PHUKET, THAILAND
15 March – 22 March 2025
Join us in Phuket, Thailand, for a transformative journey of wellness and creativity. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Phuket as we embark on a Creative Reset tailored specifically for Black women and women of colour. This retreat is devoted to reigniting your passion for writing and creating, set against Thailand’s serene beauty and rich culture.
The retreat
Join us in Phuket, Thailand, for a transformative journey of wellness and creativity. Experience the joy of self-expression and connect with other Black women and women of colour in a supportive and inspiring environment. Rejuvenate your spirit and unleash your creativity in this paradise. This retreat will focus on finding your creative spark, and weaving self-care and wellness into your writing and creative practice.
Retreat highlights
Writing and Wellness Workshops
Dynamic workshops designed to spark inspiration and enhance your creative skills.
Wellness Activities
From nourishing meals, to sound baths, this retreat will prioritise wellness and self-care.
Excursions
Explore the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Phuket with guided tours, local cuisine experiences, and visits to historical sites.
Community
Connect with a group of like-minded Black women and women of colour from around the globe. Forge connections and leave with life-long friends.
Dates: Saturday 15th March – Saturday 22nd March 2025
Daily Morning Yoga
Awaken each day with a touch of serenity and a splash of vitality as our sun-kissed mornings kick off with rejuvenating yoga in our expansive shala. Guided by seasoned and certified yoga practitioners, these sessions are a symphony of wellness tailored for every level and ability. No need to fret about mats or equipment – we’ve got you covered. Just slip into your comfiest attire, and let the magic of the mat unfold beneath the canvas of the morning sky.
Meals
Indulge in fresh meals crafted by chefs from Dubai, China, and traditional Thai cuisine. Your package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a refreshing smoothie between activities. We cater to all dietary needs and preferences. On some days, lunch will be enjoyed on the beach or included with specific activities. All ingredients are fresh, in season, and locally sourced.
Retreat Activities
Sample Day
Morning Writing
Beach Yoga
Breakfast
Elephant Sanctuary
Relaxing time
Evening Meal
Phuket Old Town Night Market
Explore the lively Phuket Old Town Night Market, where your senses will be treated to a delightful array of experiences. Indulge in a diverse selection of street food, each dish bursting with unique flavours and enticing aromas. Whether you crave savoury Pad Thai or crave the sweetness of mango sticky rice, there’s a culinary adventure for every palate. You’ll also discover an assortment of local treasures including handcrafted trinkets, vibrant textiles, and artistic souvenirs, offering a chance to bring a piece of Phuket’s charm home with you.
Big Buddha Visit
Embark on a journey of serenity with a visit to the majestic Big Buddha statue. Towering over the island at 45 meters tall, this awe-inspiring landmark offers panoramic vistas that stretch across the lush coastline. Take a moment to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Phuket as you learn about the history and significance of this sacred site.
Cooking Class & Fresh Market
Unleash your inner chef with a hands-on cooking class! Learn the secrets of traditional Thai cuisine from local experts, unlocking a world of vibrant flavours and cooking techniques. Explore a vibrant fresh market bursting with exotic ingredients, from fragrant lemongrass and fiery chillies to plump mangoes and sticky rice. Get a taste of local life as you navigate the stalls, then put your newfound knowledge to the test by creating delicious dishes you can recreate back home to impress your loved ones.
Elephant Sanctuary
Immerse yourself in a heartwarming experience at a reputable elephant sanctuary. Witness these gentle giants in a caring environment, free from exploitation. Learn about their fascinating social behaviour and the ongoing efforts for their conservation. Create lasting memories in the heart of Phuket’s natural beauty as you observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Sunset Boat Trip Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you set sail on a Phuket boat trip tour. Cruise through the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, marvelling at the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves that dot the coastline. Explore pristine islands with powdery white sand beaches and swaying palm trees.
Nai Harn Beach Day
Escape to the paradise of Nai Harn Beach. Bask in the warm sunshine, feel the soft sand between your toes, and cool off with a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Unwind in this idyllic setting, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Soak up the breathtaking views and gentle sea breeze as you indulge in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply lose yourself in a good book under the shade of a palm tree.
