Alai's retreat was magical! San Sebastian was the perfect place for it: we had the beauty of the sea and mountains, the convenience of being in/near a city that was easy to get around in, and the wonderful basque culture (including pintxos!). The hotel was lovely, modern, and clean. The food at the hotel was a B+/A- for me. Most of it was fresh and delicious, but a few of the meals were not my thing. All of the desserts were amazing.
The painting sessions were my favorite part. Alai's instruction was easy to follow and it ALWAYS made my paintings better. I've learned so much from her and my use of color has improved 1000%. Her kindness, upbeat attitude, and sense of humor made for an open, accepting, and fun workspace. The women on the trip were also amazing--supportive, fun, and talented--and I would travel with them again in a heartbeat.
Alai had lots of very cool surprises for us throughout the trip. I won't spoil it for future retreaters, but they were great! Her staff was also so fun, attentive, and helpful. When the airline lost my luggage, everyone pitched in to offer clothes for me until I got my bag.
Everyone was sad to be going home at the end of the retreat--that pretty much says it all!
