We all love to get to know the world in which we live, and travelling to beautiful, unforgettable locations is surely the best way to spend our time and money. While relaxation and escapism is at the heart of every great holiday, sometimes we need to take a break from the spa, pull ourselves from our king sized beds, and get out and experience what makes a location tick. Learning a new skill from master craftsmen, and seeing traditional handicrafts being made in situ is undoubtedly one of the most interesting ways to get under the skin of your holiday destination, so take a look at our list of wonderful learning experiences you can enjoy in some of the most unforgettable locations on earth.

Making Ceviche in Peru

Peru is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, from its vibrant urban centres, to the majesty of its wilderness and the ancient wonders of historic sites like Machu Picchu. It is also home to one of the hottest gastronomic trends right now: ceviche. This delicate dish is the national treasure of Peru’s culinary scene, and many of the top resorts in Peru are offering day courses in this simple culinary delight, taught by top chefs who will show you everything from how to perfectly marinate your fish in citrus juices, to which of the country’s best wines pair with each variation. Delicious!

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Scuba Adventures in Koh Tao

Thailand is a nature lover’s paradise, and many of the smaller islands dotted around the mainland are still gloriously untouched, and offer plenty of opportunities for a genuine tropical retreat. By learning to scuba dive with the seasoned and friendly guides of Koh Tao, you can escape into a stunning underwater world of vibrant corals and curious underwater creatures, offering an experience that will never leave you. Follow this with dinner in one of the island’s luxurious seafood restaurants, and you couldn’t wish for a better, more relaxing day.

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Block Printing in Jaipur

The pink city of Jaipur is the vibrant jewel of India’s ‘Golden Triangle’, and offers everything you could want from a luxury break in this fascinating and ever-intriguing country. The city is renowned for its glorious block printed fabrics, which display intricate designs that regularly grace the hangers of some of the world’s most exclusive clothing brands. Many of the printing houses will gladly show you the traditional and time honoured process from start to finish, and allow you to have a go at the craft yourself, in order to create something unique for you to treasure always.

Learn the secrets of Cajun cuisine in New Orleans

New Orleans, America’s party town, has plenty going for it. A world famous music scene, a seemingly never ending series of decadent carnivals, and some of the most distinctive food found anywhere on earth. Pop into the New Orleans School of Cooking for a day course in Cajun Cuisine, and feel for yourself the passion the Louisiana people have for the finer things in life.

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Hammock Crafting in Belize

If your garden doesn’t have a hammock, then you’re seriously missing out. There’s nothing finer than rocking yourself into a sweet sleep by the pool, and if you’re ever in Belize, you can craft your own hammock made from local, organic produce for you to take home. You’ll be amazed by the skill of the local weavers, and they’ll show you their unique techniques for making something of pure relaxation and delight, before leading you to the white sand beaches, where you can test your creation for yourself!

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