For 20 ideas on what—and where—to learn on your next vacation, read on.

Bullfighting

Why: Because once you've taken a real bull by the horns, your boss will never again look quite as intimidating

What to Expect: Training in the art of toreo—bullfighting—begins with daily theory lessons followed by choreography classes in toreo de salón, the moves that are the underpinning of the matador's dance. Spain's most legendary bull ranches surround the town, and side trips introduce students to the sport's history and culture while they prepare for tientas, training sessions with pedigreed yearling heifers. No animals are hurt in tientas; in fact, ranchers see them as an opportunity to get a sense of their animal's aggression. Outside the ring, students explore the dining and nightlife in Salamanca. Accommodations, which are included, are at the Don Juan, a 16-room hotel one block from the city's Baroque jewel, the Plaza Mayor.

Where: California Academy of Tauromaquia, Salamanca, Spain: A lively university town known for its architecture, Salamanca is also called La Ciudad Dorada ("The Golden City"), thanks to its many sandstone plazas and churches that glow in the sunlight.

Basics
Phone: 619-709-0664
Web: bullfightschool.com
Cost: $2,500, including lodging

Perfumery

Why: Because you've always known that a great deal of life's sweetness can be savored only through the nose

What to Expect: The institute operates a nine-month professional training school, but its two-week summer school offers novices a whiff of what it takes to make a fragrance. The first week begins with the history and chemistry of perfume before diving into the study of natural and synthetic materials. In the second week, students continue to refine their olfactory sense while learning to create their own blends. Visits to regional growers allow students to harvest the raw materials for their scents. Accommodations are not provided, but Le Victoria is a charming hotel located in Grasse, within walking distance of the school and the old city, and it has rooms with views of the sea (33-4-93-40-30-30; hotel-victoria-grasse.com; doubles, $110–$130).

Where: Grasse Institute of Perfumery Summer School, Grasse, France: The self-proclaimed Silicon Valley of scents, Grasse, surrounded by fields of violets, daffodils, jasmine, roses, and lavender, is a 20-minute drive from Cannes on the French Riviera.

Basics
Phone: 33-4-92-42-34-90
Web: prodarom.fr/UK/gip-ete.htm
Cost: $2,530, including lunch but not lodging