# Write Your Own Personal Essay Retreat with Author Esme Weijun Wang in Spain Join bestselling author Esmé Weijun Wang on a personal essay writing retreat in the sun-drenched hills of southern Spain. Throughout the week, Esmé will guide you and your fellow writers from brainstorming your best nonfiction topic to structure, drafting, and creating a finished first draft, all while teaching you how to navigate the emotional terrain of writing about your own life. Esmé’s relaxed and engaging classes will blend short craft talks with hands-on exercises and open sharing. The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Office hours will also be available throughout the retreat for one-on-one time with Esmé and personalized feedback on your work. Beyond the workshops, set out on exciting adventures to the vibrant town of Almería, with its renowned landmark, the impressive Alcazaba Fortress, and to the mesmerizing coast of Cabo de Gata. During your trips, enjoy delightful lunches at a local restaurant in San José and a local Andalusian establishment in Almería. Relax in your private room surrounded by cacti, tiled paths, and sweeping views of the horizon. Each day, share delicious, chef-prepared meals and unwind with dinner and conversation after immersing yourself in your writing. At the end of the retreat, you will leave with a finished draft of a personal essay and a writing practice that you can take home with you. ## Details - **Dates:** May 31 - June 7, 2027 - **Location:** Níjar, Almería, Spain - **Starting Price:** $5,050 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 18 students - **Category:** [Writing](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/writing) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/writing) ## Overview **What's included** 1. Writing sessions, individual tuition and a programme with author Esmé Weijun Wang 2. A wooden laptop/writing stand for bed and an extra lamp in each room for individual writing time 3. Workshop spaces equipped with: tables and chairs, a projector, TV, screen, printer–scanner, power outlets and extension cords, high-speed wireless Internet throughout the estate, a Bluetooth speaker, and foldable outdoor chairs 4. 7 nights of accommodation at a charming countryside Spanish estate 5. Exclusive use of the entire country estate with three indoor workshop spaces, vast gardens, outdoor spaces (that can be used for workshops), a swimming pool, common areas, and accommodation spaces 6. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef 7. All diets catered for, including pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 8. Fragrant local wine and non-alcoholic alternatives during dinner service 9. Snack bar with coffee, tea, water, and snacks available throughout the day 10. Half-day trip to Almería and a guided visit to the historic Alcazaba Fortress 11. Lunch and drinks at a well-known special establishment during the trip to Almería 12. Entrance ticket to the Alcazaba of Almería 13. (Optional) Half-day trip to the coastline of Cabo de Gata Natural Park 14. Lunch at a local restaurant in San José during the trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park 15. Highly knowledgeable English-speaking guide for all trips 16. Private transportation for all planned trips 17. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Almería Airport (LEI) at prearranged times 18. Fully staffed venue with an experienced retreat admin/UpTrek host, drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff on location 19. All local tourist taxes and fees 20. Access to a private Facebook group with Esmé Weijun Wang and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - Materials — a list of materials recommended by author Esmé Weijun Wang will be provided five months before the retreat takes place - Tips for staff — tipping is customary in Spain - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### Write Your Own Personal Essay Retreat Join bestselling author Esmé Weijun Wang on a week-long personal essay writing retreat in the warm, sun-drenched landscape of southern Spain. Across the week, Esmé will guide you from your very first brainstorm session to a finished draft, helping you find your best nonfiction topic, choose the right structure for your story, access and write about difficult emotions, and navigate the ethics of telling stories that involve the people in your life. Esmé’s classes will be relaxed and interactive, focusing on sharing information and doing exercises based on the discussions. Each session will involve a short craft talk, followed by a quick exercise, and then sharing with fellow writers. You will learn as much from the people writing alongside you as you will from the exercises themselves, and Esmé will foster the kind of environment where that exchange happens naturally. Office hours will be available throughout the week for one-on-one time with Esmé, bookable in advance so you can get personalized feedback on your work. The retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some prior writing experience, as well as familiarity with Esmé's work and style of teaching. **Some of the topics covered in your classes with Esmé will include:** - Leaving with a finished draft of a personal essay - Developing practical strategies for structure, organization, and drafting - Accessing and writing emotions in personal nonfiction - Navigating the ethics of writing a personal essay - Keeping a journal to track information for memoir and personal essays - Using index cards to organize and write your story - Practicing self-care while writing about personal topics - Understanding how the publishing industry works - Understanding how to write a book proposal - Expanding your personal essay literacy through curated reading recommendations from Esmé - …and many more! Beyond the workshops, soak up the warmth of Andalusia with two trips into the surrounding region. Spend a half day in Almería, enjoying a