I discovered the power of retreats last summer and since then I intend to do at least one retreat a year to recharge the parts known and reveal the parts unknown.

This most recent one I attend was related to photography and social media ran by a respected gal of Macs Explore where all attendees were women. Once I saw it was happening at a place I have never been to, I was sold!

Not knowing who you are going to meet, what are your exact accommodations are (other than an itinerary) can really be nerve racking when we talk about retreats. It is infinitely a vulnerable situation with infinite possibilities of rewarding experiences at the same time.

On my way there, my inner introvert was hoping I would have enough alone time. Yet, when I got assigned to a bunk bed situation, I did not resist the situation and sought the best of it. And boy, did I have nothing to worry about with amazing roomies to share few days with!

We spent a total of 5 days together, each day packed with outdoor activities and at home workshops. We got to know each other, eating together, joking together and making memories together.

And really most of the time, we took gazillion pictures of one another. What else would expect from a 19 women who loves traveling and photography, come together?!

I understood that people who have a special love for traveling, to the point they can spend their lives on the road, share lots of common values and are probably the most easy going people you can ever find!

What I took away from the retreat was lots of new friendships, a deeper appreciation for what it takes to be successful on social media and celebration of the principle I share with all of the women who joined: “Community over competition”.

Another beautiful retreat on the books with new found friendships.