15 Activities Every Adventurous Traveler Should Experience

Find out if you have what it takes to be a gladiator at the Gladiator School of Rome, not far from the Colosseum. Learn how to fight with the weapons of the time while wearing a gladiator tunic and belt. It’s an experience that will “echo in eternity.”

When in Hawaii, do as the locals do and ride the waves. A surfing lesson in the shallow and warm waters of Lahaina teaches you the surfing techniques and all-important timing that will help you look like a pro on the ocean.

Make your first dive one to remember. Learn the basic skills required for scuba diving during an introductory lesson in the clear waters of Maui. Once you’ve got your confidence up, swim around an underwater world filled with colorful marine life.

Learn to play polo from the pros and experience the thrill and speed of this national Argentine pastime. In a lesson at a Buenos Aires ranch you’ll learn the rules of the game then saddle up for plenty of practice hitting the ball.

Propel yourself into the air on an efoil, a motorized surfboard with hydrofoil fins. It may not be for the faint of heart, but foiling is a fun water activity that everyone can try and requires neither wind nor waves.

No one is more comfortable on skis than the Norwegians, so this lesson (tailored to beginners) will let you learn from the best. Hammer down the basics; practice on flat, snowy terrain; then challenge yourself on a few small hills.

Immerse yourself in Japanese Samurai history and culture at a traditional Kyoto Samurai House. Learn the philosophies of Bushido, the “way of the warrior;” handle a real katana sword; practice swordmanship; and calm your mind in a zen meditation session.

Learn to surf in the heart of Aussie’s surf culture capital at one of Australia’s most famous beaches, Bondi. You’ll learn how to get up on the board, read the surf, and, most importantly, catch the waves.

Hit the snowy slopes of the Alpine village of Grindelwald and master the basics of skiing or snowboarding. Test yourself on the beginner slopes and learn how to master your first turns.

Challenge yourself with the extreme sport of kiteboarding in the tranquil setting of Tulum. A private tour lets you learn at your own pace and master such moves as body dragging and water starts.

Admire the Big Easy from above during a flying lesson—no experience or license required. Learn the basics and take in the views as you soar over the French Quarter, Mississippi River, and bayou.

Immerse yourself in the culture and dark arts of the ninja during a hands-on lesson in Kyoto, and learn techniques including ninja breathing, ninja meditation, and how to wield a ninja sword.

Soak up Celtic spirit and find out if you’ve got what it takes to tackle Ireland’s traditional sports. Learn how to play Gaelic football, Gaelic handball, and hurling. Then, step out onto the field to test your skills.

Find calm and focus in bustling Beijing during a private tai chi lesson. Learn all about the philosophy and practice of China’s ancient martial art and practice some slow and meditative moves.

Step into the ring and come fist-to-fist with Muay Thai champions. This lesson will get your adrenaline pumping as you learn all the moves you need to start sparring.