The Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica

Playa Negra, Puerto Viejo

20th October – 27th October 2024


Break free from burnout, overcome writer’s block, and immerse yourself in a haven of inspiration, sisterhood, and relaxation. Join us on a transformative retreat to reignite your creativity.



The retreat


Join us for an enriching week in Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean jungle, just moments away from the vibrant Puerto Viejo beach town! Each morning will begin with yoga, quiet time, writing workshops, and a delicious healthy breakfast. Afternoons will be dedicated to writing, exploration, and most importantly relaxation. Whether you are a published, or agented, writer in need of dedicated writing time to work on your manuscript, or you want to explore your creative side in an encouraging environment, this retreat is for you.

All workshops aim to nurture your writing voice and boost your creative confidence in a pressure-free setting. You will have the time and space to create new work, revise your works-in-progress, or to simply just be!

You will leave the retreat rested, and with the foundations of a healthy writing practice, and a lifelong community of Black Women and Women of Colour writers from around the globe. 

Dates: Sunday 20th October – Sunday 27th October 2024

**This will be our last retreat! Join us for this special finale retreat!!!***


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

At our retreat, we celebrate the essence of farm-to-table dining, ensuring that each meal is a masterpiece crafted from the finest, locally sourced produce. Picture the crisp crunch of just-picked vegetables, the succulent sweetness of ripe fruits, and the invigorating zest of hand-pressed juices. Our chef transforms these ingredients into culinary works of art, plated to perfection. From sunrise to sunset, savor the goodness of nature’s bounty as it graces your plate, creating a dining experience that nourishes both body and soul. The retreat package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All dietary requirements and preferences will taken into account. On some days, we’ll enjoy lunch on the beach, or by the waterfall!


Retreat Activities

Sample Day

Morning Yoga

Healthy Breakfast

Writing Workshop

Writing / relaxing time

Bri Bri Cacao and Waterfall Tour

Evening Meal

Punta Uva Beach Day

Discover Punta Uva, a hidden gem nestled along Costa Rica’s pristine Caribbean coastline. This idyllic destination is a haven for those seeking untouched natural beauty, serene beaches, vibrant marine life, and the perfect spot for unwinding. Punta Uva, named after the iconic “Grape Point,” offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of turquoise waters, lush rainforests, or the laid-back charm of the Caribbean culture, Punta Uva promises an unforgettable experience. Relax by the sun-kissed beach, where the rhythmic sounds of waves provide the soundtrack to your rejuvenation.

Cacao Experience by Bribri Indigenous Culture

Indulge in a unique chocolate adventure within an indigenous village, where Bribri culture unfolds before you. Led by an insightful guide, dive into their community and lifestyle. Delight in a hands-on experience as you learn the art of chocolate making and even create your own sweet masterpieces. Conclude your journey with a blissful swim at a nearby waterfall, adding the perfect touch to this immersive exploration.

Playa Negra Beach

Named for its distinctive feature, Playa Negra, or “black beach,” boasts soft ebony sands and a tranquil ambiance. Just a brief 15-minute stroll from our accommodations, this secluded haven offers a serene escape. Join us for a leisurely lunch and a refreshing swim, away from the hustle and bustle, in the embrace of this less crowded paradise.

Zip Lining

Embark on an exhilarating zip-lining adventure! We will join a knowledgeable naturalist guide on a jungle hike through the scenic landscapes of Costa Rica. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you soar across one of the world’s most stunning jungles, taking in breathtaking views along the way.

Welcome Bath Experience with Live Music & Vocals

Dive into an immersive oasis with our Welcome Bath Experience. Let the soothing waves of live music and vocals envelop you. Indulge in the perfect harmony of relaxation and melody.

Quiet time / writing time

Enjoy some tranquility or focus on your writing during the designated quiet time. This retreat is yours to shape as you desire! Whether you’re immersed in a writing project or simply seeking relaxation, the accommodation provides all the amenities you require. Feel free to stay within the space if that’s your preference – everything you need is right at your fingertips.


