Learn a new skill from locals during your travels

Who needs yet another pretty trinket from their travels to clutter up the shelves? It’s far more exciting to come back from your adventures with newfound knowledge—something to wow your friends and family. There’s nothing as fulfilling as taking time to learn a new skill while traveling.

This begs the question: what can we learn from a journey, and where does one begin? Luckily, our brilliant and insightful local experts can set up all kinds of hands-on experiences for you as part of your trip.

These can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture of every destination you visit. Meet the locals, learn about their cultural arts, crafts, and practices, and how they fit into community life. And, most importantly, pick up new skills from the experts themselves.

17 skills you can learn from locals during your travels

While on the search for the most exciting activities or attractions at a location, take some time to develop a new skill on the go. This allows you not only to make new friends but to also get out of your comfort zone, as you dive deep into a new culture as well as the locals’ everyday life.

Ready for a cultural exchange? Here are some great examples of unique and memorable experiences you can participate in as part of a tailor-made trip, customized entirely by our locally-based agents to suit your abilities and preferences.

1. Vietnam: pottery crafting

Vietnam’s pottery tradition dates back over 2,000 years, with regions like Bat Trang in the north renowned for their skillful ceramics. During your visit to Vietnam, you’ll have the chance to mold your own pottery using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.

You’ll also discover how pottery fits into Vietnamese daily life, with some pieces used for cooking, storing, and even as part of spiritual ceremonies. It’s a beautiful way to connect with local culture and take home a functional and artistic piece of Vietnam.

2. Colombia: learning Spanish

Colombians fluently speak Spanish, but the language varies from region to region, each with its own vibrant slang and accents. Whether you’re in the coffee-growing mountains or the bustling and colorful streets of Bogotá, learning Spanish opens up a world of deeper understanding.

It’s the perfect way to connect with locals, navigate daily life, and truly experience Colombian hospitality—the same goes for most of South America. You’re not required to learn Spanish to visit Colombia. However, language is often the key to unlocking local stories, histories, and traditions, making your travels that much more enriching.

Not everyone in Colombia speaks English, so a Spanish class is beneficial. Search for a class that provides basic information, such as greetings, asking for directions, or making statements.

3. Argentina: tango dancing

Tango originated in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires in the late 19th century. It has since become an international symbol of dancing with absolute passion and grace.

Argentina’s tango tradition is rich with history, and learning it from a local instructor will offer insights into the country’s social culture, music, and emotions. Whether you’re mastering the basic steps or perfecting a dramatic pose, dancing tango in Argentina is the ultimate way to connect with the rhythm of the local culture.

Tango is popular across Latin America, but nothing beats getting a lesson from the source. Delivering a boost in confidence and self-awareness, a tango class adds some flair to your journey.

4. Portugal: azulejo tile painting

Azulejos, the iconic blue and white tiles found across Portugal, have been a part of the country’s architecture for centuries. Originating from the 15th century, these tiles were initially influenced by Moorish designs but have since developed into a national symbol.

During your travels, you can try your hand at painting your own azulejo. This traditional craft is not only a way to create a long-lasting souvenir but also a way to connect with Portugal’s deep artistic heritage. Each tile you paint represents a piece of Portugal—its heart, spirit, and soul.

Nothing screams authentic travel like creating your own keepsake. Our local experts can plan the perfect painting workshop in Porto for you, offering unforgettable memories while you explore a new city.

5. China: calligraphy

Chinese calligraphy is a time-honored art dating back thousands of years. Each brushstroke carries meaning, reflecting the philosophy, culture, and history of China. The practice involves more than writing—it’s about balance, rhythm, and conveying the beauty of Chinese characters.

As a traveler, learning calligraphy from a local master allows you to experience the art firsthand. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture through one of its oldest traditions. If you’re looking for a special way to explore China, this is a great way to do so. Free-hand writing is a dying skill in this digital world, but being able to write with elegance and style is one of the few travel lessons you won’t want to pass up.

