Escape

Doesn't it look lovely, relaxing, inspiring? I need to be taken somewhere exotic where I can play with fabulous inspiring people, and get fed, watered, and generally pampered! Here's a few retreats to consider for when the Lotto Boat comes in.

You too can take in the scene above when you visit the Costa Rica Writers Retreat - and there's a competition ending in a couple of weeks to win a week here.

Our writers' retreat will reawaken your senses and creativity. Write, listen to one another read aloud, and give feedback underneath a palm thatched roof, with the aromas of your next meal prepared by a master chef infusing the air. Sit on your private porch and work on that novel chapter you've been struggling with all winter. Climb the steps to the yoga studio overlooking the gardens and rejeuvante with a bellydance or yoga class; Docelunas has the only certified Bikram yoga studio at a hotel in the world. Give yourself the gift of space and your imagination the recharge of an environment teeming with artistic stimulation: scarlet macaws, toucans, and blue butterflies.

Or if you'd like to be a bit closer to home try the Writers House at Katoomba in the Blue Mountains.

Always wanted to stay for a while in the Italian countryside? Why not visit The International School of Drawing Painting and Sculpture located in Umbria, Italy.

Here you can work in a scenic environment that supports art. You have a community. And there is no lack of inspiration. For many, it's the incredible landscape that surrounds the school. And for some, it is the experience of being immersed in the world's greatest treasure trove of art.

Prague is a must see on any European trip. Get all inspired at this Arts Immersion Program and even take a side trip to the local opera.

And some readers of this blog have already packed their sarongs in readiness for the Art Intensive Workshop with Anahata Katkin in Bali next month. As well as getting to play with like minded people, they'll be massaged, housed, fed, taken to visit local attractions, and even get a visit from a medicine man.

Not happening for you? Can't even manage a meet up with your local etsy team? Well I hope you get a little time just to relax and recharge your creative batteries.


Shell candelabra from Bay Rays Girl


Maybe take a bath.

Soap from Inner Earth Soap


Or drift off and dream about that lotto-boat arriving while listening to some nice music. Here's a link I discovered on Karen Cole’s blog.