BOOK WRITING RETREAT:
February 10-17, 2024
Transform your writing dreams into reality this New Year – Mexico's rich heritage and vibrant art scene are your muses!
Bringing together writers to focus, connect, and create
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding the time and mental space to write can feel like an insurmountable challenge.
Distractions abound, and the solitude necessary for creative thought often seems just out of reach. This is where our retreat, set in the tranquil and inspiring Villa Bejar in Cuernavaca, can become a game-changer for your writing journey.
Imagine a place where the usual demands of life are replaced by beautiful surroundings and dedicated writing time. A retreat that not only promises the escape needed to focus but also provides the tools and support to significantly advance your writing project.
Welcome to our Writer's Retreat at Villa Bejar in Cuernavaca, Mexico
Bid farewell to the winter chill and immerse yourself in the warm, colorful charm of Cuernavaca. This February, a bespoke writing retreat awaits at the luxurious Villa Bejar, designed specifically for a small group of creatives and changemakers like you.
Accelerate Your Manuscript Development
Under the Warm Mexican Sun
In this city celebrated for its year-round spring-like climate, your writing project will find the ideal environment to flourish. Surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of Villa Bejar, this retreat is your stepping stone to bringing your book from dream to reality.
Daily writing stints and workshops, the aromas and tastes of Mexican cuisine, and ventures into Mexico’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and art await.
Embark on a transformative writing journey with our expert guides, Sam Hiyate and Katie Curtin. Sam brings a unique perspective with his extensive experience in the publishing industry, particularly in crafting books that resonate in today's market. Katie complements this with her deep understanding of the creative process. This retreat is thoughtfully designed for writers at any stage, combining private and group sessions. You'll benefit from Sam's knowledge of what makes a book commercially successful and Katie's skill in nurturing your creative voice, ensuring a holistic approach to your writing goals.
Accelerate Your Manuscript Development
Under the Warm Mexican Sun
In this city celebrated for its year-round spring-like climate, your writing project will find the ideal environment to flourish. Surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of Villa Bejar, this retreat is your stepping stone to bringing your book from dream to reality.
Daily writing stints and workshops, the aromas and tastes of Mexican cuisine, and ventures into Mexico’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and art await.
Embark on a transformative writing journey with our expert guides, Sam Hiyate and Katie Curtin. Sam brings a unique perspective with his extensive experience in the publishing industry, particularly in crafting books that resonate in today's market. Katie complements this with her deep understanding of the creative process. This retreat is thoughtfully designed for writers at any stage, combining private and group sessions. You'll benefit from Sam's knowledge of what makes a book commercially successful and Katie's skill in nurturing your creative voice, ensuring a holistic approach to your writing goals.
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
― Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
What’s included:
1. Concentrated Writing Sessions
🌿 Imagine a serene spa setting, free from daily distractions, the camaraderie of a focused group, and the undivided attention on your manuscript—all serving to make each writing session deeply productive.
2. Personalized Coaching and Guidance from Literary Agent, Sam Hiyate and Book Coach Katie Curtin
✍️ Tailored One-on-One Coaching: Experience personalized coaching and feedback sessions from both Katie and Sam that cater specifically to your writing needs.
📚 Insights into Publishing: Gain crucial insights from Literary Agent extraordinaire Sam Hiyate, with his over 30 years in the publishing business, into the contemporary publishing landscape, ensuring your book is perfectly positioned for success.
✍️ Tailored One-on-One Coaching: Experience personalized coaching and feedback sessions from both Katie and Sam that cater specifically to your writing needs.
📚 Insights into Publishing: Gain crucial insights from Literary Agent extraordinaire Sam Hiyate, with his over 30 years in the publishing business, into the contemporary publishing landscape, ensuring your book is perfectly positioned for success.
🔓 Overcoming Writer's Blocks: Leverage Katie's expertise as a multi-disciplinary artist, activist, and breakthrough coach to conquer any writing obstacles and unlock your best writing.
💡 Empowering Your Creative Journey: Benefit from our diverse backgrounds combined with our deep understanding of the creative process, to allow you to confidently navigate every stage of your writing journey.
💡 Empowering Your Creative Journey: Benefit from our diverse backgrounds combined with our deep understanding of the creative process, to allow you to confidently navigate every stage of your writing journey.
3. Cultural Immersion, Delicious Food and Fun Activities
Experience the richness of Cuernavaca's history and culture, with curated outings that will invigorate and inspire you.
