Students can upgrade their classroom at this Mexican resort

School is almost back in session, but not all students will be returning to the classroom. As an alternative for students who are distance learning, the Four Seasons Punta Mita resort in Mexico is offering families an option for a ‘schoolcation’, where kids can log into class from pool- or beachside study cabanas, get private tutoring sessions with a study buddy or learn Spanish and local arts, crafts and history.

The resort near Puerto Vallarta © Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita/Christian Horan Photography

The resort, on Mexico’s Pacific coast near Puerto Vallarta, has rethought its offering in the era of remote learning amidst the coronavirus pandemic, and its new ‘worldschooling’ program, called Knowledge for All Seasons, is certainly a change from the norm.

‘Learning can truly happen anywhere’, John O’Sullivan, the general manager of Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, said in a statement. ‘We are here to support kids and parents in this new learning paradigm with educational classes inspired by our destination and caring team members to help kids with their school work’.

Who needs a classroom? © Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita/Christian Horan Photography

The program is set up for students’ remote learning needs, including a dedicated 24/7 tech hotline for help with computer and tablet issues, plus access to printers, bigger monitors, portable chargers, lap pads and school supplies, doled out by the resort’s poolside ‘Screen Doctor’. Study cabanas near the pool and the beach can be reserved and converted into private workstations with unbeatable ‘classroom’ views. Cabanas are equipped with Wi-Fi, large TV monitors, headphones and snacks.

If regular classes aren’t enough, Four Seasons is also hosting a range of complimentary courses that highlight the local area and heritage, including arts and crafts workshops to create Huichol-inspired dreamcatchers and butterfly kites, as well as zapateado dancing lessons. Spanish classes are available for both newbie and advanced speakers, and nature lovers can assist with seasonal sea turtle releases, forage in the bay for kelp and mollusks and learn the indigenous plants and animals on an eco walk.

Although the land border between the US and Mexico will remain closed until at least September 21, Mexico does not have any restrictions on visitors entering the country, and flights are still operational.