guided exploration of La Alcazaba, one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved Moorish fortresses, followed by lunch and drinks at a beloved local eatery in the heart of the old town. Later in the week, you will have the chance to embark on a trip along the dramatic Cabo de Gata coastline, where rugged cliffs meet turquoise water and the route wraps up with lunch in the charming seaside village of San José. Nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata Natural Park, your retreat venue is a peaceful oasis surrounded by the region's dramatic natural beauty. With its rustic charm, gardens brimming with native plants, and panoramic views of the rugged terrain, the estate offers endless sources of inspiration. Whether exploring its tranquil pathways or relaxing in the welcoming common areas, you’ll find the perfect setting to immerse yourself in your writing and connect with your surroundings. ### Day 1: Arrival Arrive at Almería Airport (LEI) and catch your 3:30 PM transfer to the retreat venue, a short 30-minute journey. Settle into your comfortable room, take some time to relax, and get ready to meet Esmé Weijun Wang and your fellow writers. Join an orientation tour to explore the charming workshop spaces, peaceful gardens, inviting terraces, and the refreshing pool. Over a delightful welcome dinner, enjoy a relaxed conversation about the week that’s ahead, creating a supportive and focused atmosphere for the retreat. ### Day 2: Classes at the venue Start your day with a filling breakfast, fueling up for a productive and creative morning. Over coffee, connect with Esmé and your fellow writers as you go over the day's plan and settle into the rhythm of the retreat. The morning session begins with some introductions and icebreakers, inviting everyone to share why they are here and what they hope to get out of the retreat. Then, dive into “Your Best Nonfiction Topic," which will guide you through brainstorming and combing through your mind for ideas. Esmé will create a space for open conversation and reflection so that by the end of the session, you will have a clear sense of the story you want to tell. After a satisfying lunch, settle in for an afternoon of free writing time. Using the best nonfiction topic you identified in the morning, sketch out your ideas and experiment with different angles as the material begins to take shape on the page. Esmé will be available for one-on-one office hours throughout the day, so you can ask any questions you may have or receive individual feedback on your work. As the evening settles in, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef, paired with a glass of aromatic, local wine. Connect with your fellow writers and talk about the progress and discoveries made throughout the day. ### Day 3: Trip to Almería & drinks at a special establishment Start the day with a nourishing breakfast and a short chat with Esmé and the group. Then, jump into your first adventure of the retreat: a trip to the historic city of Almería, where stone walls hold centuries of stories and sea air weaves through the town’s rhythm. As you explore Almería, take in the details that make this place unique: the vibrant cobbled streets, the bustling cafés in the city center, and the renowned landmark of the city, La Alcazaba de Almería. This Moorish fortress is one of the best-preserved citadels of the last Muslim kingdom in Europe, Al-Andalus. Built in the 10th century, the fortified complex houses gorgeous gardens, imposing towers, and intricate gates, showcasing impressive Moorish architecture. From its stone walls, you can enjoy sweeping views of Almería and its port. Take a moment to jot down your ideas or take notes on the history the local guide shares with you or on the visual elements of the surroundings. Record the details that have piqued your interest, letting the setting speak for itself. Pause for lunch and drinks at a local Andalusian spot named after the Sacromonte region of Granada, long associated with flamenco, caves, and creative tradition. Though far from those hills, this tavern is known for its Andalusian cuisine and enduring charm, serving as a favorite gathering place for artists, writers, and locals. In the afternoon, as you return to the venue, prepare for another afternoon class: "Using Index Cards to Write Your Story." Esmé will introduce a hands-on method for organizing your ideas by playing around with index cards, shuffling and rearranging them until the shape of your essay starts to emerge. By the end of the session, you will have some material to carry into your writing for the rest of the week. The rest of the late afternoon is yours to enjoy however you’d like. Do some individual writing, take a swim in the pool, or simply relax in your comfortable room. Join Esmé and the group for a delightful chef-prepared dinner and a glass of local Spanish wine, sharing stories from the day. ### Day 4: Classes at the venue Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast, easing into the rhythm of the day. Over coffee, chat with Esmé and your fellow writers as you review the schedule and prepare to dive into today’s workshops. Kick off the morning session with “Journal Keeping For Memoirists,” where Esmé will show you how to keep a journal so that you can track the information you need for your memoir and essays, sharing techniques you can use in your journaling practice long after the retreat is over. The class will then shift to “Structure and Perspective,” where Esmé will teach you different styles and forms of structure, helping you decide which approach works best for what you are writing. After lunch, dive into “Accessing and Writing Emotions,” with exercises designed to help you get honest material onto the page. The afternoon will continue with “Ethics in Personal Nonfiction,” an open conversation with your fellow writers about the ethics of writing about people in your life, including how and when to ask for consent. Esmé