hotel, condo or house for vacation?

Posted on: 9 February 2016

You've probably heard plenty of seasoned writers talking about going away to a remote location to work on their books. Perhaps you dream of the day when you will be like them and can plan your own escape to spend hours of uninterrupted time doing what you love most.

However, writing retreats aren't just for experienced writers and authors. Beginning writers can reap the same benefits from taking some time away to focus on their writing. With a little planning, you will soon be packing your bags and heading off to enjoy your first writing retreat.

Start a new tradition

Pick a season of the year that works best for your writing personality. For instance, if you find your inspiration kicks in on hot summer nights or when the snow is falling during the winter, choose a time of the year and location accordingly.

Two to three days is a good amount of time to plan for your first retreat. Plan to make it an annual tradition to go away around the same time each year if possible. This will give you something to look forward to and will help you take your writing seriously.

If finances are a concern, ask friends and loved ones to give you cash instead of gifts for birthdays and holidays. Save the money for your annual retreat.

Determine what type of lodging is best for you

Choosing the right lodging may be the most important part of your trip. If you aren't comfortable with your accommodations, it's not likely you will have a very productive writing retreat.

If motels seem cold and uninspiring to you, you may do best renting a cabin. However, make sure you select a cabin suitable for your needs. For instance, if the thought of being isolated makes you uneasy, choose a cabin in a more populated area.

Many cabin rental units are designed to give you plenty of privacy without being out in the middle of nowhere. A cabin rental agency, such as Red River Gorge Cabin Rentals, can help you select the perfect spot. Be sure to ask the cabin rental agency if you will have cell phone service and internet service if those are things you don't feel comfortable being without.

Make a plan

Seasoned writers will tell you that having no plans when going on a retreat can lead to disappointment. There's nothing that makes you feel worse than leaving a retreat and realizing you wrote nothing.

If you don't have any structure in your days, it's too easy to waste time. Social media, computer games, sleeping late, and watching TV can eat up large chunks of your writing time.

Develop a writing ritual to use only during your retreat to help you break free from your regular writing routine. For example, start each writing session with meditation, music, or by reading a short poem or excerpt from your favorite author. Light a candle. Make your favorite beverage.  

Decide ahead of time whether you will take your own food or go out for meals. Some writers take their food already prepared in order to keep interruptions to a minimum. Other writers prefer going out for meals.

Getting away from your regular routine is a great way to get your creativity flowing. Start by choosing the right location and accommodations where you feel comfortable. Make a plan and stick with it. At the end of your retreat, you will feel great knowing you've achieved your writing goals during your time away.