What is the schedule?

The full weekend schedule can be found here.

Is there an ability level or language level required for the retreat?

There is no writing ability required to attend, but an advanced/fluent level of English language is required for full participation.

Is this a retreat for people working on a book or larger writing project?

This retreat is for anyone looking to be creative and enhance their writing practice not just experienced writers or those focusing on a larger project.

What is available to do during scheduled free times?

Free time activities are up to each participant. Some activities include: a writing zone in which participants can enjoy a quiet space in nature to write; a structured prompt writing area where participants can spend time writing with guidance; nature walks; or a swimming area in the river.

Do I have to attend all the workshops and activities?

All events during the weekend are optional. Each workshop/activity is designed to stir the imagination or offer tangible skills in areas of writing and creativity, but they are not required. It is ok to opt out of workshops in favor of more secluded writing time or other activities. We encourage participants to choose which activities benefit their creative process.  

What can I expect to come away from the retreat with?

Our workshops are centered around writing. Some workshops are specific to style or creativity, while others are about the techniques around being a writer. Our hope is to offer participants tools as well as the necessary time to write so that you leave the retreat feeling restored and ready to continue writing. 

What are the menu offerings?

The Menu includes meals for three days, a BBQ on Saturday evening, as well as afternoon coffee & cakes.

Friday

Lunch: Beef with vegetable sweet and sour sauce/ seafood soup/ cooked red tilapia fish with soy sauce/ fine rice vermicelli with roast pork/ sour-soup caper leaves/ chicken hot pot/ dessert.

Dinner: Vegetable salad/ mixed soup/ grilled snake-head/ fish with salt/ grilled shrimp/ grilled chicken + sticky rice/ beef ragout & bread/ dessert.

Saturday

Breakfast: bread/ eggs/ sausage/ mixed salad/ coffee/ fruit.

Lunch: Tuna salad/ sticky rice/ pork, lemongrass and chilli stir-fry recipe/ roasted shrimp with salt/ cobia fish hot pot/ dessert.

Dinner (BBQ): Grilled shrimp/ grilled meat skewers with vegetables/ Russian salad/ roast beef with mushrooms/ fried chicken wings/ sausage/ potatoes, cassava, and corn. 

Sunday

Breakfast: bread/ eggs/ sausage/ mixed salad/ coffee/ fruit.

Lunch: Seafood mango salad/ bok choy and fish cake stir fry/ fried squid with pineapple/ Yang chow fried rice/ fine rice vermicelli with roast pork/ dessert.

What do I need to do if I have special dietary restrictions?

For dietary restrictions please notify our coordinator Stephanie Shepperd at shepperd.stephanie@gmail.com.

What happens if I have an emergency and have to leave during the retreat?

There is first aid attention on site. For any other medical emergencies, Suoi Luong is only 16km from the city center hospital. Let our coordinator know if there is any medical assistance you know you will need prior to arriving at the retreat.

What is the wifi/communication situation at the retreat?

Suoi Luong is in the jungle, but all facilities have outlets and wifi. Connection is strongest in the common areas of the villa.

Can I come if I don’t live in Da Nang, Vietnam?

The retreat is open to anyone from anywhere. There is no fee if you are coming from somewhere other than Da Nang. If you are traveling from out of city or from out of the country, we would love to help make your journey even easier. We can answer questions and offer advice on the best ways/stays in Da Nang. Please contact our coordinator at shepperd.stephanie@gmail.com if you have questions.

Will I be rooming with a stranger?

All full retreat package rates are based on double occupancy. Room assignments are based on the order of which deposits are received. When making room assignments coordinators will be conscious of pairing male/male or female/female unless you request otherwise. If you are attending the retreat with a friend or partner and would like to room together, please send our coordinator an email at shepperd.stephanie@gmail.com. If you would prefer a room to yourself, there is an up-charge of 1million.

What is a single-occupancy up-charge?

The full three day package rate is based on double occupancy meaning two individuals per room. This can be arranged as one bed (if you are a couple/friends) or as two beds. If you would like to have a private room there is an up-charge of 1million.

How many people can attend?

We have space for 15 people to attend the weekend retreat. A deposit is required to reserve your spot.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, a deposit is required to reserve your accommodation. The deposit deadline is April 1st 2020.

Can I pay online?

Yes, you can pay for the retreat online. Payments online are through Pay Pal. Online payments are the full amount. Cash payments in person, however, can be divided up as a deposit before April 1st and the remaining balance due on arrival to Suoi Luong.

What is the refund policy?

Deposits are collected to reserve your spot at the retreat. If for unseen circumstances you are unable to attend the retreat you will be refunded 50% if canceling before April 1st. If cancelation is after April 1st, we cannot refund any of the deposit.

Where does the retreat depart from in Da Nang?

More details about departure location will be posted as the retreat arrives. We will notify confirmed participants by email.