About this trip
Experience the splendor of Tolo, Greece, at The John & George Hotel for a full week of writing classes and writing! We will also tour an ancient theater, visit several islands (Hydra and Spetses), and the gorgeous town of Nafplio, all for one low price!
✍️ Write Where Inspiration Lives — in Greece!
Join us for an unforgettable writing retreat set in the storybook beauty of Tolo, Greece. Each day blends focused writing classes with soul-stirring experiences designed to awaken your creativity.
Come for the writing. Stay for the magic. Leave transformed.
Calling all storytellers! 🖋️✨ Unplug from the ordinary and plug into inspiration at our upcoming writing retreat. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, surround yourself with fellow writers, and let the creative energy flow. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting your literary journey, join us for a week of words, wisdom, and wonderful connections. Let's turn the blank page into a canvas of endless possibilities! 🌿📖 #WritingRetreat #InkAndImagination #CreateWithPassion
✍️ What You’ll Learn — A Transformational Writing Experience
This isn’t just a retreat—it’s a full creative and professional upgrade for your writing life. Whether you’re just beginning your novel or polishing a manuscript for publication, our immersive sessions are designed to elevate your craft and your confidence. Over the course of the retreat, you'll explore:
🧠 The Craft of Storytelling
- Find Your Novel’s Core Idea: Discover the heart of your story and build from a foundation that excites you—and your reader.
- To Outline or Not?: We’ll break down story planning methods so you can find the writing process that works for you.
- Build Motivation: Set a writing rhythm that fuels your creativity, whether it’s word counts, goal tracking, or intuitive flow.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Learn how to evoke emotion and action with vivid examples and hands-on practice.
- Active vs. Passive Voice: We’ll demystify this key technique with practical tips and examples that will immediately sharpen your prose.
💡 Style, Pacing & Emotional Impact
- Strengthen Your Style: From removing filler words to improving cadence and sentence flow, you’ll learn what makes writing sing.
- Mastering Pacing: Understand how to keep readers turning pages—what to speed up, what to slow down, and what to cut.
- Character Motivation & Scene Purpose: Learn how every moment on the page should move your story and characters forward.
- Write to Reader Psychology: Discover how to deliver emotional satisfaction, surprise, and connection—so your readers stay hooked.
- Self-Editing Mastery: Save money and impress agents by tightening your prose with proven techniques and checklists.
🔥 Make It Unputdownable
- Inject Tension: Learn practical tools for adding suspense and urgency, no matter your genre.
- Heighten Emotion: Discover ways to amplify feelings on every page so readers care deeply about your characters.
🎯 Publishing & Promotion Essentials
- Industry Standards: Understand proper manuscript setup, formatting, and submission etiquette so you look like a pro.
- Cover Design Tips: Whether self-publishing or traditionally publishing, get insider advice on what sells visually.
- Publishing Pathways: Explore the pros and cons of self-publishing vs. traditional routes—and how to succeed in either.
- Query Like a Pro: For those submitting to agents, we’ll demystify the process and share examples that work.
📣 Author Platform & Long-Term Support
- Promotion on a Budget: Learn how to find readers organically—and amplify your reach with affordable, efficient strategies.
- Promotion 101 with Author Rania Stone: A beginner-friendly guide to social media marketing, landing pages, funnel building, and essential website strategies to strengthen your online presence.
- Ongoing Community: After the retreat, you’ll receive continued support, including video calls to discuss your writing goals and personalized guidance for your career.
✅ And as your work comes into the world, we’ll promote your book launches across our combined platforms—reaching over 50,000 followers.
🌟 This is more than a retreat. It’s the next chapter of your writing journey.
THE RETREAT WEEK SUMMARY:
✨ A Day in the Life at the Retreat
Each morning begins with a relaxed buffet breakfast served between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m., giving you time to ease into your day with good food and great company.
Our morning writing sessions run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a short break to recharge. (You’ll find full session details in your personalized itinerary.) These sessions are designed to deepen your craft, spark new ideas, and give you practical tools you can use immediately in your work.
Afternoons are yours. Whether you want to dive into your manuscript, walk the beach, swim, hike, nap, or simply reflect, you’ll have the freedom to use this time however your creativity requires. We also offer private one-on-one sessions with our guest authors—an hour dedicated to your questions, your work, and your goals.
We gather again around 7:00 p.m. for a delicious group dinner, followed by relaxed and inspiring evenings centered around all things writing: ✨ Readings & peer critiques ✨ Stories of publishing success ✨ Career Q&As and honest advice ✨ Marketing strategies to find readers without spending a fortune.