Writing workshops

Starting to Write/Finding the Spark Workshop

Embark on your writing journey with our Starting to Write Workshop, where creativity takes center stage. Discover the sparks that ignite your imagination and learn the essential tools to kickstart your writing endeavors. From unleashing your inner storyteller to conquering the blank page, this workshop is your compass into the captivating world of words.

Discovering and rediscovering Black Women in Literature

The objective of this workshop is to explore the works of  Black women authors. We will be studying classic literature as well as some new classics, finding common experiences, and examining the way that different authors use language to illuminate the inner lives of Black women and girls.

Fiction-Writing: Character, Plot & Setting/World-Building Workshop

Dive deep into the art of fiction in our immersive workshop. Explore the intricacies of character development, craft compelling plots, and learn the secrets of building vivid settings and immersive worlds. Whether you’re a novice seeking foundational skills or a seasoned writer refining your techniques, this workshop is your gateway to crafting compelling and unforgettable stories.

Poetry Workshop and Open Mic

Delve into the enchanting realm of poetry in our dedicated workshop. Unleash your creativity through the power of words, rhythm, and emotion. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just dipping your toes into verse, this workshop provides a nurturing space to explore different poetic forms, techniques, and discover your unique poetic voice! We’ll end the day with an open mic night.

Editing/Routes into Publishing Workshop

Sharpen your editorial skills and navigate the intricate path to publishing success in our Editing/Routes into Publishing Workshop. 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 Sonora Caribbean & Jungle Retreat.

Nestled within a 15-20 minute stroll from the serene Playa Negra Beach, Sonora stands as an eco-friendly boutique lodge, offering a respite from the bustling crowds. Surrounded by the captivating transition from powerful nature to lush jungle, the lodge is cradled by ancient trees, vibrant flowers, and a symphony of wildlife.

Crafted by Italian designers, Sonora’s modern architecture is a testament to elegance. Its interior boasts refined decorations, soft-coloured fine linen and cotton fabrics, and warm accents of Caribbean wood. The luxury accommodations are meticulously curated, ensuring each element contributes to a memorable stay.

Sonora invites you to experience luxury, nature, and conscious living in harmony. Visit Sonora online here

You will be accommodated in a casita, a petite wooden cabin, which you will share with one other participant, two if you book a triple room. Each casita is equipped with its private bathroom and an adjoining outdoor deck. Single occupancy rooms are available at an extra fee.


About Costa Rica

Costa Rica extends majestically from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea with a width distance of barely 200 miles. Its land portion occupies only 20 thousand square miles. The variations in landscape and climate from province to province are stunning.

Costa Rica is one of the most highly valued tourist destinations on the planet. This small piece of land has all the necessary components to intrigue and continually satisfy the millions who visit each year. Costa Rica has extensive tourism offerings, including rainforests, volcanoes, rivers travelling through the mountains, beaches, national parks and forest reserves.

One of the first terms you’ll hear when in Costa Rica is “Pura vida,” which literally means ‘pure life.’ These two words sum up everything that makes this Central American paradise so amazing. 


This Journey is Uniquely Crafted for You if…

  • You are burnt out from work, deadlines, personal life or academia
  • You are looking for rest and relaxation  
  • You love solo travelling
  • You are a writer in need of dedicated writing time and / or inspiration
  • You dream of being a published writer but don’t know where to start
  • You are looking for sisterhood and community
  • You are feeling ‘stuck’ creatively or otherwise
  • Want to celebrate yourself and your achievements in community with other Black Women and Women and of Colour writers

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

LalahSimone Springer – Poet and writer

Retreat participant 2023
Nadine Lesforis – writer
Retreat participant 2023

PACKAGE

What is included

Roundtrip to airport hotel

Accommodation at Sonora

Welcome meal and sound bath experience

Morning Yoga every day

Breakfast, lunch & dinner each day (excluding goodbye dinner)

Cacao and Waterfalls Tour

Zip Lining Activity

Transport to and from retreat activities

All writing workshops


What is not included

Airfare & visas

Travel insurance

All transport that is not part of the retreat programme

Food and drink outside of the retreat programme

Therapy treatments

Extra activities and excursions

Goodbye dinner at Soca restaurant

Hotel stay before and after the retreat


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.


