Life Writing in Penestanan - FAQ

When does the retreat start and finish?
We are still waiting on final dates for the 2026 Ubud Writers and Readers Festival. These will be in late October or early November. 

Where is Penestanan?
The hillside village of Penestanan lies an easy eight minute taxi ride from central Ubud, with its wealth of shops, cultural activities and famous landmarks including the Ubud Monkey Forest and Campuan Ridge Walk.
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Pool villa
Can you tell me a bit more about our accommodation?
Each pool villa offers 2-3 bedrooms, a delightful garden, shared pool, lounge area and fully equipped kitchen with filtered water dispenser. Participants each have their own air conditioned ensuite bedroom. 

Do I need to be an experienced writer?
Not at all. Whether you're an experienced writer or someone who's brand new to the craft, Jane's sessions will have you writing with greater authenticity and confidence.

Do I have to share a bedroom?
No. To support your creative process, you will have your own air-conditioned ensuite bedroom. 
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Villa bedroom
How is the retreat structured?
  • Each morning, Jane will offer a two hour writing workshop, where she will share ways to add texture and flavour to your writing. There will be a simple daily writing task and a suggested 1,000 word limit to keep you on track with your writing.
  • The rest of the day is yours to write, to rest and to get to know Bali.
  • Before day's end, you will gather with Jane and your fellow writers to debrief on the day's writing.
  • Included in your fee is a 45 minute one-on-one session with Jane to discuss your writing. To this end, you will be invited to provide Jane with a maximum 5,000 word exerpt (or exerpts) of your work(s) in progress or any other writing you would like feedback on.

Is there much free time?
Giving yourself time-out is as important a part of the creative process as the writing itself. Accordingly, your afternoons will be free.

What about meals?
A simple breakfast of coffee/tea, eggs, toast and fresh fruit served in your villa is included in the retreat fee. For other meals, here are many cheap cafes and juice bars within a five minute walk of the villas, including the famous raw vegan Alchemy cafe.

I'd really like to do some yoga while I'm there...
Two very good yoga shalas lie within 10 minutes' walk of the villas, offering daily classes to suit your schedule.

Are there any spas in Penestanan?
There are various spas in and around Penestanan where you can get a cheap massage, have your nails done or enjoy a delightful hair creme bath.

What about shopping?
Ubud, which lies an eight minute taxi ride away,offers a wealth of shopping options, including a lively market.

How much is the retreat?
AU$2595. This includes:
  • Seven night's villa accommodation in a private air conditioned ensuite bedroom
  • A daily writing workshop with Jane.
  • A one-on-one session with Jane to discuss your writing.
  • A signed copy of Jane's short story collection, "Cockroach".

How do I book?
To make your expression of interest, email Jane. Once dates are finalised you will be asked to confirm your interest and pay a $300 deposit.
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Kitchen and dining area