will be available for one-on-one office hours throughout the day. As the evening unfolds, enjoy some leisure time before dinner. Take this opportunity to rest or have some individual writing time and exchange ideas with the other writers. End the day with a satisfying three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with fragrant wine. ### Day 5: Trip to Cabo de Gata Natural Park (optional) Ease into the day with a hearty breakfast, setting the stage for what’s ahead. Over coffee, go over the plans of the day together with Esmé and your fellow writers. Then, head out to explore the striking wilds of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. The trip is entirely optional. If you prefer, you can opt to remain at the venue and enjoy some undisturbed individual writing time. The natural park is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, volcanic calderas, dramatic cliffs, and mysterious rock formations. Categorized as a UNESCO Geopark and Biosphere Reserve, the park owes its colorful landscapes to its volcanic origin. As you walk through sandy paths bordered by stone and clusters of coastal blooms, pay attention to the small, defining details of your surroundings, allowing new ideas to take shape. The day’s route includes a visit to San José, a small whitewashed town nestled by the sea, and its vivid coastline framed by turquoise waters and wild vegetation. Pause midday for a relaxed lunch in San José, at a local Andalusian spot, and reflect on the morning’s impressions. Afterwards, head back to the venue for another afternoon class: “Taking Care of Yourself While Writing Personal Nonfiction.” Esmé will share different methods for taking care of yourself during this intensive emotional process, with practical strategies you can carry into your writing life at home. Writing about personal topics can be demanding, and you will walk away from this class with real tools for sustaining your practice without burning out. The remainder of the afternoon will be dedicated to free writing time, giving you space to continue working on your personal essay draft. Esmé will be available for one-on-one office hours throughout the day, so you can ask any questions you may have or receive individual feedback on your work. As the day comes to an end, take some time to unwind and reset before dinner. Savor a chef-made dinner accompanied by a glass of Spanish wine, soaking in the flavorful food and lovely company of the evening. ### Day 6: Classes at the venue Begin the morning with a delicious breakfast, then head into the morning class, “Introduction to Publication.” Esmé will walk you through how to find the publications you want to publish in, breaking down the process for publishing both short personal essays and full-length books. You will leave with a clearer picture of where your work fits in the current publishing landscape and a practical sense of what editors are looking for when a pitch lands in their inbox. After a leisurely lunch, the afternoon turns to “Introduction to Book Proposal.” Esmé will break down what a book proposal is and what goes into one, with time built in to start making notes on your own. Whether a book is on your horizon or just a distant possibility, you will walk away with a framework to return to when you are ready. Office hours will be available throughout the day for one-on-one feedback. As the late afternoon unfolds, take some time to rest and recharge. The evening wraps up with a flavorful three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of fragrant wine, bringing everyone together to reflect on the day and the progress made. ### Day 7: Classes at the venue Kick off the morning with a satisfying breakfast, then settle in for a morning of free writing time. Use these last hours to refine your personal essay draft, revisit earlier exercises, experiment with new directions, or push forward on material that has been developing throughout the week. Esmé will hold a Q&A during the morning to address any remaining questions about your writing, your publishing goals, or the craft of personal nonfiction. Office hours will also be available throughout the day for final one-on-one feedback. After a relaxed lunch, gather with Esmé and your fellow writers for a closing circle and celebration. Each person will have the opportunity to read a short paragraph of what they wrote during the retreat, if they feel comfortable sharing. Take a moment to reflect on the stories you have started to tell and the connections you have made along the way. As the late afternoon settles in, take a walk, sit with your thoughts, or discuss with fellow writers. The retreat wraps up with a delicious three-course farewell dinner, a time to celebrate the connections made, the stories written, and the inspiration that will carry forward beyond the week. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy a light breakfast, bid farewell to Esmé and your fellow writers, and board the 10:00 AM transfer to Almería Airport (LEI). You'll reach your destination at around 10:30 AM. ## Instructors - [Esmé Weijun Wang](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/esmé-weijun-wang) — Author, Essayist, and Educator ## Accommodation ### Spanish countryside estate Your venue for the retreat with author Esmé Weijun Wang is an astonishing countryside estate, located in the south of Spain, in a unique nature reserve named Cabo de Gata Natural Park. This elegantly restored property, a harmonious blend of traditional elements and modern comfort, sits amidst an otherworldly landscape. The natural beauty of the Andalusian panoramas is the estate's most breathtaking feature, with vistas that stretch out from the spacious terraces. You'll be treated to a visual symphony of fiery sunsets descending over rugged cliffs and the untamed wilderness of valleys. The accommodation itself is a seamless fusion of regional charm and modern elegance, with rooms that blend Andalusian artistry