Six Inspiring Getaways to Pick Up a New Skill
There are many different reasons people choose to travel – whether that’s for a relaxing break, to visit a bucket-list destination, seeing friends and family further afield, or to learn a new skill. As uncovered as part of our 2019 Travel Predictions, over half (56%) of global travelers agree that traveling has taught them invaluable life skills, and that 2019 continues to see a rise in people’s desire to learn something new while away and an increase in volunteering and skills-based vacations. Our research also found that 57% of global travelers would already consider participating in cultural exchanges to learn a new skill, followed by a volunteering trip (54%) and international work placements (52%).*
For travelers looking to add more purpose to their next getaway, we have delved into our more than 28 million reported listings in over 150,000 destinations around the globe to curate a list of destinations with the opportunity to broaden your expertise. From diving to dining, these destinations will have you leaving with a suntan and a new skill!
Nama-stay in Ubud
Whether keen to stretch yourself in the future with a new yoga vocation, or in fact just looking to stretch your body in the moment, a yoga retreat could be your next trip with purpose. More than just a skill, yoga boasts many health benefits, from improved posture to increased blood flow. The spiritual, mental and physical practice of yoga originated in ancient India but is now widely practiced around the world. For modern travelers though, the serenity of picturesque Bali has become synonymous with yoga and meditation, with many stays offering regular practices.
Where to stay: Adiwana Resort Jembawan is the perfect destination for budding yogis in Ubud. Amongst the tropical greenery of this lush resort, guests will find this resort’s yoga pavilion, a serene setting for daily sessions of yoga which combines stretching movements and deep breathing. The resort also offers an outdoor pool and spa treatments for even further relaxation between yoga sessions.
Chatting in (Beijing) China
From “hello” to “thank you”, travel presents an opportunity to pick up the basics of your destination’s native language. Over one in ten (14%) of global travelers** are motivated to travel by a desire to learn new languages, so why not incorporate a language course into your next vacation? China’s capital Beijing is the most-populous national capital in the world, home to millions of Mandarin speakers – and plenty of language schools - to help practice your newly gained language skills.
Where to stay: The M Youth Space hostel is the perfect social stay to get you chatting! Located in the city center, this hostel is well-connected by the Bell and Drum Tower subway station. Whether you opt to sign up for a local language exchange or some intensive classes at one of the city’s many language schools, the shared lounge and organized events at this modern stay will ensure you have a chance to put your newly-learned Mandarin skills to the test.
Snap happy in Santorini
Holiday pictures are a staple of most people’s getaways - from beautiful panoramic views to group shots of trip companions. If you plan on visiting one of the most photogenic destinations in the world, why not take this past time one step further and hone your photography skills with a course or photography expedition. Learn how to get the best from your camera and potentially turn a passion into a new vocation!
Where to stay: While all of Santorini is photogenic, the Canvas Suites in Oia is an Instagram-lover’s dream. This villa combines luxury minimalist accommodation with breathtaking views of the world-famous island from the cliff on the Caldera. This chic accommodation boasts views of the Volcano of Santorini - if visitors can ever stop snapping pics of the property’s chic interior!
Delicacies in Delhi
For many travelers, food is a big part of the cultural experience, and sampling local delicacies is a great way to learn more about a country’s gastronomic history. For 67% of global travelers, trying new food is a motivation for their travel choices, and for 31% food in general is a reason to travel this year. Aside from indulging in delicious exotic foods, why not take some time on your trip to learn how they’re made? Indian cuisine is loved around the world, so becoming a curry connoisseur on your next trip will make you very popular in the kitchen at home!
Where to stay: A foodie trip starts with great ingredients, so why not stay just a short drive from Delhi’s most popular food bazaar, the INA market? Thikana Delhi is the perfect B&B and is well connected to many of the city’s tourist destinations, including the ancient Lodhi Garden and the Humayun Tomb. After taking part in one of Delhi’s many cooking classes, you can practice your new-found skills on the shared terrace BBQ at the property.
Artistic techniques in Tuscany
Leonardo da Vinci is a global name, synonymous with art and creativity. The name actually stems from his place of birth, Vinci, a small town in Tuscany. Da Vinci was born here in 1452 and today it’s home to a museum of his drawings and models. Where better to develop your artistic skills, while soaking up the beautiful surrounds of Italy?
Where to stay: Just outside the small town and set amongst the rolling hills, Colle da Vinci is a farm stay that’s bound to inspire your creativity. If planning on perfecting your landscape painting skills, this property and its terrace and garden will be the perfect muse. To brush up on your skills why not take a painting class in town or in nearby Florence.
Underwater in Utila
If you’re thinking of taking the plunge by trying out diving for the first time or looking to perfect your hobby by gaining your PADI certification, Utila, one of the Bay Islands of Honduras, is the perfect destination. Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, it’s known to be one of the most affordable diving destinations and is home to beautiful reefs and deep walls that are perfect for marine life lovers on a budget.
Where to stay: After spending your days perfecting breathing techniques on your diving course, the Mango Inn Resort will leave you breathless on arrival. Found just a short walk from Playa Chepes Beach, this property boasts bungalows and rooms in and amongst the greenery. The hotel also offers activities such as cycling for those days when you fancy an adventure on dry land too.
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*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who have taken a trip in the last 12 months/plan to take a trip in the next 12 months. In total 21,500 respondents were polled (including 1,000 each from Australia, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, China, Brazil, India, US, UK, Russia, Indonesia, Colombia and South Korea; and 500 each from Japan, New Zealand, Thailand, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Hong Kong, Croatia, Taiwan, Mexico, Netherlands, Sweden, Singapore and Israel). Respondents completed an online survey between 10th August to 30th August 2018.
**Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who have taken a trip in the last 12 months/plan to take a trip in the next 12 months. In total 20,500 respondents were surveyed (1,000+ from Australia, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, China, Brazil, India, the USA, the UK, Russia, Indonesia and Colombia and 500+ each from Japan, New Zealand, Thailand, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Hong Kong, Croatia, Taiwan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Sweden, Singapore and Israel.) Respondents completed an online survey in March 2018.
***Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 53,492 respondents across 31 markets. In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have travelled at least once in the past 12 months and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place between October 16th and November 12th, 2018.