🖼️ Artistic Journeys: See murals by Diego Rivera, paintings by Rufino Tamayo and Frida Kahlo and Mesoamerican artifacts at the Palacio de Cortés and the Robert Brady Museo.
🎁 Local Artisanal Finds: Experience the charm of local markets, brimming with vibrant crafts.
🏊♂️ Recreation & Fitness: Enjoy leisurely swims and fitness amenities.
🌅Outdoor Leisure: Soak up the sun while enjoying a book and sipping on tropical drinks.
🌟 Creative Companions: Mingle with a supportive community of creative minds.
🌶️ Gastronomic Adventure: Indulge in the rich and varied flavours of Mexican cuisine.
Experience the richness of Cuernavaca's history and culture, with curated outings that will invigorate and inspire you.
🖼️ Artistic Journeys: See murals by Diego Rivera, paintings by Rufino Tamayo and Frida Kahlo and Mesoamerican artifacts at the Palacio de Cortés and the Robert Brady Museo.
🎁 Local Artisanal Finds: Experience the charm of local markets, brimming with vibrant crafts.
🏊♂️ Recreation & Fitness: Enjoy leisurely swims and fitness amenities.
🌅Outdoor Leisure: Soak up the sun while enjoying a book and sipping on tropical drinks.
🌟 Creative Companions: Mingle with a supportive community of creative minds.
🌶️ Gastronomic Adventure: Indulge in the rich and varied flavours of Mexican cuisine.
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🌟 Exclusive Bonuses for Your Writing Journey:
To enrich your experience, we've curated a series of special bonuses to advance your manuscript and provide clarity on today's publishing landscape.
🎁 Bonuses Include: 🔮 In-Depth Assessment: Dive deep into the purpose of your book, your goals, and the resources at your disposal. This comprehensive evaluation will lay the groundwork for our collaborative efforts on your project. 🎤 Pre-Retreat Group Q&A Session: An opportunity to discuss and clarify any queries before the retreat begins. 📚 Book Blueprint Workbook: Your guide to structuring and planning your manuscript effectively. 🌈 Welcome Gift Bag: A special collection of items to start your retreat on an inspiring note. 🌐 Post-Retreat Online Group Session: A session to map out your next steps, ensuring sustained progress on your book. |
Accomodations, Food, Transport
Included in retreat package:
7 nights accomodation at Villa Bejar
7 days of Breakfast, Lunches and Dinners, along with Snacks and Beverages during sessions
Lunch and Meet-Up in Mexico City
Meet and greet other retreat participants in the heart of Mexico City's historic centre, before travelling together by bus to Cuernavaca.
Local Transport for cultural and meal outings
You are responsible for your travel costs to and from Mexico City and any hotel costs in Mexico City prior and post retreat.
If travelling from abroad I suggest you arrange to arrive a day early so you are rested and ready for the retreat. As well, it will allow you to have a brief taste of Mexico City's amazing sights and ambiance.
Retreat Itinerary*
This itinerary is designed so that you have ample writing time, along with chances to relax, socialize with other retreat participants, and visit the beautiful and fascinating sights in the Cuernavaca area. If you feel the need for more time on your own, feel free to take time off the scheduled activities. This retreat is for YOU and our intention is to make it flexible enough to meet the differing needs of the attendees.
SATURDAY
12:00 pm: Meet for Lunch at Catedral Hotel (in the historic centre of Mexico City)
A chance to meet and greet with fellow attendees and discuss the exciting days ahead.
2:00 pm: Coach Departure to Cuernavaca
Enjoy the scenic journey to our retreat destination.
4:30 pm: Arrival and Check-In at Villa Bejar
Settle into your rooms, relax, and acquaint yourself with the beautiful surroundings.
6:00 pm: Welcome Dinner (included in price of retreat)
Join together for our first group meal, offering a taste of local cuisine.
7:30 pm – 9:00 pm: Welcome Session and Introductions
An informal gathering to introduce the retreat schedule, discuss goals, and get to know each other.
SUNDAY
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am-12:00 pm: Morning Writing Session
Kickstart the day with a focused writing session, guided by optional prompts and exercises.
12:00 pm: Lunch at the Resort
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm: Cultural Excursion
View exquisite international and Mexican art and artifacts at the Brady Museum
4:00 pm: Free Writing Time
6:00 pm: Dinner
7:30-9 pm: Group Discussion and Celebrations
Sharing and feedback on writing. Preparing the ground for next day's writing.