and Balinese tranquility. All the rooms at this venue are designed for single occupancy, each outfitted with orthopedic mattresses, soft cotton linens, 100% cotton American Curl towels, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The single rooms themselves are located in clusters of casitas (small typical Spanish houses), and all feature ensuite bathrooms. Other amenities of the venue include the swimming pool, vast gardens, airy terraces, and well-appointed common spaces. Your classes with Esmé will take place across three dedicated workshop spaces: one spacious 4000 sq. ft. (375 sq. m.) charming tent reconverted into a studio, one intimate 430 sq. ft. (40 sq. m.) indoor workshop space adjacent to the main studio, and another small circular studio indoors. In your spare time, you can relax by the outdoor pool or enjoy leisurely strolls through the estate’s gardens while socializing with your fellow creatives. Please note that a short 3- to 5-minute walk connects the accommodation areas, the studios, and the main building for meals. The terrain across the property is gently hilly, which may present challenges for those with low and limited mobility. Furthermore, since the venue is located in the middle of a natural park, you may encounter some insects during your stay. The Finca embraces a design philosophy that harmonizes with its surroundings, and as such, the rooms are not equipped with window screens in order to preserve unobstructed, panoramic views of the landscape. It is recommended to keep doors and windows closed throughout the day and night to avoid insects entering your room. Rest assured, there are no dangerous insects in the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve. ### Hilltop single standard ensuite room Four standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated along the peaceful edge of the estate grounds, each room includes a private bathroom and essential amenities, such as a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, toiletries, a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, a smart TV, and an outdoor terrace. The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi. Unwind after a day filled with creativity and connection by stepping out onto your charming private terrace. Take a moment to relax and reflect while enjoying the stunning scenery of Gabo de Gata Natural Park. ### Single standard ensuite room Three standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated closer to the main venue spaces (such as the studios, dining areas, and common lounges), each room features a private bathroom and necessary amenities. The rooms are equipped with toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor terrace. Enjoy the tranquil scenery outside your quaint private terrace, or take a moment to rest on the comfortable double bed, outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and smooth cotton linens. ### Single superior ensuite room - open terrace Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated near the parking and outside reception, each room features access to a quaint open terrace, perfect for soaking in the tranquil nature of Cabo de Gata Natural Park. The rooms include necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom, a smart TV, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, Wi-Fi, and a double bed outfitted with smooth cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress. The bathroom is equipped with toiletries, bath and hand towels, and a hairdryer. Recharge between workshops and other activities in a space of comfort and peace, with a stunning private terrace in the front. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and take some time to reflect and relax. ### Single superior ensuite room - enclosed terrace Four superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in close proximity to the studios, each room features access to a secluded, enclosed terrace. The rooms are equipped with essential amenities, such as a private bathroom, A/C, heating controlled via a thermostat, Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water. The bathroom comes with a hairdryer, bath and hand towels, and toiletries. Enjoy the privacy of your charming private terrace, situated in the rear, thus creating a peaceful space to relax and reflect. Unwind in-between sessions on the comfortable bed in your room, complete with an orthopedic mattress and delicate cotton linens. ### Single standard suite - open terrace Two standard suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Situated in the heart of the estate, each room features a private bathroom and essential amenities, including a kitchenette (complete with a microwave, sink, and kitchen counter equipped with drawers, mugs, cutlery, and small plates), toiletries, a hairdryer, hand and bath towels, a smart TV, a mini-fridge stocked with invigorating water, and an idyllic open terrace. The comfortable double bed is outfitted with an orthopedic mattress and soft cotton linens. All rooms also feature air conditioning, heating controlled via a thermostat, and Wi-Fi. Relax in a comfortable and independent space after a full day of creativity and connection. Step outside onto the inviting private terrace, located in the rear, and take a moment to reflect in a peaceful spot or enjoy the gentle breeze and surrounding landscape. ### Single superior suite - enclosed terrace Two superior suite rooms are available for single occupancy. Located in the center of the estate grounds, each suite features a stunning enclosed terrace and necessary amenities, such as a private bathroom (providing toiletries, hand and bath towels, and a hairdryer), a mini-fridge stocked with refreshing water, heating controlled via thermostat, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a double bed complete with delicate cotton linens and an orthopedic mattress. All rooms also include a kitchenette fully equipped with a microwave, sink, kitchen