In recent years, educational tourism has experienced remarkable growth. According to ICEF Monitor data (2024), study abroad experiences for students aged 12 to 18 have increased by over 30% compared to the pre-pandemic period.
Italian parents are increasingly viewing these experiences not just as holidays, but as long-term investments in their children’s future.
What Is Educational Tourism and Why Is It Growing So Fast?
Educational tourism combines learning and discovery, offering international experiences that blend education, culture, and personal development.
Unlike traditional tourism, its main goal is linguistic, cultural, and human enrichment.
Key reasons behind its rapid growth include:
- Desire for authentic and meaningful experiences;
- Growing importance of English for university and career opportunities;
- Need to develop soft skills such as independence, teamwork, and leadership.
According to research by Edventures Global (2024), 78% of parents believe that a study abroad experience improves their children’s confidence and adaptability.
The Real Benefits of a Study Abroad Experience
Choosing an educational tourism program means gaining:
- True language immersion, with constant exposure to English;
- Multicultural experiences, alongside students from all over the world;
- Personal growth, by learning how to manage daily life away from home;
- Future orientation, through courses and activities linked to tomorrow’s careers.
Well-structured programs like those offered by MLA World include native-speaking tutors, interactive lessons, and extracurricular activities, ensuring learning is both effective and engaging.
How to Choose the Right Educational Tourism Program
Every student has different needs. Here’s an MLA checklist to help guide your choice:
Age and Language Level
Make sure the program is designed for the student’s age group and English proficiency. Courses that are too advanced or too basic can reduce motivation and confidence.
Destination and Cultural Environment
Choose among top educational tourism destinations — such as London, Dublin, Malta, or New York — considering factors like climate, safety, and cultural excursion opportunities.
Type of Accommodation
You can choose between:
- College campus: full independence in an international environment;
- Host family: deeper cultural immersion and everyday language practice;
- City experience: courses in vibrant urban centers with workshops and activities.
Supervision and Safety
MLA programs include qualified Group Leaders, 24/7 assistance, and constant communication with parents, ensuring peace of mind throughout the experience.
Educational Value and Certifications
Select programs accredited by recognized institutions such as the British Council or English UK, which guarantee teaching quality and international recognition.
The Added Value of MLA World
With over 50 years of experience in educational tourism, MLA World has guided more than 150,000 students through international study abroad experiences.
What sets MLA apart? A personalized, human-centered approach.
During pre-departure courses, for example, MLA students are supported by real tutors connected online from around the world, offering authentic guidance and creating an emotional connection even before departure.
In addition, the MLA community remains active after students return home, allowing them to continue practicing English and keep alive the relationships built abroad.
Educational tourism is no longer just a “study holiday”: it is a 360-degree growth experience, shaping confident, curious, and globally minded young people.
Choosing the right program means investing in linguistic, cultural, and personal development. And with MLA World, that investment becomes an experience that stays with you forever!