Guest Tutor

Rowana Abbensetts-Dobson is a Guyanese-American writer, author of Departure Story, and founder of Spoken Black Girl, a publishing & media company that promotes mental health and wellness among Black women & women of color by amplifying the voices of emerging writers. Rowana has had fiction and poetry published in Moko Magazine, Obsidian: Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora, Culture Push, When We Exhale: Anthology of Black Women Rooted in Ancestral Medicine, and Free Verse Magazine. As a freelance health and wellness writer, Rowana has written for Insider, GoodRx, Well +Good, Bold Culture by Streamline Media, The Tempest, Insider, and Electric Lit.


Guest Tutor

afshan d’souza-lodhi was born in Dubai and forged in Manchester. She is a writer of scripts and poetry. Her work has been performed and translated into numerous languages across the world. afshan has edited many anthologies and has an essay featured in Picador’s collection by Muslim women called Its Not About The Burqa. Her debut poetry collection ‘re:desire’ (Burning Eye Books) has been longlisted for the Jhalak Prize (2021). Her most recent play, Santi & Naz (co-written with Guleraana Mir) described as “tender yet sharply political” by The Guardian, won the Vault Outstanding New Work Award in 2020.


GETTING TO COSTA RICA

ARRIVAL INFORMATION

For your journey to our retreat, the nearest airport is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). If you’re flying in from the UK or Europe, anticipate a 15-hour flight duration, including a layover. Our serene retreat takes places in Puerto Viejo, a scenic 5-6 hour drive from the airport. To ensure a seamless experience, we recommend arriving in Costa Rica on or before 19th October. We recommend reserving a room at the Adventure Inn Hotel, where all participants will be conveniently picked up on October 20th and transported to Puerto Viejo. Please note that your retreat package does not include the stay at Adventure Inn or any other hotel; it’s a helpful suggestion, and the designated pick-up point for the retreat. Further details will be provided upon booking.


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. To become a member click here.

  • Members Presale Triple Occupancy: £1,925 / $2,415 / €2,243 (ends 31st Jan 2024, limited rooms)
  • Members Presale Double Occupancy: £2,200 / $2,760 / €2,564 (ends 31st Jan 2024)
  • Members Presale Single Occupancy: £2,550 / $3,252 / €2,983 (ends 31st Jan 2024, limited rooms ) SOLD OUT

  • Members regular Triple Occupancy: £2,024 / $2,540 / €2,358 (limited rooms)
  • Members regular Double Occupancy: £2,300 / $2,880 / €2,679
  • Members regular Single Occupancy: £2,650 / $3,379 / €3,100 SOLD OUT

STANDARD PRICES (non-membership)

  • Standard Early Bird Triple Occupancy: £2,224 / $2,790 / €2,591 (ends 31st May 2024, limited rooms)
  • Standard Early Bird Double Occupancy: £2,514 / $3,154 / €2,928 (ends 31st May 2024)
  • Standard Early Bird Single Occupancy: £2,864 / $3,652 / €3,350 (ends 31st May 2024, limited rooms) SOLD OUT

  • Standard Triple Occupancy: £2,524 / $3,167 / €2,940 (limited rooms)
  • Standard Double Occupancy: £2,814 / $3,530 / €3,278
  • Standard Single Occupancy: £3,164 / $4,024 / €3,696 (limited rooms) SOLD OUT


To Join Us

**This will be our last retreat! Join us for this special finale retreat!!!***

  • Choose your room type
  • Make your non-refundable deposit of £500 / $630 / €582
  • 50% of your balance is due within 3 months of booking
  • You can then pay the remaining 50% in 3 monthly installments, or pay the remaining amount within 3 months
  • Final payment is due by 20th September 2024
  • 5% discount if paid in full

Choose your room


PAYMENTS FROM OUTSIDE OF THE UK. IF YOU LIVE OUTSIDE OF THE UK – PLEASE USE THE BUTTON BELOW TO MAKE YOUR PAYMENT VIA STRIPE.


To pay in full UK


To pay in full $


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 Costa Rica here https://www.visitcostarica.com/en/costa-rica/planning-your-trip/entry-requirements