Why not learn a new skill on your next holiday?

*Head to Italy and learn how to prepare amazing food with local cooks.*

In today’s hectic world, there are times when spending your holiday lazing by the pool is what the doctor ordered. But for those trips when something a little more go-getting is a prerequisite, it’s time to consider learning while you travel.

Learning a new skill while you explore the world is not only something that is enjoyable at the time, but can have a long-lasting effect because you’ll have another weapon in your arsenal. Not only do you spend a dedicated amount of time learning the basics of your new passion, but you also get to discover a new country and meet like-minded folks. What’s not to love?

Here are just a few examples of how you can travel and learn at the same time.

Enjoy a staycation writing retreat

If you’ve ever wanted to hash out some of your best ideas and hone your aptitude for the written word, then there is no better place than a writing retreat. The Arvon retreat in rural Devon are ideal for anyone looking to release their inner novelist. The five-day residential courses cover all levels of abilities and genres and are led by tutors who have plenty of experience in creative writing. The retreat includes all workshops, tutorials and full board and is perfectly suited to anyone looking to experience a staycation.

Study the art of painting in France

*An artist painting Notre-Dame Cathedral before it was ravaged by the recent fire.*

For experienced and budding artists, arty holidays are an excellent way to learn new skills while meeting like-minded people, and where else better to learn painting techniques than the capital of the art world – France? Attend a painting retreat at a beautiful historical house surrounded by an estate of 20 acres in L'Age Baston, South West France. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the dedicated painting studio or take an excursion with your fellow course attendees to find inspiration in the local places of interest.

Prepare local food in Italy

When it comes to learning how to cook, Italy is the place to be. Roll up your sleeves, tie up your apron and get stuck into an immersive cooking holiday experience. From kneading fresh pasta dough and tossing pizzas to sampling generations-old recipes and sampling regional wines, cooking courses in Italy provide you with skills you will use for the rest of your life. Head to the beautifully restored farmhouse Villa Vespa in Bologna for an in-depth look at how to create some of the country’s most popular cuisines, such as tortellini and tagliatelle. You can also explore the local medieval towers and sample delicacies at the covered food market full of artisanal produce.

Go surfing in Morocco

*If you’ve always wanted to surf, why not learn on holiday?*

Surprisingly, Morocco has some of the best surf in the world, which makes it ideal for anyone who has always fancied the idea of catching some waves. The Yoga Retreat at Villa Mandala by Surf Maroc is a seven-day holiday offering classes for everyone from beginners to professionals in yoga practices and surfing. The luxurious oceanfront accommodation is the perfect place to wake up to the waves before indulging in a two-hour sunrise yoga session, followed by an action-packed day of surf coaching on the beach.

Learn poker in Slovenia

*Slovenia is also home to stunning scenery including Lake Bled.*

Ever fancied yourself as a James Bond-style poker pro but feel like you could do with some extra lessons? Then a poker holiday in Slovenia is what you need! Whether you’re an online player who helped PokerStars reach its latest milestone, or you’re completely new to the game, you’re guaranteed to get something out of this glamorous holiday by Lake Bohinj. The lavish accommodations at the Hotel Jezero are the ideal place to get some peace and quiet while enjoying stunning views, a spa and skiing opportunities. There are poker lessons in the evenings for attendees to try their hands at beating each other and winning prizes.

Scuba dive in Bali

*Take advantage of the beautiful Indian Ocean waters in Bali.*

The warm crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life in Bali mean that it is one of the best places in the world to learn how to scuba dive. Discover laid-back luxury, stunning natural beauty and unique diving experiences that only Bali can offer by joining an AquaMarine Diving safari.

These safaris can last as short or long as you want it to, stretching from two days to several weeks of intensive dive lessons. Whether you’re sticking to a strict budget, or you’re looking for something a little extra, AquaMarine provides you with a tailored experience so that all you have to worry about is having the time of your life.

With so many inspirational holidays to choose from, the only trouble you’re going to have is to work out which one to take first.

Have you ever learned a new skill on holiday? Let me know where you went and what you got up to in the comments section below!