I learned to drive on a manual in a 74-series Land Cruiser, much of it off-road in South Africa. No question that driving a manual off-road requires more skill, but it's also a more engaging driving experience. If you apply yourself anyone can learn to do it. I'd rather drive a manual off-road than in congested urban traffic. Which I have also done. Dodging the minibus taxis in downtown Durban is...exciting. Driving a manual in Seattle - hills AND shitty traffic - not so much fun.