MONDAY to FRIDAY
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am: Writing Warm Ups and Focused Writing Time
10:30 am: Break
10:45 am: Writing time
12:15 pm-12:30 pm: Group Sharing
1:00 pm: Lunch at the resort or outside venue.
2:00-4:00: Cultural Excursions and Relaxation
Alternating days of cultural excursions (Palacio de Cortés,Museo Cuahnáhuac, etc.) and free time for relaxation
4-6:00 pm: Afternoon Writing Sessions
(Depending on the day we will also schedule workshops around key aspects of book creation and publishing with Sam Hiyare)
6:00 pm: Dinner
7:30 pm-9pm: Optional Readings (excerpts from day's writing) with group discussion and feedback, short fun activities to stimulate writing and creativity. Set up for following day's writing.
SATURDAY
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am–12:00 pm: Final Writing Session
Concluding writing activities and group sharing.
12:00 pm: Farewell Lunch A chance to celebrate our week, exchange contacts, and discuss next steps.
2:00 pm: Departure to Mexico City
Bid farewell to Villa Bejar and head back to Mexico City.
* Small adjustments may be made to this itinerary to suit better the needs of retreat participants.
This itinerary is designed so that you have ample writing time, along with chances to relax, socialize with other retreat participants, and visit the beautiful and fascinating sights in the Cuernavaca area. If you feel the need for more time on your own, feel free to take time off the scheduled activities. This retreat is for YOU and our intention is to make it flexible enough to meet the differing needs of the attendees.
SATURDAY
12:00 pm: Meet for Lunch at Catedral Hotel (in the historic centre of Mexico City)
A chance to meet and greet with fellow attendees and discuss the exciting days ahead.
2:00 pm: Coach Departure to Cuernavaca
Enjoy the scenic journey to our retreat destination.
4:30 pm: Arrival and Check-In at Villa Bejar
Settle into your rooms, relax, and acquaint yourself with the beautiful surroundings.
6:00 pm: Welcome Dinner (included in price of retreat)
Join together for our first group meal, offering a taste of local cuisine.
7:30 pm – 9:00 pm: Welcome Session and Introductions
An informal gathering to introduce the retreat schedule, discuss goals, and get to know each other.
SUNDAY
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am-12:00 pm: Morning Writing Session
Kickstart the day with a focused writing session, guided by optional prompts and exercises.
12:00 pm: Lunch at the Resort
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm: Cultural Excursion
View exquisite international and Mexican art and artifacts at the Brady Museum
4:00 pm: Free Writing Time
6:00 pm: Dinner
7:30-9 pm: Group Discussion and Celebrations
Sharing and feedback on writing. Preparing the ground for next day's writing.
MONDAY to FRIDAY
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am: Writing Warm Ups and Focused Writing Time
10:30 am: Break
10:45 am: Writing time
12:15 pm-12:30 pm: Group Sharing
1:00 pm: Lunch at the resort or outside venue.
2:00-4:00: Cultural Excursions and Relaxation
Alternating days of cultural excursions (Palacio de Cortés,Museo Cuahnáhuac, etc.) and free time for relaxation
4-6:00 pm: Afternoon Writing Sessions
(Depending on the day we will also schedule workshops around key aspects of book creation and publishing with Sam Hiyare)
6:00 pm: Dinner
7:30 pm-9pm: Optional Readings (excerpts from day's writing) with group discussion and feedback, short fun activities to stimulate writing and creativity. Set up for following day's writing.
SATURDAY
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am–12:00 pm: Final Writing Session
Concluding writing activities and group sharing.
12:00 pm: Farewell Lunch A chance to celebrate our week, exchange contacts, and discuss next steps.
2:00 pm: Departure to Mexico City
Bid farewell to Villa Bejar and head back to Mexico City.
* Small adjustments may be made to this itinerary to suit better the needs of retreat participants.
🎨 Your Creative Process, Honored and Amplified
The retreat, and the before and after activities is thoughtfully designed not just for the writing of your book but for the evolution of your entire creative process and publishing journey.
Retreat Cost Details
🌟 Regular Price: $3,000 US (Shared Room for Two)
🐦 Special Early Bird Offer (Until Dec 31st): $2,500 US (Installment Plans Available)
🛏️ Prefer a Private Room? Just add $500 US for the comfort and luxury of your own space.
