a good deal and not spend a terrific amount of money. Below, we highlight some tips regarding how to choose great concert seats.
- When choosing concert tickets, consider what is more important to you: being able to see the performer(s) clearly, or that the sound not be terribly loud? Often, selecting seats quite near the front means having to deal with incredibly loud music; many times, the amplifiers are directly alongside the front few rows
- Are you seeing a band with many members, or a solo performer? You will probably want nearer seats for solo performers as opposed to a large band with many players
- Take a look at the seating chart online. Will there be "runways" that the performers might wander across during the show? Seats along that area are typically the best
- Keep your budget in mind. Front row - or front section - seats are usually tremendously more expensive than seats elsewhere at the venue. This is even more true for very popular music acts. You can sit near the front of an upper tier for a lot less money - and still experience an amazing view and incredible sound
- Search online about others' experiences at the concert you are planning to attend. Because each event is so unique, this is the preferred way to find out where the best seats are. Being informed about a specific concert can help make it an unforgettable experience.
Choosing The Best Seats At A Sports Event
Attending a football match or another sporting event can be an exhilarating and entertaining experience. However, it can considerably less so if you cannot see what is actually occurring on the playing field. Although each stadium, field and other venue is different, there are a few things that can be kept in mind when selecting seats to make it the best experience possible; we highlight a few of these below.
- Whether you are attending a football match or a basketball game, aiming for the center of the field is usually the best bet. This way, you can see what is happening on both ends of the playing field; missing out on an entire end of a field can be disorienting and annoying
- If you want to see your favourite players up close, try to get seats close to where they enter/exit or where they sit when not participating
- If you or a companion requires frequent lavatory trips, plan accordingly; select seats with easy access
- At many events, seats on an upper tier are preferable if you want to keep an eye on all of the action
- Choose aisle seats if you require additional leg room or if you need to get up frequently
How To Stay Safe At A Venue
Attending a major sporting event or music concert is supposed to be a fun, exciting experience. However, occasionally people become rowdy at these events; depending on the specifics, there may be a good chance of the crowd becoming boisterous or creating chaos. Knowing how to stay safe at a venue is important; below, we highlight a few basic tips on how to stay safe at an event in order to have the most enjoyable experience possible.
Survey The Scene
Before attending an event, go online and familiarise yourself with the layout of the arena, hall, stadium or other location it is being held at. Note how many exits there are, and where they are located in relation to your seats. Arrive at the event early enough to be able to walk around and see the exits personally; therefore, if an emergency does occur, you will be able to head directly to the nearest exit - and not just the one you arrived through. This will increase your safety and the safety of those around you.
Remain Sober
At many events, there is always a great temptation to enjoy alcoholic drinks; sometimes, people go too far and become intoxicated. If an emergency occurs, though, being intoxicated can be very dangerous. As it's important to keep your wits about you, staying sober is a very smart strategy when attending any sort of event. Make sure to limit your drink intake to just one or two.
Be Polite
Fights sometimes break out at events, thanks to their crowded nature and the presence of alcohol. Be courteous at all times; avoiding pushing or shoving others. If another person seems to be looking for a confrontation, get away from them as quickly as possible. Do not raise your voice or otherwise antagonise other attendees. If a fight breaks out, get clear of it as rapidly as possible.
Gauge The Temperament Of The Crowd
Many times, the vibe of a crowd leading up to a riot is almost tangible; voices become raised and peoples' tones become angry. Security might seem on edge, and people seem tense. If you notice such signs, prepare for a fight and try to look for ways to make a hasty exit. Being aware of how others around you are behaving is one of the best ways to stay safe at all sorts of events.
Summon Security
If you notice another person engaging in dangerous or destructive behaviour, never take matters into your own hands. Always summon security personnel to handle such occurrences. Intervening personally is a recipe for disaster, as you never know how the offending party will respond. Major events usually have plenty of security staff on hand; it's their job, so let them do it.
Stick Together
Always try to attend a major event with a friend. During the event, try to stick together as much as possible. However, arrange a rendezvous point in case you do become separated.
Use Common Sense
Even at very crowded events, you should always avoid being pressed close to other attendees wherever possible. Steer clear of mosh pits or other dangerous sorts of activity. Avoid getting too close to the stage at concerts, as this is where the "crush" is likeliest to occur. If the area you are standing in becomes too crowded, move elsewhere.