Whether you’re in search of motivation, feedback, or just a community that truly gets it, the evenings offer a perfect blend of camaraderie and creative momentum.
📚 Jonas Saul – International Bestselling Thriller Author & Writing Mentor
Jonas Saul is the internationally bestselling author of the Sarah Roberts Series, with over 2 million copies sold and more than 60 thrillers published. His gripping, high-stakes storytelling has earned him a place on Amazon charts alongside—and often above—icons like Stephen King and Dean Koontz. In Hollywood, Jonas secured representation and signed multiple development deals, including a major option with MadRiver Pictures for the Sarah Roberts franchise—currently in development for screen adaptation. As a dynamic and sought-after speaker, teacher, and workshop leader, Jonas is a regular guest at international writing conferences and film festivals.
He shares his expertise on crafting tension, building emotional resonance, and navigating the complex path to publishing success. Currently based in Greece, Jonas hosts annual writing retreats in inspiring global locations, helping writers elevate their craft while building lifelong creative communities. In addition to writing, Jonas is a respected freelance editor with a keen eye for story, pacing, and structure. He collaborates with publishers and private clients alike, offering editing services through his boutique imprint, ImaginePress.org. His work is backed by dozens of glowing testimonials from authors who have leveled up their manuscripts under his guidance. Whether you're looking for a pulse-pounding thriller or a masterclass in writing, Jonas Saul delivers both—with intensity, clarity, and heart.
🔍 Guest Author: Dwayne Clayden
Bestselling Author | Tactical Expert | Award-Winning First Responder
Dwayne Clayden is a bestselling author of gripping crime thrillers and razor-sharp police procedurals, known for his unflinching realism and edge-of-your-seat storytelling. With over four decades of frontline experience as a police officer, tactical paramedic, firefighter, and EMS chief, Dwayne brings an unmatched level of authenticity to every page.
Based in Alberta, Canada, he has also served as an educator and academic chair, training the next generation of emergency professionals. His distinguished service has been honored with multiple awards, including:
– The Exemplary Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada
– The Exemplary Service Medal from the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta
– The Long Service Medal from the City of Calgary
– The Award of Excellence from the Alberta Paramedics Association
From the adrenaline-fueled streets of Calgary to the gripping scenes of his novels, Dwayne Clayden lives and breathes high-stakes, high-integrity storytelling.
Cancellation Policy
🗓️ Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. That’s why we offer a 100% refund for any cancellations made on or before July 19, 2025—a full two months prior to the retreat start date. After this date, all venue payments are finalized, and unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds. Thank you for your understanding, and we’re here to assist with any questions you may have.
Waiver of Liability
⚖️ Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk
By registering for and participating in this retreat hosted by Imagine Greece Retreats (IGR), I acknowledge and agree to the following terms:
- Assumption of Risk I understand that my participation in retreat activities—including but not limited to yoga, meditation, sightseeing, hiking, and other physical or group activities—carries inherent risks that may result in personal injury, illness, or other unforeseen consequences. I voluntarily assume full responsibility for any such risks, known or unknown, and confirm that I am physically and mentally able to participate.
- Release of Liability I hereby release, waive, and discharge Imagine Greece Retreats (IGR), its organizers, faculty, staff, contractors, and the host venue from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action whatsoever, including those resulting from negligence, that may arise from or relate to any loss, damage, injury, illness, or inconvenience incurred during my participation in the retreat.
- Financial Responsibility I agree to be solely financially responsible for any medical treatment, transportation, or additional services required as a result of an injury or emergency while attending the retreat.
- Voluntary Participation & Right to Withdraw I understand that all activities are voluntary, and I may choose not to participate in any activity that I feel may pose a risk to my well-being. I agree to communicate any concerns or discomfort to the retreat staff immediately.
- Compliance with Safety Guidelines I agree to follow all written and verbal instructions and safety guidelines provided by IGR and its representatives. I acknowledge that failure to do so may result in my removal from certain activities or the retreat itself, without refund.
- Waiver of Claims By signing below, I expressly waive the right to bring any legal action or claim against IGR, its faculty, staff, or affiliates for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from my participation in the retreat, except in cases of willful misconduct or gross negligence.
I have read and fully understand this waiver of liability and assumption of risk. I acknowledge that by participating in this retreat, I am entering into a binding legal agreement.
What’s included
- Transport to/from hotelA hotel van will transport us from Athens to Tolo, and back to Athens at the completion of the retreat.
- AccommodationsAll seven nights at The John & George Hotel are covered in the writing retreat fee.
