R. Daniel Foster
Jet Skis. Hammocks. Umbrella drinks. Beach sunsets. Horses. Kayaks. Canoes. Catamarans.
Words you associate with "vacation," right? Now, take off your sunglasses, blink, and try this list:
It's not as obvious as a rum-saturated umbrella drink, but this index is associated with fabulous vacations all the same, The idea of going on a trip to learn may raise pubescent memories of dismal battleship-memorial tours with Mom and Dad, but those days are long gone. Today's learning vacations offer relaxation, exercise, adventure, discovery and the deep satisfaction that comes from exploring a long-neglected hobby. Make no mistake, though: An educational vacation can still be a vacation - you don't have to spend your time off in an airless classroom taking tests.
Whether you want to perfect your harmonica wail, learn how to tell a planetary nebula from a globular cluster, master the saxophone, become an expert in navigating by compass, or discover what the F-stops on your camera do, there's a learning trip out there for you. And while some programs involve classrooms, others fuse adventure with knowledge by using the outdoors as an instructional venue. Some of the best learning trips are found near mountains, lakes and windswept ocean beaches. At North Cascades Institute, nestled in Washington's tallest mountains, the "Hangin' with the Bats" weekend program focuses on exploring bat caves and identifying species, with a chance to hike and bike the surrounding Wenatchee National Forest by day.
After a trip like that, you'll have plenty to regale your friends with when they ask, "So, what did you do on your vacation?" No mumbling about free HBO in the hotel: You can talk about using ultrasonic equipment to eavesdrop on bat calls, the bizarre mating habits you witnessed and the look and feel of a stretched bat wing in your hand - even the mounds of bat guano you trudged through. Sure, it's not typical backyard barbecue talk ... but you're not a typical guy.
For precisely that reason, scouting out an educational trip that suits your unique interests requires some work. We've got some great sources to get you started, but don't feel limited by them. Opportunities for this kind of travel are everywhere. Look for programs run by your local college, university or community adult-education center. Science centers, museums and aquariums also often operate weekend or weeklong field trips combined with in-class learning time. Whenever possible, talk with people who have been on a trip similar to the one you're planning. In the meantime, check out our sampler of some of the best learning trips around:
Source: http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1608/is_n9_v14/ai_21099915
dBusinessNews.com - Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:02:51 GMT
Acclaimed tour agents, Best On Puerto Vallarta, are now offering a cruise and day adventure at nearby Las Caletas. Other activities offered by the firm include Puerto Vallarta zipline adventures, dolphin swims and scuba diving.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:35:59 GMT
The summer family vacation is an American tradition and one of which childhood memories are made: ordering room service, jumping on the bed, swimming in the hotel pool.
Southlake Times - Sat, 04 Jul 2009 05:54:22 GMT
Vacation Bible School "Boomerang Express" at Carroll Baptist Church takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. June 15-19. Children age 4 through grade 8 are invited to attend. In this one-week adventure, you will hear Bible stories, enjoy cool crafts, motivating music, great snacks and games.
CNN - Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:47:40 GMT
We know your summer vacation time is precious: You want to land where you can truly relax, breathe fresh air, get in some exercise and eat well -- without breaking the bank. That's why we teamed up with a panel of travel and health experts to help us find the healthiest of the nation's most popular beach and lake towns.
The Rock Hill Herald - Sat, 04 Jul 2009 04:09:12 GMT
Greater Unity AME Zion Church, S.C. 97, Sharon: Vacation Bible School, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday.
Forbes - Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:18:26 GMT
Honduras is in crisis, but its troubles shouldn't scare you away from a Central American vacation.
Great Falls Tribune - Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:05:24 GMT
Recently, Joan and Kevin Udovich took a vacation to Maui for their 20th wedding anniversary. Their daughter Megan, a Tribune Teen Panelist, and her brother and sister stayed behind for a stay-cation in Great Falls. They share the stories of their adventures below.
The Sparta Independent - Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:08:57 GMT
Sparta Camp E.D.G.E. (Experience and Discover God Everywhere) will be hosted by Sparta United Methodist Church, from Monday, July 13 through Friday, July 17.
The Norman Transcript - Sat, 04 Jul 2009 05:17:14 GMT
This summer many families will pack up their cars to head out on a family adventure.According to the 2004 Travel Report, an estimated 170.1 million trips taken in 2003 included children under 18 years of age.
Kern Valley Sun - Fri, 03 Jul 2009 23:36:12 GMT
Charles McLaughlinSpecial to the Sun Hiking adventures are nice because they are great for just about everyone, as well as just about any occasion. Are you interested in taking a trip? Whether you are looking to take a traditional trip with your family or go on a romantic getaway, have you ever thought about going on a hiking adventure? One of the many reasons why hiking is great for both ...