Never Incite Panic
Absolutely never - not even as a joke - yell "Fire!" or another alert. This is a sure way to incite a panic at an event. If a true emergency occurs, remain calm in order to keep from making the panic worse.
Top Ten Sports Venues In The World
When it comes to famous sports venues, there are many that come to mind. Famous sports venues immediately create a picture in one's mind, and are easily associated with various sporting events. Below, we have highlighted the top ten sports venues in the world - and why they are so world-famous.
1. Churchill Downs
As the site of the annual Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is more than just a race track; it is an iconic symbol of this region of the United States, and of the Southern culture in general. Although the specific point of the Derby is the horse race, the true point of it is social: this is where people show up to see and be seen.
2. Wembley Stadium
Rebuilt in 2007, it has already earned a famous reputation among the sports venues of the world. Located in the center of London, Wembley Stadium plays host every year to the annual FA Cup and is the home of the English national team. The tower on its arch can be seen from many parts of London, making it stand out and cementing its place in the hearts of people everywhere.
3. Madison Square Garden
Located in one of the most famous cities in the world, Madison Square Garden is one of the most easily recognized sports venues in the world. Home to basketball's New York Knicks and hockey's New York Rangers, this arena holds a special place in the hearts of sports lovers around the United States - and the world.
4. Augusta National Golf Club
Considered by many to be the most exclusive golf clubs in the world - and as the home of golf's annual Master's Tournament - the Augusta National Golf club has been the home of unforgettable golf events since 1933. Its course is a striking balance of difficulty and beauty; being a member of the club can set a person back more than £30,000 annually.
5. All England Tennis Club
In the world of tennis, the Wimbledon Tennis Championships are the epitome of competition in this event. Every year, it is held at the All England Tennis Club and the eyes of the world turn there. Virtually anyone who is anyone in the world of tennis has appeared here at least once, from Arthur Ashe to John McEnroe.
6. The Rose Bowl
Located in sunny Pasadena, California, the Rose Bowl is considered one of the best American football sites in the United States. Each year, it plays host to the collegiate Rose Bowl game, and has been since 1916. This stadium has been featured in several films, television shows and other media.
7. Yankee Stadium
As home to some of the most memorable moments in American baseball, Yankee Stadium is where the incredibly winning New York Yankees team made its name during the early to mid twentieth century. Although it has been torn down, its memory lives on in sports fans.
8. Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Each year, the Indianapolis 500 - the most famous race in auto racing - is held at this venue. Anyone who follows auto racing - and many others - is familiar with this site.
9. Lambeau Field
In American football, Lambeau Field - the home to the Green Bay Packers - is considered the most iconic venue in the sport. When one thinks of the traditional American football stadium, Lambeau Field is often what comes to mind.
10. The Colosseum
Rome's most famous attraction is also the most famous sports venue in the world. Although it hasn't been used for sports events for centuries, its history is compelling enough to make it an unforgettable part of this list.
Top Ten Music Venues In The World
Taking in a live music performance can be a thrilling experience. When it comes to famous music venues, there are many that come to mind. Below, we highlight ten of the top music venues in the world.
1. The Tokyo Dome
As the largest music venue in Japan, the Tokyo Dome - referred to by locals as "The Big Egg" - is home to virtually any major musical performance that comes to the area. With a capacity of approximately 55,000, the Tokyo Dome can accommodate the most popular musical acts in the world - and is an unforgettable place to see a show.
2. Madison Square Garden
Located squarely in the heart of New York City, Madison Square Garden has been host to countless famous and unforgettable musical acts since opening in 1968. From Paul McCartney to Madonna, just about any major act that travels to the area performs here.
3. Sydney Opera House
With its incredibly unique design, this iconic Sydney building has hosted many phenomenal music acts since opening in 1973. People who come to Sydney on vacation are usually sure to take in at least one show at this amazing venue. With top notch accommodations, there is truly no better place in Australia to watch a live music performance.
4. Wembley Stadium
Situated in the heart of London, Wembley Stadium refers to itself as the Venue Of Legends - rightfully so. After all, a true plethora of famous faces have appeared at this location. Bob Geldof's 1984 Live Aid benefit show attracted more than 1.4 billion viewers worldwide; Wembley holds 90,000 people and boasts a 133 metre high arch.