Let our local experts search for a tailored class that offers you an overview of the different styles but still focuses on the basics and how you can master them.

6. Belgium: beer crafting

Belgium is famous for its beer, with hundreds of distinct styles ranging from light ales to hearty stouts. Learning the craft of brewing from a local expert allows you to delve into the history and significance of Belgian beer-making. For inspiration, visit a few bars in Belgium and taste away.

You’ll explore the intricate steps of brewing, from selecting ingredients to fermentation, and discover how Belgian beer has evolved over the centuries. It’s one of the best life skills to learn for those who want to take a taste of Belgium home with them.

7. Laos: nature photography

Laos offers some of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, from dense jungles to serene rivers and stunning waterfalls. Nature photography is the best way to capture the beauty of this country. If you love to snap, a two-week photography tour of Laos is the right course.

Local experts will guide you through the technical aspects of photography, such as composition, lighting, and framing. You’ll enjoy all this while connecting with your surroundings. You’ll learn to appreciate the fine details of nature—from wildlife to the vibrant colors of the landscape.

Mastering nature photography allows you to bring home a visual story of Laos’ remarkable beauty, preserving memories in a way that’s as timeless as the landscapes themselves.

8. India: cookery classes steeped in history

India’s culinary heritage is as vast and varied as its culture, with each region boasting its own distinctive flavors and techniques. Our experts in India put together an itinerary showcasing the best of this complex and delicious gastronomy (alongside some of the most exciting sights).

You’ll gain new perspectives, learning the difference between rich and hearty Punjabi cuisine, refined and traditional Awadhi-style cookery, and how to spot the best street food.

Book a culinary adventure to India and get a chance to spend time in a Rajasthani home, learning from some of the secrets of their well-balanced spicing and mouthwatering recipes. You can shop and cook alongside your hosts or just watch and learn from the experts and then dig in. When you return home, recreate and incorporate these fantastic dishes into family life.

9. Morocco: argan oil production

Morocco’s Argan oil is famous around the world for its beauty and health benefits, but few know the process that goes into its production. In the dry, arid regions surrounding Essaouira, Agadir, and Taroudant, local women have been harvesting and processing argan nuts for centuries.

Experts in the region put together a trip that allows you to discover the secrets and benefits of argan oil firsthand. Learn about the methods used to extract the oil and its wide-ranging uses, from skincare to cooking—you’ll see how to make traditional Moroccan tagines and pastries.

This authentic Moroccan experience not only offers a great way to contribute to local women’s enterprises, but you get to do so while discovering a product that’s integral to Moroccan life.

10. France: pastry making

The art of pastry making in France is steeped in tradition and sophistication. From delicate croissants to rich éclairs, French pastries are a symbol of the country’s culinary excellence.

In a pastry-making workshop, you’ll learn to create your own pastries under the guidance of local chefs, mastering techniques that take years to perfect. By the end of your class, you’ll not only leave with delicious treats but also the knowledge to recreate them in your own kitchen.

11. Australia: Aboriginal art

Aboriginal art is one of the oldest living traditions in the world, with roots stretching back over 60,000 years. In Australia, learning about Aboriginal art provides insight into the country’s history and indigenous cultures.

Local artists guide you through the techniques used in dot painting, bark art, and story-telling through symbols. The process of creating Aboriginal art helps travelers connect with Australia’s spiritual landscape and gain a deeper appreciation for the land’s ancient wisdom.

12. Ghana: recycled glass beads

In Ghana’s Krobo region, glass beads play an important role and are often worn during celebrations and ceremonies. Cedi Beads is a family enterprise founded by Mr Nomoda Ebenezer Djaba in Odumase, Krobo. Once the bead workshop was established and running smoothly, demand rose to the point where Mr Djaba now employs several family members.

The century-old tradition of making glass beads has been passed down through the family, and today, the workshop welcomes visitors keen to learn the process. The first part of upcycling involves crushing the glass, pouring it into molds, and firing it at very high temperatures. These are highly skilled tasks, so you will only be able to watch as the expert team carries them out.

