“Skillcation” is a travel portmanteau that you are set to encounter frequently in the next 12 months. The term, which combines “skill” with “vacation”, applies to travellers who seek to learn new skills or improve existing ones while on holiday.
According to Google Trends search data, collected over a period of 12 months, there are 10 skills that have seen a search growth of over 160%.
This highlights the skills that most people travelling in 2026 are looking to learn or finesse.
Surprisingly, the top skillcation search is for padel holidays (333%). Padel, a racquet sport that blends tennis and squash elements, was invented in Mexico in 1969. But it was only in recent years that it saw a massive growth globally.
If you’re thinking of playing padel on your vacation, you can up the ante by going to a floating padel court – something that we don’t have locally yet.
There are a few destinations with floating courts and spectacular views. Among them is the Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives. You can play on the overwater padel court while admiring the cerulean waters of the Indian Ocean.
Yoga holidays (330%) are perfect if you seek tranquillity. India, the birthplace of yoga, and Bali, Indonesia are probably places that pop up in your mind. But why not try an unexpected destination? Head to a yoga retreat in the Swiss Alps, Switzerland for that added coolness.
Language holidays (315%) are great for anyone interested in blurring the boundaries when it comes to communication. Being a polyglot helps with overcoming language barriers, especially on travels.
As a Malaysian, you’re most likely already bilingual at the very least, but it can’t hurt to expand your linguistic skills. For example, if you want to practice your Korean so you can understand your K-dramas without relying on subtitles, then plan a trip to Seoul, South Korea.
Sharpen your skills
Go on painting holidays (280%) to brush up on your artistic skills. This skillcation has long been popular; there are plenty of tour agencies focused on providing holiday packages that are inclusive of painting lessons.
Italy is a popular destination, thanks to its scenic landscapes and rich artistic heritage. France is often visited, too, especially for its beautiful Provence region.
You can check out a “newer” destination, such as Dubrovnik in Croatia. The coastal city has been garnering more attention lately from art enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of its ancient Old Town and Mediterranean vibes.
Climbing holidays (250%) usually focus on rock climbing and mountain climbing activities. But, if you want something a little different, try ladder climbing. It’s not as easy as it sounds, because it involves a “sky ladder”.
The Zhangjiajie Sky Ladder in Hunan, China is 168m long and suspended at a height of about 1500m above sea level.
Writing holidays (227%) are for you if you like penning down stories or your thoughts. Going on writing retreats gives you that moment to focus solely on the activity. It can be done solo for absolute concentration, or with groups to engage with other creative, word-loving individuals.
If you’re more of a thalassophile – lover of the ocean or sea – sailing holidays (218%) might be more your speed. Greece is a popular destination for this. Unsurprising, given the beautiful seas that surround it. The country has many accredited sailing schools, located in places such as Athens, Corfu and Aegina.
Baking holidays (200%) have garnered more interest thanks to people who enjoy watching reality shows like The Great British Bake Off. Whether you’re already into baking or are just starting out, a great holiday destination for this is France.
But there is a destination a little closer that you can go to – Japan. While the East Asian country’s baking scene draws from French culinary, it has also managed to infuse its own distinctive touches. You’ll learn how to make delicate patisseries with cultural twists, such as using matcha and sakura as ingredients.
Hiking holidays (176%) are great for staying active while on vacation. Plus, the picturesque views that surround you as you trek up and down winding trails can help relax your mind.
A great destination for hiking is the South Island in New Zealand. Go during the early autumn months, March and April, to be surrounded by golden foliage as you hike. The cool weather also means you will have a more comfortable time.
For an even cooler experience, go on ski holidays (162%). Since snow is not something we can naturally encounter in our tropical country, this will definitely make for a memorable skillcation.
Hokkaido, Japan is one of the most popular skiing spots for Malaysians. But if you want somewhere further, you can go to the other side of the world.
In Canada, you will find Whistler Blackcomb, touted as the largest ski resort in North America. It is also considered among the top ski destinations in the world.
