New York, NY, September 16, 2015 – As the 2015 Rugby World Cup draws near, spectators are bracing themselves for what is recognized as the third largest sporting event in the world, behind only the FIFA Soccer World Cup and the Olympic Games. This year's Rugby World Cup is expected to draw almost half a million international visitors, more than any previous one.  Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is among the 11 cities, in the United Kingdom, to host during the six week, action-packed event.

Now more than ever, rugby is known to be a global sport, and with that comes international fans willing to travel long distances to show their team spirit. With the Rugby World Cup occurring just once every four years, and with just two short days until kick off, visitors are finalizing their itineraries to ensure a memorable experience. Follow the United States team that will play their first match against Samoa, on September 20, followed by games against Scotland, South Africa and Japan.

For those who are going to be in Wales during the World Cup, there is an endless list of activities to experience while in Cardiff, or even if venturing a bit further into other parts of Wales.  No ticket to the game? No problem. Local hot spots are a great place to meet up with friends and fellow rugby supporters, including the following Welsh pubs:

• The Old Arcade – A rugby pub through and through, but with a tasty menu to go with it. Decorated wall to wall with rugby memorabilia including a timeline of Welsh rugby history from 1881 to present day. Fans must try the Nugget's black and blue burger, a collaboration with former rugby-star-turned-chef Martyn Williams.
• The City Arms  -  One of Cardiff's most iconic pubs – and located just a stone's throw away from Cardiff's famous Millennium Stadium – this must-visit pub is a beer lover and sports fan's paradise in the heart of Cardiff.
• The Old Market – With handpicked beers from some of the best breweries across Britain, the tavern is a favorite for rugby fans. If a lively atmosphere to watch the Rugby World Cup matches isn't a big enough reason for a visit, maybe one of their 22 new ales and craft beers specially selected for the fall season will win fans over!
• Dempsey's – A friendly Irish pub with loads of authenticity, Dempsey's is often referred to as the best Irish pub in Cardiff. Dempsey's offers a down to earth Irish experience with a Cardiff twist.
• Urban Taphouse –  Urban Taphouse, which opened in 2013, is credited as Wales' first fully-devoted craft beer and cider bar. Close to the rugby stadium, this is a favorite for a burger and a microbrew.

For fans who prefer to be minutes from the action outside of the games, there will be a RWC2015 Fanzone at Cardiff Arms Park, where fans can experience the excitement.  The free Fanzone is the perfect spot to soak up the charged atmosphere, and has a capacity of about 10,000 people. With the largest screen in the city, not only will fans be able to watch all of the matches, but they can also enjoy rugby-themed activities, cultural activities, traditional regional entertainment, as well as food and drink – all just a few steps away from the stadium.

Interested in getting an inside look of Millennium Stadium? Tours are offered in between match days. To start, fans get to experience the stadium through the eyes of the Wales rugby team. Tour guides will take fans into the “Dragon's Lair,” the Welsh' team dressing room. From there, visitors can imagine the energy of 75,000 fans as they are taken down the players' tunnel towards the turf, before learning about the only palletised field system and fully retractable roof in the UK. To top it all off, visitors will get a taste of what royalty feels like as they are taken through the VIP hospitality suite and the President's Box, normally reserved for royalty.

Aside from the bustle and liveliness of the Rugby World Cup, Wales also offers a wide array of social activities, perfect for those looking to make a weekend out of their visit to Cardiff. There's no shortage of things to do or see in the destination. For some, it's golfing, mountain biking and visiting enchanted castles, and for others it's channelling their inner dare devil with a white water rafting adventure at Cardiff Bay. Wherever a traveler's interests may lie, the capital city has a limitless roster of alluring activities to choose from.

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About Visit Wales:

Visit Wales is the New York-based government tourism office for Wales, one of four countries that make up the United Kingdom. A land with 641 castles, 870 miles of walkable coastline, three national parks and award-winning cuisine, Wales offers travelers a variety of activities and different landscapes to explore. The country's Celtic history and ancient language make it a distinctive British destination. For more information on Wales travel, visit www.visitwales.com/americas.

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