Many people relate travel to seeing new places, which of course is true. But many people don’t think about the connection between travel and learning something new. Taking a class or workshop, that you may not have access to, can turn an ordinary vacation activity into a memorable one. A unique hands-on experience can allow you to connect with the destination, its culture, and its people in a more meaningful way.

Viator offers more than a wide variety of classes and workshops around the world. These classes and workshops give you the opportunity to learn everything from cooking and arts and crafts to dancing, languages, yoga, surfing, and other outdoor activities. IYou can enjoy such experiences as cooking classes in Tuscany and Thailand, surf lessons in Costa Rica, mask-making in Venice, salsa classes in San Juan, and pottery workshops in Cambodia.

Learn a Skill You Can Take Home

One of the biggest benefits of participating in a class or workshop is that you learn a new skill that you can take home and put into practice. You may learn how to prepare traditional local dishes, or learn an art or craft that you can continue practicing long after your vacation. With some workshops you may be able to take home something you have created yourself, such as pottery, stained glass, or artwork.

Experience Local Culture

What better way of experiencing a more authentic connection to the destination. Participating in an activity, rather than simply observing, gives it more meaning. By learning to cook a traditional meal, or create a traditional craft may provide insights into the local culture that you might not have discovered during a conventional sightseeing tour.

Meet People and Make Memories

Many of these classes and workshops are designed for groups, making them a great way to meet fellow travelers and interact with local instructors. These workshops are for just about everyoner, couples, families or friends, and participating in classes and workshops together can create lasting memories and shared stories.

Try Something Completely New

Some of these classes and workshops force you to step outside your comfort zone. You don’t need experience as an artist, a chef, a dancer, or an athlete to participate. Most of these experiences are geared for beginners and provide professional instruction and equipment where necessary.

Make your vacation more than a collection of photographs and sightseeing stops by experiencing something new. From glassblowing and perfume-making to surfing and archery, there are opportunities to try something you may never have considered at home. It gives you a chance to learn, participate, create, meet people, and take a piece of the destination home with you. With thousands of classes and workshops available, no matter where you go in the world, you learn a new skill that will last a lifetime.