5. Slane Castle
As far as outdoor concerts in the United Kingdom go, this venue in County Meath, Ireland cannot be beat. Featuring lush grounds and an incredible ambiance, it is little wonder that so many famous acts have chosen Slane as a site for their important performance. Looking out over the River Boyne, Slane Castle has played host to many legendary acts, including Bob Dylan.
6. Festhalle
Situated in Frankfort, Germany and best known for its amazing glass domed roof, Festhalle is by far the best place to take in a musical performance in Germany. Originally opened in 1909, it has played host to an incredible number of famous acts, including Rod Stewart.
7. Manchester Evening News Arena
No list of the top music venues in the world would be complete without mentioning Manchester Evening News Arena. As Europe's largest indoor concert arena, "The Men" is known by people around the world. This venue is unique in that is can as easily accommodate large, screaming crowds as it can smaller, more intimate events.
8. Red Rock Amphitheatre
Located in Colorado in the United States, this music venue is extraordinarily unique because it is naturally formed. 100 metre sandstone formations give this place its name, and major musical acts appear here regularly.
9. Palais Omnisports De Paris Bercy
With a pyramid styled entrance, this venue stands out even in the incredible city of Paris. Hosting a slew of big name acts, Palais Omnisports is attended by thousands each year.
10. Air Canada Centre
Although young in comparison with many other famous venues, the Air Canada Centre is still one of the best places to see a show in Canada. Holding nearly 20,000 people, this venue can accommodate the crowds that come with the many famous acts that pass through its doors.
Top Ten Theatre Venues In The World
Amazing performing arts events take place at thousands of venues around the world. However, there is definitely a handful of venues that really stand out in the world of theatre. Whether its because of their rich history, compelling architecture, amazing location or other characteristics, the theatre venues on this list are among the top ten best in the entire world.
1. St. Martin's Theatre, London
As one of London's many famous West End theatres, St. Martin's Theatre has seen its fair share of famous actors pass through its doors. Many visitors to London make a point of taking in a show at this venue, as it frequently hosts many compelling and interesting productions. Its run of "The Mouse Trap" has a world record, having been on since 1974.
2. The Eugene O'Neill Theate, New York City
This venerable New York City institution has hosted many incredible productions throughout its storied history. It opened in 1925 and has had many different names throughout the years. However, it is considered to epitomise much of what people have come to expect from Broadway shows in New York City.
3. The John F. Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts, Washington DC
The JFK Center is one of the most famous performing arts venues in the United States. Along that country's East Coast, it is frequently host to many well known and well respected productions. From ballet to many different plays, this is a great place to take in theatre in the capital of the United States.
4. The Sydney Opera House, Sydney
As a landmark of Sydney, Australia, this theatre is certainly one of the most famous venues in the world. Its distinctive sailboat appearance alone has given it an indelible place in the hearts of theatre goers worldwide. Many incredible productions occur at the Sydney Opera House, and it is a must-see Sydney attraction.
5. Odéon, Théâtre de L'Europe, Paris
The Odéon, Théâtre de L'Europe is just one of many excellent Paris theatres. It serves here as an example of the many venues available in the capital of France. Visitors to Paris looking for a great theatre venue frequently choose this amazing location.
6. Gershwin Theater, New York City
It's not surprising that New York City has more than one theatre on this list; after all, it is home to an incredible theatre scene. The Gershwin Theater hosts a great number of popular productions, and is a frequent stop for tourists to this large, bustling city.
7. Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow
As one of the most historic theatres in Moscow, the Bolshoi Theatre is a must see place for performing arts fans who come tot his city. In many ways, this venue is the first that springs to mind among people who are asked about great theatre venues in Moscow.
8. Teatro Eliseo, Rome
There's no doubt that Italy has a long and venerable theatre tradition; in Rome, the Teatro Eliseo is considered one of the best venues in the city. Many famous and well respected actors have crossed the stage here; people visiting the Eternal City often include this spot.
9. Her Majesty's Theatre, London
Due to its great theatre tradition, London has another entry in the top theatres in the world with its Her Majesty's Theatre. Home to the Phantom of the Opera, this is a frequent stop for visitors to the city.
10. Burgtheatre, Vienna
The Burgtheatre in Vienna is considered one of the most important theatres in Europe. Both classic and contemporary productions take place here, and its amazing architecture is not to be missed.