Writing workshops
Finding the Spark / Recovering from Creative Burnout
This “Finding the Spark” workshop is designed to help you reignite your passion and overcome creative burnout. Through interactive exercises, self-reflection prompts, and supportive discussions, we’ll help you identify the root causes of your creative block, develop strategies to overcome them, and rediscover the joy of creating. Get ready to rekindle your inner fire and walk away with renewed inspiration and practical tools to keep your creative flame burning bright.
Guided Group Writing & Journaling
Our guided writing sessions will ignite your creativity with thought-provoking prompts and introspective journaling. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas that define Thailand, weaving them into your writing for a rich and authentic experience. From the peaceful sunrise over the Andaman Sea to the vibrant energy of Old Phuket Town, these sessions will spark your imagination and forge a deeper connection to your surroundings and your own creative voice.
Routes into Publishing
From refining manuscripts to understanding the various routes to publication, this workshop equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to polish your work and confidently embark on the journey to becoming a published author. Whether traditional or self-publishing, discover the routes that align with your goals and aspirations.
Accomodation
Our retreat takes place at Lan Sabai Retreat Resort – Nai Harn, Phuket. Guests of Lan Sabai will be treated to a hyper-local experience, as this luxury wellness resort is nestled in a quaint local neighbourhood. From the moment you arrive, you will feel the heartbeat of the community. Make every moment count and start the day with a morning swim or enjoy the serenity of the open-air Shala.
Guestrooms offer unobstructed views of the pool and panoramic mountain views with a homage to Thai minimalism. Every room features personal touches inspired by local tastes and styles. Retreat to your private deck or terrace to savour reflective moments in a cosy cocoon chair, or treat yourself to a mid-day nap on the stylishly appointed daybed.
Highlights
- Organic garden with tropical fruit, vegetables and herbs
- Large swimming pool, sunbeds and outdoor shower
- Open air Shala
- Luxurious spa with signature Thai, hand & foot massages
- 24/7 front lounge concierge
- Complimentary espresso machine
- Mini-fridge
- Wax burner with lemongrass wax
- Non-plastic bottled mineral water
- Organic handmade soap, shampoo and body wash
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Writing desk with lamp
About Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, isn’t just a beach paradise. It’s a haven for retreats seeking a unique blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking nature, and luxurious pampering. Beyond the world-famous beaches, Phuket boasts a rich cultural heritage. Explore vibrant Buddhist temples, delve into the island’s fascinating Sino-Portuguese architecture in Phuket Old Town, or wander bustling night markets overflowing with local crafts and delicious street food. Phuket caters to all desires – unwind with a beachfront yoga session, pamper yourself with a traditional Thai massage, or test your taste buds with a cooking class mastering the art of fragrant curries. This vibrant island offers the perfect backdrop for a transformative retreat, combining cultural exploration, wellness experiences, and unforgettable adventures.
This Thailand Retreat is for You if…
- You’re yearning for a respite from the chaos. Whether it’s work stress, relentless deadlines, or the demands of daily life, Thailand offers a chance to truly unwind.
- Peace and rejuvenation are top of your agenda. Imagine tranquil beaches, soothing massages, and a slower pace to melt away your worries.
- You crave the freedom of solo travel. Thailand is a haven for independent explorers, and Lan Sabai provides a supportive environment to connect with yourself.
- You’re a writer seeking inspiration. Picture yourself surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant culture, sparking creativity and igniting your writing journey.
- You dream of becoming a published author. This retreat can be your launching pad, offering dedicated writing time and mentoring
- You yearn for a sense of sisterhood and community. Connect with like-minded women on a deeper level, fostering support and inspiration.
- You feel creatively blocked. Thailand’s exotic beauty can jolt you out of a rut, reigniting your creative spark and propelling you forward.
- You want to celebrate your accomplishments in a supportive space. Share your successes and milestones with other inspiring women, fostering a sense of belonging.