Retreat Cost Details
🌟 Regular Price: $3,000 US (Shared Room for Two)
🐦 Special Early Bird Offer (Until Dec 31st): $2,500 US (Installment Plans Available)
🛏️ Prefer a Private Room? Just add $500 US for the comfort and luxury of your own space.
Exclusive Bonus for Early Birds!
🏆 First Three Signups Special: Receive a complimentary 90-minute private book coaching session with Katie, valued at $250 USD, to perfectly prepare for the retreat.
📚 Maximize your retreat experience with this one-on-one coaching opportunity!
🌟 Interested in Joining the Retreat? 🌟
💌 Apply for a FREE Consultation! Find out if this inspiring and productive retreat is the perfect fit for you.
Simply email [email protected] with the subject line "Spa Book Retreat."
💭 Take the first step towards a transformative writing experience!
About Katie (Retreat Organizer and Book Coach)
Katie Curtin, CPCC, is a best-selling author, multi-disciplinary artist, activist, and book coach. She's helped hundreds of changemakers and entrepreneurs to birth their creative projects into the world, including to create their best-selling books.
Katie's multi-faceted career includes working professionally as a writer, researcher, journalist, and editor, as well as being a success and breakthrough coach for one of the leading US coaching companies for conscious business owners.
She's the founder and host of the online Creativity Café, which features events and interviews with artists, thought leaders, and innovators.
Her first book,Women In China, published at the age of 24, went through three printings and was translated into French and Swedish. Her book The Happy Well-Fed Artist: How to Get Your Creative Projects Off the Ground and Into the World, was on the Amazon Best-Seller list. Currently she is working on Breaking Money Spells: Money Changes Everything but Doesn't Have to Change You, along with an accompanying workbook.
Katie's multi-faceted career includes working professionally as a writer, researcher, journalist, and editor, as well as being a success and breakthrough coach for one of the leading US coaching companies for conscious business owners.
She's the founder and host of the online Creativity Café, which features events and interviews with artists, thought leaders, and innovators.
Her first book,Women In China, published at the age of 24, went through three printings and was translated into French and Swedish. Her book The Happy Well-Fed Artist: How to Get Your Creative Projects Off the Ground and Into the World, was on the Amazon Best-Seller list. Currently she is working on Breaking Money Spells: Money Changes Everything but Doesn't Have to Change You, along with an accompanying workbook.
About Sam (Special Guest Workshop Leader and Consultant)
As the president of The Rights Factory, a prominent literary agency based in Toronto, Sam Hiyate has a distinguished 30+ year career that spans the breadth of the publishing industry. His journey through literary magazines, small presses, and collaboration with New York Times & Globe and Mail bestsellers has shaped him into a dynamic force in publishing.
Sam's expertise is not confined to one genre. He has skillfully edited and represented a diverse range from debut fiction and memoir, to narrative non-fiction and graphic novels. He brings this wealth of experience to his roles as a creative writing instructor at the University of Toronto and a publishing educator at Toronto Metropolitan University.
A sought-after lecturer and speaker, Sam shares his knowledge and passion for literature at colleges, universities, and writing conferences throughout the US and Canada. His dedication extends beyond just discovering new voices; he is committed to nurturing writers, preparing their works for the marketplace, and fostering lasting literary careers.
Several books Sam has represented have not only captured the hearts of readers but also secured places on local and international bestseller lists. His keen eye for talent and market trends is further exemplified by the bestselling authors he has published, including Jennifer Close, David Gilmour, Mariko Tamaki, Andrew Kaufman, Margot Berwin, Lee Matthew Goldberg, and Rupinder Gill.
Adding to his repertoire, Sam hosts the insightful podcast 'Agent Provocateur,' offering an exclusive peek behind the curtains of publishing and agenting. Through this platform, he demystifies the industry, making the world of books more accessible to aspiring authors and avid readers alike.
Sam Hiyate is not only one of Canada's top literary agents; he's a mentor, educator, and a beacon for those navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the book world.
Sam's expertise is not confined to one genre. He has skillfully edited and represented a diverse range from debut fiction and memoir, to narrative non-fiction and graphic novels. He brings this wealth of experience to his roles as a creative writing instructor at the University of Toronto and a publishing educator at Toronto Metropolitan University.
A sought-after lecturer and speaker, Sam shares his knowledge and passion for literature at colleges, universities, and writing conferences throughout the US and Canada. His dedication extends beyond just discovering new voices; he is committed to nurturing writers, preparing their works for the marketplace, and fostering lasting literary careers.
