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Updated on April 7th, 2025
We often reach a point where we crave more than just a holiday—we seek experiences that enrich us, challenge us, and maybe even redefine who we are. This is where an adult learning vacation comes in. Whether it’s mastering a new language, learning to sail, or finally tackling that yoga teacher training, these experiences offer a chance to step outside of your comfort zone, develop new skills, and reconnect with yourself in a meaningful way.
Why an Adult Learning Vacation is Transformational in Midlife
Rediscover Your Confidence Learning something new in a fresh environment challenges your self-perception. When you prove to yourself that you can ski down a mountain or hold a conversation in Spanish, it spills over into other areas of your life.
Connect with Like-Minded People Through the different phases of life, women find their social circles changing. Taking a class-based vacation introduces you to people with similar interests and a shared thirst for adventure.
Step Into a New Identity Maybe you’ve spent years as a caregiver, a professional, or a partner, and now you’re wondering, What’s next? A learning vacation lets you step into a new role—perhaps that of a diver, a sailor, or an artist—without any past labels holding you back.
Give Yourself Permission to Play As adults, we often forget how much joy comes from simply trying something new without worrying about being perfect. A learning vacation puts you in a space where curiosity and fun take centre stage.
What to Look for in an Adult Learning Vacation Beginner-Friendly Options – If you’re brand new to the activity, make sure the programme welcomes absolute beginners.
Supportive and Encouraging Instructors – Look for courses that emphasize confidence-building, especially if it’s something physically or mentally challenging.
An Inspiring Location – The setting plays a huge role in the experience. Do you dream of learning to scuba dive in warm, turquoise waters or perfecting your yoga poses in a peaceful mountain retreat?
A Balance of Structure and Free Time – A great learning vacation provides structured lessons but also gives you time to explore, relax, and absorb what you’ve learned. When I was learning Spanish in Cuba, I also took salsa lessons which gave me a whole new way of exercising & refreshing my brain.
A Cultural Element – For deeper transformation, choose a program that immerses you in local culture, whether through food, community engagement, or history.
Transformational Adult Learning Vacations to Consider
Learn to Sail in Greece or the Caribbean Always dreamed of harnessing the wind and setting sail on the open sea? Learning to sail builds resilience, adaptability, and confidence—all while surrounded by stunning coastal landscapes. Check out my experiences HERE (although mine was more a “what not to scenario”!)
Where?
Try Nautilus Sailing for award-winning live-aboard sailing courses in destinations like the Sea of Cortez, Mexico, and the Grenadines, Caribbean. They’ve partnered with Dream Yacht Charter to provide courses in over 50 locations worldwide.
Master a New Language Speaking a new language opens doors—not just to new cultures but also to new ways of thinking. Midlife is the perfect time to prove that you’re never too old to pick up a new skill.
Where?
Don Quijote (Spain & Latin America) offer Spanish language programs in historic cities like Seville and Cusco, Peru. Or I learned in both Cuba & Dominican Republic through Apple Languages and they offer more than just Spanish. Follow THIS LINK for my top tips on choosing the best provider for you.
Find Your Flow with a Yoga Retreat in Iceland or Costa Rica\ If you’re looking for a deeper mind-body connection, a yoga retreat can help you reset physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Where?
I have attended several yoga & wellness retreats run by my amazing friend Kathy (at Retreat Insider) in Cuba & Iceland & she is currently offering them in Lake Louise, Canada & Costa Rica. If you’re feeling extra energetic, then check out Soul & Surf (Portugal, Sri Lanka, India) which offers yoga combined with surf lessons for an even greater challenge.
Scuba Dive in Australia Scuba diving is not just about exploring the underwater world—it’s about learning to trust yourself in a completely new environment.
Where?
PADI Women’s Dive Day Programmes (Worldwide) offer female-focused dive training in dreamy locations. Or find a popular diving location wherever you are planning to visit & find a PADI certified training course. I have certified twice for my Open Water qualification, both on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and 20 years apart! (And I still made a mess of it when I last donned a scuba tank in Grenada!).
Hit the Slopes with a Women’s Ski Camp in Canada or France If you’ve always wanted to ski but felt intimidated, now’s the time! Women’s ski clinics are designed for support, encouragement, and fun.
Where?
Ski Goddess (France) offer women-only ski courses that focus on building confidence.
Explore Your Creative Side with a Writing Retreat in Italy or Ireland A writing retreat gives you the space and inspiration to finally start that memoir, travel blog, or poetry collection you’ve been dreaming of.
Where?
The Creative Writer’s Workshop (Ireland) have inspiring retreats in scenic Irish countryside, or check out Kathryn Jo Abajian for writing retreats combined with cultural immersion in Italy & California.
If all these options aren’t enough then check out my full guide with over 30 inspirational ideas HERE.
Ready to Transform Your Next Trip? An adult learning vacation is more than just a getaway—it’s an opportunity to rediscover yourself, challenge your limits, and create lifelong memories. Whether you’re learning to sail, mastering a new language, or diving into the deep blue ocean, these experiences remind you that midlife is not about slowing down—it’s about expanding your world in bold new ways.
So, {{ subscriber.first_name }} , which of these learning adventure speaks to you? Let me know in the comments! Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
If you are looking for a trip that will change your life, then look no further than my latest video over on YouTube. I am super proud of this one as I’m sharing my top 10 travel destinations that will change you, diving into why each place is perfect for a journey of self-discovery. Whether it’s standing among the ancient ruins of Peru, trekking across Iceland’s glaciers, or experiencing epic adventures in Tanzania, each destination on this list will challenge, inspire, and transform you. See it for yourselfHERE.
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Until next time,
Safe Travels
Sue x
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
More of my Adventures…
Blog – Your Ultimate Guide to Learning Vacations for Adults – Over 30 Inspirational Ideas
Blog – Havana Salsa Lessons. learning About Dance and Embracing Life in Cuba
Video – Top 10 Travel Destinations That Will Change You
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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