Learning Vacations: Souvenirs of Knowledge

Contributing Staff
Rich Women Sisterhood

Written by Lindsay Evans

On a learning vacation, you can relax and have fun while broadening your knowledge. These vacations are a fun opportunity to try something you've always wanted to - for example, you can learn drumming in West Africa, join an archaeology dig in Jordan, or take painting classes in Paris. Many US desintations offer learning experiences, too. Among other activities, you can study boatbuilding in Maine, learn about astronomy at Arizona's top observatories, or study Amish culture in Indiana.

Nicolas Ross, director of the UK-based company Art History Abroad, says that "traveling and learning make an ideal partnership and leads to satisfying enjoyment." His company offers 1-, 2- or 6-week art history classes that travel to significant sites around Italy. "On a very practical level," he says, "our programs make the best use of time for those joining us."

So, what's the difference between one of Mr. Ross's programs and a guided tour through a museum? Groups are kept to 10 or fewer clients and guided by a knowledgeable expert guide who participates in and encourages discussion about what the group has seen. "Everyone can see, hear and most importantly, join in discussion. This convivial aspect of our courses, where Anne Ager discussion spills over in to lunch say, makes the whole experience enriching to all, client and tutor alike", says Ross.

The scenic beauty of the French Riviera is the setting for Cote Cuisine, Anne Ager's French cookery school (pictured right). Ager offers one-on-one regional cooking classes for travelers to the south of France. Her full or half-day classes present "new and inspirational ideas for home entertaining" and include a Mediterranean lunch with local wines.

Ager, who develops each client a custom itinerary and menu, knows her students make the most of their vacation by taking her class. "It is virtually impossible to learn to cook French regional cuisine outside the country - the essential passion is missing!" she says. "This particularly applies to the Provence region. There are the unforgettable markets, bursting with vibrant colors and smells, and the all-important opportunity to taste. The French are rightly very proud of their products and their cuisine, and they want to share them. The local producers know me and respect me, and I introduce every client as a 'friend'."

Language-intensive learning vacations are a great way to improve your skills. Many trips combine language-intensive training with room and board at a local family's home. You'll learn at lightning speed by practicing your vocabulary while being immersed in the local culture. Whether you want to learn Spanish, Japanese, German, or another language, visit www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/study/language/index.shtml for a list of language schools by country.

Emily Trower of Stevenage, England toured Italy on her 6-week Art History Abroad course and says she'd do it again any day. "I think what made the trip so exceptional for me was the firm belief that you can only gain a true understanding of art and architecture if you actually see it in the flesh. Not only did I broaden my knowledge and general understanding of Art History, Music and Literature, but I also had the most enormous amount of fun!" she says.

Trower enjoyed the comfortable feel of the program and the camaraderie that developed between members of the small group. "It was simply a guided tour of the art in which you could learn and discuss in a relaxed atmosphere, " she says. "I have made friends that will last a lifetime and memories that I will always treasure."

For more information about available learning vacation packages, visit www.elderhostel.org

Photos courtesy Art History Abroad and Anne Ager