Several books Sam has represented have not only captured the hearts of readers but also secured places on local and international bestseller lists. His keen eye for talent and market trends is further exemplified by the bestselling authors he has published, including Jennifer Close, David Gilmour, Mariko Tamaki, Andrew Kaufman, Margot Berwin, Lee Matthew Goldberg, and Rupinder Gill.
Adding to his repertoire, Sam hosts the insightful podcast 'Agent Provocateur,' offering an exclusive peek behind the curtains of publishing and agenting. Through this platform, he demystifies the industry, making the world of books more accessible to aspiring authors and avid readers alike.
Sam Hiyate is not only one of Canada's top literary agents; he's a mentor, educator, and a beacon for those navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the book world.
What Other People Say About Katie and Sam
What I love about working with Sam is that it gives me a greater understanding of the industry. You can try to study creative writing in a class, but it's hard to learn what will set you apart until you work with someone who sells books for a living! If your goal is to eventually publish, I think Sam's advice and support is invaluable. He has added tremendous value to my near-finished manuscript.
Amy Dixon, Toronto
Amy Dixon, Toronto
I've been working with Katie Curtin for two years now as a trusted guide and advisor as I attempt to tame 20 years of my insights working with people in the Big Dream Program into a book. No easy feat, and I now see why I'd never got very far on my own.
Katie is INCREDIBLE. I've known her for 15 years now - and as a social activist, artist, brilliant coach, and friend she is 100% the right kind of vibe I needed in a mentor. She 'gets me' in a way that was crucial to this working.
Alex Baisley, Big Dream Program, Guelph, Ontario
I can’t remember a more enjoyable and informative presentation. Sam's stories from the world of publishing vividly illustrated his points. His ability to focus on each person’s work and rearrange elements showed directorial genius… I am very glad I attended and look forward to querying Sam when I am further along in [my writing].
— Tim Christian, Victoria
— Tim Christian, Victoria
Thanks to Katie Curtin’s breakthrough coaching, I am presently the author of two books with a third one on its way. Discovering Your Heart Voice and ABC’s of Grief are both Amazon best sellers! All this because of Katie’s ability to help me identify and clear away the sources of the resistance that blocked my writing flow time and time again.
Being in her book-writing program gave me the tools and structures I needed to be both productive and clear. It also facilitated my remaining accountable throughout the process. Katie’s one-on-one coaching empowered me to rediscover purpose and clarity when I felt stuck or inadequate for the task of writing a book.
Most importantly Katie taught me how to process my feelings and arrive at a place of freedom when points of resistance would surface. Our sessions left me feeling free and focused. I am so grateful that Katie Curtin’s gifts have touched my life!
Loretta McCarthy, Best-Selling Author, Lake County, California
Being in her book-writing program gave me the tools and structures I needed to be both productive and clear. It also facilitated my remaining accountable throughout the process. Katie’s one-on-one coaching empowered me to rediscover purpose and clarity when I felt stuck or inadequate for the task of writing a book.
Most importantly Katie taught me how to process my feelings and arrive at a place of freedom when points of resistance would surface. Our sessions left me feeling free and focused. I am so grateful that Katie Curtin’s gifts have touched my life!
Loretta McCarthy, Best-Selling Author, Lake County, California
I had a wonderful time with Sam yesterday. Could you please extend my appreciation to him for his time and all his invaluable advice? I cannot thank you and Sam enough for organizing this unique opportunity for new novelists such as myself. I hope to have another meeting with him in the future.
Yale Wang, Toronto
Yale Wang, Toronto
With Katie’s help, I no longer feel resigned or frustrated about my life and work. During our coaching period, a publisher rejected my nonfiction manuscript.Instead of sending me into a tailspin of gloom, as such rejections have done so often in the past, it simply energized me to take a new direction with this project, knowing that it ultimately will be very successful. That is a profound and welcome difference--being able to respond to a seeming “down” with the deep knowledge that it will turn out to be right for me. And it did. A year later I signed with a publisher and the book came out in 2015. Thanks, Katie!
Candace (C.L.) Talmadge, Inner Shift Specialist & Author, Santa Cruz, California, www.thehealingcirclebook.com
Candace (C.L.) Talmadge, Inner Shift Specialist & Author, Santa Cruz, California, www.thehealingcirclebook.com
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