This Journey is Probably Not for You if…
- You are not a Black Woman or Woman of Colour – thank you for respecting this space
- Do not do well away from home
Testimonials
PACKAGE
What is included
- Airport transfer
- 7 Nights at Lan Sabai resort
- 3 meals daily *(excluding goodbye dinner)
- Welcome meal /sound bath
- Daily Morning Yoga
- All workshops (1-on-1 mentoring is available at a fee)
- Retreat activities: Big Buddha visit, beach days, Night market, boat tour, elephant sanctuary, cooking clas, and market visit.
What is not included
- Airfare & visas
- Travel Insurance
- Extra transportAll transport that is not part of the retreat programme
- Food and drink outside of the retreat programme
- Therapy / spa treatments (this can be purchased directly with the venue)
- Extra activities and excursions
- Goodbye dinner at the restaurant
RETREAT LEADER
Christina Fonthes, a Congolese-British writer, holds a wealth of experience in workshop leading. She is the proud owner and founder of REWRITE, a creative writing organisation that empowers Black Women and Women of Colour writers worldwide. Christina found her writing voice in 2014 whilst living in Manchester, where she fell in love with and began writing and performing poetry. Her mantra, ‘Telling stories through any means possible,’ allows her to bring untold stories to life through writing and community engagement. Christina was awarded the Royal Society of Literature’s Sky Arts Award in 2021. She currently lives in London and is working on her debut novel WHERE YOU GO, I WILL GO which will publish with Tinder Press in Spring 2025.
Getting to Thailand
For your journey to our retreat, the nearest airport is Phuket International Airport (HKT). If you’re flying in from the UK or Europe, anticipate a 15-hour flight duration, including a layover. From the US, the flight is 17+ hours, including a layover.Our serene retreat takes place in Nai Harn about an hour’s drive from the airport. To ensure a seamless experience, we recommend arriving in Phuket in the afternoon so that you have time to unwind and recover from the flight. You are also welcome to arrive before the retreat starts, there are several hotels and accommodations to suit all budgets.
BOOKING
Spaces Are Limited
MEMBERSHIP PRICES
*These exclusive prices are available for REWRITE MEMBERS, and individuals who have attended previous retreats in Costa Rica and Portugal – all prices are in GBP
- Double Occupancy – £2,304 / $2,916 / €2,718
- Single Occupancy – £2, 524 / $3,194 / €2,977 (limited rooms)
STANDARD PRICES (non-membership)
- Double Occupancy – £2,554 / $3,232 / €3,013
- Single Occupancy – £2,774 / $3,510 / €3,272 (limited rooms)
To Join Us
- Choose your room type
- Make your non-refundable deposit of £500 / $630 / €582
- Final payment is due by 1st December 2025
Need help?
Contact us: hellorewrite@gmail.com
Cancellations
Your retreat booking is considered confirmed at the time of paying your deposit. All REWRITE retreats, courses, classes, events, programs, and memberships are non-refundable. This includes for reasons of COVID-19 or illness. We strongly suggest that you purchase travel insurance for any cancellation reason so that you can request a refund through your travel insurance. For cancellations, we offer one-time transfers. You will be responsible for the price difference if purchasing a more expensive product. A one-time transfer to another retreat may be made 120 days or more prior to the departure of the retreat. Transfers past the 120-day mark period will not be allowed. There are no refunds if transferring to a less expensive product. To transfer a retreat please email us: hellorewrite@gmail.com
Please see our retreat FAQS.
Important information
- To register, please pay the deposit or the full amount.
- To ensure that the retreat is focused and relaxing for all participants as well as a good fit for you, you’ll be required to answer a few brief questions before your place on the trip is confirmed. This will also help us to allocate your room buddy. In the rare instance that it’s determined that the retreat is not a good fit, your deposit will be refunded
- All activities are subject to change
- You will have to take out travel insurance before coming on the retreat – we will ask you for proof of this. You will also need to sign a waiver form
- Please check entry and visa requirements for Thailand here https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thailand-tourist-visa