As a “student,” your role will be to decorate and apply patterns to the beads using a special glass paint. For a deeper insight into the art of bead-making in Ghana, visit the workshop during the Dipo celebrations and functions, which usually take place in April. You are likely to see the beads being worn as part of ceremonial dress, leading to a greater understanding of the cultural context behind Cedi Beads. This will be your sneak peek into Ghana’s vastly different cultures.

13. South Africa: wildlife tracking

South Africa’s diverse landscapes are home to some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife. Tracking animals in the wild isn’t just about following footprints—it’s a skill that requires knowledge of animal behavior, the environment, and survival tactics.

With local guides, you’ll learn to read the signs left behind by the animals and gain a greater understanding of the ecology around you. Tracking wildlife is a unique way to immerse yourself in South Africa’s natural beauty while honing a skill that could serve you well in any adventure.

If you’re traveling solo or just taking a gap year, animal tracking can be a great way to volunteer. You’ll face new situations, meet new people, and possibly learn a new language while positively making an impact on the planet.

14. Thailand: traditional Muay Thai boxing

As you go through life, you may find yourself in unexpected situations, but having some degree of self-defense experience can make the difference. That’s where Muay Thai can be helpful— known as “The Art of Eight Limbs”, it is a martial art that dates back centuries in Thailand.

It’s not just about fighting—it’s a form of self-discipline, respect, and cultural expression. Training in Muay Thai under the guidance of a local expert will teach you the techniques and give you insight into the philosophical and spiritual aspects of this practice. This skill is a great way to immerse yourself in Thai culture while learning a valuable and empowering discipline.

15. Costa Rica: surfing

Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is famous for its surf-friendly beaches, making it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced surfers. Surfing in Costa Rica offers more than just physical activity—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and the ocean.

Local instructors will teach you how to ride the waves while instilling utmost respect for the environment—keeping in line with the practices of sustainable travel. Surfing in Costa Rica will give you a skill that lasts a lifetime and a new way to appreciate the country’s natural beauty.

16. Egypt: the intricate art of henna

Henna has been an integral part of Egyptian culture for centuries, used in celebrations, rituals, and personal adornment. This ancient art involves creating intricate, temporary designs on the skin using a paste made from the henna plant. In Egypt, local artists will teach you the delicate techniques of applying henna, from mixing the paste to mastering traditional patterns.

Whether you choose a simple design or a more elaborate motif, learning henna art offers insight into its cultural significance. As a traveler, you’ll take home not only a beautiful, natural tattoo but also an appreciation for this timeless artistic tradition.

17. Japan: the art of making sushi

Sushi isn’t just a dish—it’s an art form. With roots tracing back to the eighth century, it has evolved from a preservation technique to the refined world-class cuisine we know today. Learn the intricate techniques of making sushi, such as rice seasoning, fish selection, and sushi rolling, and gain a new appreciation for this ancient Japanese culinary tradition.

Signing up for a sushi-making class in Japan gives you a unique chance to deeply understand the culture of this iconic dish—not just the technique. Not only will you gain a practical skill, but you’ll also experience the importance of mindfulness and precision in Japanese cooking.

FAQs about learning through travel

Still have some questions? These short answers to some of the most commonly asked questions should put your queries to bed.

What can traveling teach you about local cultures?

Traveling allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures, and learning a local skill is one of the best ways to understand a community’s values, history, and way of life.

What is the quickest way to learn a new skill?

Experience is one of life’s greatest teachers, so the fastest way to learn a new skill is through a hands-on encounter guided by experts. Keep constantly learning to go from beginner to expert.

What skills do you learn from traveling?

Traveling can teach you practical and soft skills, from learning a local language to cooking, dancing, and crafting, as well as abilities like adaptability, patience, and budget management.

Make it happen

There’s a whole world of skills waiting to be discovered, so what are you waiting for? Learn something new, immerse yourself in a different culture, and bring home more than just memories. Ready to make it happen? Contact our local experts and start planning—a fantastic trip awaits!