retreat recreate -

Susan Kitchell

My time in northern Thailand and Laos (November 2024) was constantly awe-inspiring! From the amazing landscapes to the amazing people we got "up close and personal" with throughout the trip, not a moment went by without me learning something new and meaningful on numerous topics and subjects. Spending time with women who are making a real difference for their communities within these two Southeast Asian countries was inspiring. The workshops expanded my understanding of native crafts and textiles as well as my knowledge of the people who create them. The only downside to the trip was that it ended!

Sue Tate

Sensational… I think that’s the best description. Sensational in every way. The onslaught of colour, sound, humanity, smells, and tastes of India are intense. Our visits off the usual tourist track were sensational. The opportunity to meet artisans and makers in their own homes or studios, to sit with them and get a small insight into their world, was a privilege. I just wish they could have been longer.

The itinerary devised by Susan and retreat | recreate creative tours was well-paced with plenty of free time, and although this was not a shopping tour, we all managed to fill our cases—and then some—with treasures for home. The accommodations, mainly in havelis, were visual feasts packed with Indian curiosities and treasures. It felt like we were staying in museums, but with all the comforts of home.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of India, our guide Avdesh was unflappable. His calm, patient kindness, problem-solving skills, and generous care were just what we needed.

Sharing this adventure with a bunch of equally thread-obsessed textile aficionados was an absolute joy. They were all so kind-hearted, funny and generous-spirited—it felt like finding my crafty soulmates! The memories will stay with me forever, as will the Islands in the Stream earworm!

Leanne Toby

There are not enough superlatives to describe how much I enjoyed the Retreat Recreate tour to India in October 2024. The care and attention to detail in all of the activities was exceptional. No other tour company offers this level of experience. I gained so much from engaging with the local Indian people and from my fellow travelers. We enjoyed many, many laughs along the way and no matter how many photos we took, it's hard to convey just how wonderful this trip was. I can't wait to go on another adventure with Susan!

Clare Tizard

I have just completed a 19 day India Textiles and Craft tour with Retreat Retreat. As I had never before been on an organised tour I was unsure what to expect. I knew that I would enjoy the history, craft and food of India, and I assumed that travelling with an organised tour to would be an good introduction to India. I was, however, unprepared for how wonderful the experience of touring India, with a like-minded group of women would be. My experience on this Retreat, Recreate tour completely, and totally exceeded my expectations. The tour was incredibly well organised. All the hotels were delightful and the choice of workshops interesting and informative. Of note were the visits to cultural attractions and historic sites, which always involved excellent guides. The pace of the tour was perfect, and there was lots of laughter, joy, happy shared, meals, and moments when I was moved to tears. I cannot recommend this organisation more highly and I will certainly be undertaking another tour in the future.

MA Blotzer

The trip to Northern Thailand and Lao exceeded my already high expectations. We went of the beaten path, visiting villages and local museums. Villagers gave workshops on dyeing with natural dyes, Hmong batik and embroidery, weaving, spinning and other textile arts. We visited local museums and shops where experts educated us on ikat weaving, the process of silk making from raising the silk worms to spinning the cocoons into thread to dyeing the thread to setting up the loom to weaving! You will leave with a new appreciation of these complex art forms. You will also laugh, have loads of fun, and enjoy the comaraderie of other textile enthusiasts.

This was made possible by the research and care taken by the owners of Retreat Recreate. From the moment I booked the trip, they impressed me with the thoroughness of their preparation and the care they showed for our enjoyment and well-being. Pre-trip planning information (visas, vaccinations, packing info) wasd comprehensive and helpful. They responded promptly to each question that I had. They arranged for the bset local guides and drivers. Throughout the tour they were a source of valuable information and support. I look forward to further adventures with them.

Brigitte Zimmermann

Textile tour Thailand/Laos was my second trip with retreat/recreate. All workshops were fantastic and we had enough time to bring home a piece of souvenier . My favorite workshop was Eco print, silk weaving and indigo dye cold and hot with the Baci Ceremony. The highlight were Mimi village and the relaxed Mekong cruise. The accommodation were well selected like The Namkat Yorla Pa Resort and Nong Kiau Riverside. I am not a group traveller but retreat/recreate tours are always small and with like minded woman. I recommend this tour for all who are interested in culture, art and craft. You will see the real life of the country you visit.

Karen Crawford

I recently went to Japan with retreat|recreate. It was my first tour with this company. I found the organisation of the trip to be thorough. The hotels were of a high standard and close to transport. Our guide was really great. She was knowledgeable, funny and extremely organised. She handled the personalities of the group very well. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend retreat|recreate to my friends.

Jane Gibson

I have experienced such joy, laughter, great companionship and what was a wonderful and magical dip into Rajasthani culture on this trip with Retreat/Recreate.
I would not hesitate to travel with this company again. The activities, workshops, sightseeing, accommodation, food and transport have been so well researched and presented. It was sensory overload in the very best way. Colour, colour, colour, textiles, artisans, happy smiling faces, interaction with locals, magical places to stay and explore.