- Access to SessionsThe retreat fee gives you access to all the sessions, plus one-on-ones, and more!
- Greek Buffet BreakfastBuffet breakfast is served every day from 8:00 - 9:30 with a wide variety of dishes and beverages: Coffee, tea, juices, jam, cheeses, olives, eggs, warm dishes, seasonal fruits, and more ...
- DinnerGreek and American dishes.
- Tour Epidaurus!Visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, regarded as the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Then we visit a local olive oil factory in an amazing environment surrounded by olive trees.
- Evening Walk of NafplioTour of Nafplio which is the first capital of Greece. You will see the old town built by the Venetians, and the castle of Bourtzi, as well as Palamidi.
- Hydra and Spetses TourTour the picturesque island of Hydra with its unique singularity: the absence of cars on the island. Then continue to Spetses Island where "Knives Out" was filmed!
- Retreat MaterialsAttendees will be given a gift bag of fun and exciting things related to the retreat.
What’s not included
- Flights to/from GreeceAttendees must find their own way to and from Greece.
- Refreshments/BeveragesThe one thing your fee does not cover are beverages. All beverages can be charged to your room and settled up upon check-out.
- Alcoholic BeveragesAs noted above, all alcoholic beverages can be charged to your room and settled up later.
- LunchesThe hotel supplies us with buffet breakfast and dinner. Lunch can be ordered at the restaurant, or in town.
- Travel InsurancePlease investigate what travel insurance works best for you, if needed.
- Hotel Tax FeeThere may be a small fee of a few euros when checking out to cover the hotel tax fee the Greek government imposes upon hotels.
Available Packages
Most of the rooms can accommodate anywhere from two to four people. Note: The rate for these rooms is lower based on double occupancy or more. This rate is per person in the room.
- Wi-Fi Internet
- Hairdryer
- Equipped Kitchen
- DVD
- Air Condition
- Balcony
- Bath Tube
- W/C
Consists of one spacious room overlooking the garden or the swimming pool. Each room has its own unique design.
- Wi-Fi Internet
- Hairdryer
- Equipped Kitchen
- DVD
- Air Condition
- Balcony
- Bath Tube
- W/C
Available Add-Ons
Retreat spouses and friends can take a double-occupancy room. The fee covers their accommodations, excursions, and food. (They are not eligible to attend classes, though.)
Itinerary
These are optional tours. Fly in early enough to join us!
Pre-Retreat Athens Adventure
September 18th
Morning
- Start the day with a group breakfast in Monastiraki, savoring traditional Greek dishes while taking in the lively atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.
- Stroll along Ermou Street, Athens' vibrant shopping hub, and enjoy some leisurely browsing before making our way to the iconic Parliament Building.
Mid-Morning
- Witness the Changing of the Guard at the Parliament Building—an unforgettable display of precision and tradition.
- Take a relaxing walk through the lush National Gardens, where you can enjoy a refreshing beverage, admire the greenery, and spend a peaceful moment in nature.
Afternoon
- Visit the Kallimarmaro Stadium, the world’s only stadium made entirely of white marble, and feel the history of the first modern Olympic Games.
- Explore the grandeur of the Temple of Zeus, one of the most significant monuments of ancient Athens.
- Stroll through the picturesque Zappeion Gardens and admire the elegant architecture of the Zappeion Hall.
- We will end our tour in front of the Parliament Building, completing our circular route. From here, you can walk back along Ermou Street for more shopping or simply relax.
Evening
- Wrap up the day with a group dinner at a fantastic Monastiraki restaurant, where we’ll indulge in delicious Greek cuisine and share stories from the day.
The duration is approximately 4–5 hours, perfect for immersing yourself in the heart of Athens before our retreat begins.
Athens Adventure: The Day Before We Head to Tolo
September 19th
Morning
- Begin with a group breakfast in Monastiraki, soaking in the morning charm of the city.
10:00 a.m.
- Embark on a guided tour of the Acropolis Museum, where history comes alive with its incredible artifacts and stories from ancient Athens.
Afternoon
- Noon: Experience the grandeur of the Acropolis and Parthenon on a guided tour. Dive deep into the rich history and architecture of this iconic site.
- 3:00 p.m.: Enjoy free time to relax, explore, or shop in nearby Plaka or Monastiraki at your own pace.
Evening
- 7:00 p.m.: Optional pre-dinner drinks at a chic location (details provided closer to the day).
- 8:00 p.m.: Gather for a delightful dinner at Hermion, a beloved restaurant known for its authentic Greek cuisine and warm atmosphere.
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