50 Authentic American Experiences

Quite frankly, it's time you learned to cook something besides chicken stir-fry. Cajun and Creole cuisine is spicy and unusual, and your friends would be forever grateful if you whipped up a batch at your next dinner gathering. To hone your skills, spend four days in Lafayette on a "culinary tour" at the Louisiana School of Cooking. The program is run by chef and cookbook author Patrick Mould, and he'll teach you how to make staple dishes such as jambalaya and seafood gumbo. Your nights will be spent at local restaurants, continuing your studies by downing everything off the menu.
Fee: $1,595–$1,905 per person (includes all meals, classes and lodging).