Two week writers retreat in Barbados

Have you ever wanted to write a book, or a screenplay? This is your chance to work with an accomplished editor.

Writing takes time. Time to find the story inside you, time to think about the issues you want to share. We are offering two week workshops that will allow you to explore your ideas, put them on paper, and learn what it takes to write a book.

Work with the editor of Women’s Post

You will be working alongside the editor of Women’s Post and join 5 other writers on a beautifully restored plantation in Barbados. The plantation is located above Speightstown on the west coast of Barbados offering expansive sunset views. It is a short walk to the beach. The property has a large pool, wifi, and all 6 bedrooms are air conditioned – but you’ll rarely use it as the breeze is constant.

Furthermore, you will be tasked with submitting your writing twice a week to the editor who will edit and give critical feedback.

Not sure you have a book in you? No worries, you will be given topics each day to write about and receive the same editing and feedback. The goal is to develop and hone your writing skills.

But it isn’t all hard work!

You will also have time to walk down to the beach. Or go for a stroll in Speightstown where you can buy fresh local produce, or enjoy a cool drink at 1.11 the local beach club. Don’t miss their Sunday and Thursday evenings with live jazz and the best rum punch on the island. On Wednesday and Friday evenings enjoy the sunset with live music and dancing at Little Bristol. There are restaurants up and down the coast, and a bakery in town.

The plantation property is an old Rectory designed for contemplation.

In the mornings you can sit at the pool deck and watch monkeys play in the mango trees. You will hear the goats bleating down below the ridge, and see the town bustle to life. In the evenings as the sun sets the colours of red and orange can take your breath away. Yellow, blue and green parakeets fly past the ridge to their nests down the coast. When the sky is clear of clouds you may get the chance to see that green flash that happens when the last rays of the sun bounce off the horizon line. As the sun vanishes the bats come out and swoop over the pool. The night air fills with the sound of whistling frogs and the scent of frangipani. Some nights you might also hear live jazz wafting up from 1.11 Beach Club, other nights a choir singing in one of the church’s in the town below. As the sky fills with stars, fireflies dance under the trees, and you can’t help thinking there is something magical about the Rectory.

Retreat Details:

• Shared use of fridge, stove, barbecue, dishwasher & laundry, kitchen, living rooms, dining areas, writing areas and pool
• Private rooms with ensuite
• Private rooms with shared washrooms

*Please note shared space must be kept free of personal belongings. Meals and transportation are not included

Writers Workshops Details

• Mondays 1:00pm-4:00pm — workshop on structure and creativity
• Wed 1:00pm-4:00pm — workshop on character building and narrative
• Fridays 1:00pm-4:00pm — review, shared discussion

If you would like to join one of our Group of 7 month-long workshops please fill out the application below and we will respond within a few days.