While idling away time on a beach has its merits, more and more travellers are multi-tasking on their vacations, combining the pursuit of adventure with the pursuit of knowledge. Whether it's picking up a new hobby or finding a novel way to explore an existing passion with a theme vacation, more than ever people are looking to add an educational element to their overall travel experience.

You can perfect your swing at golf schools affiliated with some of the top pros in the game on award-winning courses from South Carolina to Hawaii. Learn to parlez francais in Quebec City or pick up Spanish (and maybe some tango) in Argentina. From eco-friendly bicycle tours in Costa Rica or wine-country packages in Napa Valley to cooking schools in Singapore, there are endless options for the energetic and the curious.

Need more suggestions? Here's a look at some of the fastest growing passion-vacation themes:

Oenophiles Unite:

Wineries are partnering with each other to form interesting wine trails and tours in their regions. Virginia has 15 wine regions, New Zealand boasts 10 main areas, and South Africa has numerous routes.

Surf's Up:

Learning to ride a wave is a big adrenaline booster. Surf schools from Maui to California have some of the best spots to become a surfer.

Creature Comforts:

Many of us wish to assist in animal rehabilitation or to learn about endangered animals. Florida's Dolphin Research Center will have you learning from the dolphins themselves in its interactive programs that are packed with seminars and demonstrations.

Sun Salutations:

Yoga vacations are the new way to find total relaxation, and it's no surprise they're cropping up everywhere. Picture an ashram, a secluded mountainous retreat or a tiki hut overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Check out the Spring 2010 issue of CAA Magazine for an in-depth look at some unique passion vacations, including golf academies, cycling tours, cooking schools and language courses offered abroad.

To book your vacation, call CAA Travel at 1-800-992-8143, click www.caa.ca or visit your local CAA Store.

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