More Bang for Your Buck: Educational Vacations

WSVN -- Cracking a murder, going on a fossil hunt, getting an up close look at marine mammals -- these are just a few ways an ordinary vacation can become an extraordinary education.

Nancy Diamond: "An educational vacation would be one where you are learning something new or pursuing an interest you have in developing new skills and taking it a step further."

Your journey begins by logging onto the website www.grownupcamps.com.

According to founder Nancy Diamond, it lists over 6,000 adult learning programs.

Nancy: "Some of them could be considered crazy, like skydiving or car racing."

But if you're crazy about culinary arts, the theatrical arts or even language arts, you can hone numerous hobbies at camps around the world. Plus, you don't have to be a pro to enjoy these programs.

You just have to have the money. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.

Nancy: "They expect you to be a novice. They don't expect you to have the skills. So, you don't have to feel you're going into something that's over your head."

Sarah Presley, from the UK, decided to spend her vacation out at sea. She just returned from learning to sail with Blue Water Sailing School in Fort Lauderdale.

Sarah: "Probably more intense. You learn way more than I'd ever expected, and it's just 24/7, basically."

Sarah's shipmates Pia and Willie had so much fun that they hope to one day say "bon voyage" in their own vessel.

But in the meantime, they'll be setting sail on a few more academic adventures.

Pia Jala: "It's a working vacation."

Before you pack your bags, make sure to inquire about group leaders and ask for references.

Also, check out the itinerary. The average trip ranges from one week to a few months.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Grown-Up Camps
www.grownupcamps.com