counter, mugs, cutlery, and small plates. Unwind after your creative sessions in a calm and inviting environment that blends comfort with independence. Step outside onto the private, secluded terrace, situated at the rear, breathe in the fresh air, and take some time to reflect, or soak in the serene views of the estate and its natural surroundings. ## Food Embark on a Mediterranean culinary journey during Esmé Weijun Wang’s writing retreat, right in the heart of Andalusia. Each meal, prepared by a private chef, highlights the rich flavors of the region. Discover the flavor of Iberian meats, delicious seafood, and seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from local orchards and gardens. Traditional Mediterranean spices bring depth and warmth to every dish, reflecting the vibrant, healthy flavors that make this cuisine so celebrated. Iberian tradition is defined by a dance of spices: saffron's exotic fragrance, parsley's fresh, green zing, and paprika's smoky warmth. Breakfasts are served buffet-style and include a variety of sweet and savory items. Light lunches consist of a starter (such as seasonal soup) alongside a main course, and dinners include a starter, a hearty main course, and a dessert. Your retreat includes all meals, and refreshing beverages like water, coffee, and tea are readily available throughout the day. During your trips, lunches are served at some of the best local restaurants in the area, which are renowned for their warm hospitality, delicious local dishes, and pleasant atmosphere. Indulge in exquisitely cooked meals that showcase Spanish regional cuisine, accompanied by fragrant wines. The exact menu served varies based on the availability of regional ingredients. ## Getting There The venue for your retreat with author Esmé Weijun Wang is a sprawling countryside estate, nestled in the heart of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, in the South of Spain. Just a 30-minute trip brings you to the area’s most iconic beaches, such as Genoveses and Mónsul, both known for their golden sands, turquoise waters, and cinematic history. The park is renowned for its unique volcanic landscape, famous for its appearances in movies and TV series such as “Black Mirror”, "Game of Thrones" and "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”. The uniqueness of the nature reserve also comes from the region’s rich history shaped by numerous cultures, including the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Moors. The Cabo de Gata Natural Park stretches over 38,000 hectares and is celebrated as one of Spain’s most pristine coastal reserves. Its rugged cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, framing stretches of unspoiled beaches, wild coves, and charming fishing villages where time seems to have slowed. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, nurtures an abundance of desert-adapted plants, including wild palms, agave, aloe, and hemp. In the spring, wildflowers bloom all over the land, adding color to the dry ground. The park is also a haven for wildlife. While kestrels and owls patrol the skies, turtles and lizards bask on warm rocks. In the summer, you can spot flocks of flamingos wading in the salt flats of Las Salinas, where migratory birds find refuge. This diversity of flora and fauna, paired with the park’s striking geology, creates an atmosphere that feels both raw and magical. **Please arrive at *Almería Airport* (LEI).** We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. **How to get from *Almería Airpor****t* **to the retreat venue:** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from *Almería Airport* (LEI) are included. If you cannot find good connecting flights from your departure airport to *Almería*, we recommend you fly to Madrid or Barcelona and fly domestically to *Almería* (local round trips starting from US$89, subject to change, approximately 1h journey time). The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on May 31, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast on June 7, 2027, by 10:00 AM. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Arrival transfer:** **May 31, 2027 — 3:30 PM** (leaving from *Almería Airport*, arriving at the retreat venue a little after 4:00 PM) **Departure transfer:** **June 7, 2027 — 10:00 AM** (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at *Almería Airport* a little after 10:30 AM) **If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:** - Spend extra days in *Almería* before and/or after the retreat and catch the pre-arranged shuttles from/to *Almería Airport*. - Grab a taxi to the retreat venue (address: La Boca de Los Frailes, 04118 Níjar, Almería, Spain, 80 euros - approximately US$93 per way; please note that taxi fares may vary). ## Reviews **Reviews from past UpTrek retreats at this venue:** - "It was wonderful! I loved the venue and location. It was beautiful and peaceful. Staff were friendly and helpful. The weather was wonderful. Not too hot and there was usually a cool breeze." - "Wonderful resort, excellent staff, great place to do art!!!! Met 15 new friends and a lovely cat. Food very good!" - "The venue was perfect, the accommodations very comfortable, the food delicious, and the staff friendly and helpful. Overall, the experience was perfect in every way." - "The retreat was fantastic. The venue was perfect. The meals were excellent and I appreciated the care that went into making sure that I was able to have really good vegan meals. The side trips were well arranged and Emilio, the tour guide, was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements." - "It was great to have flexibility in the schedule from the venue. The staff were very attentive and responded to all requests. The venue and surrounding areas provided inspiration for creativity. Visiting San Jose was really enjoyable especially the lunch and having the opportunity to go in the sea and do some local shopping." - "Beautiful spot, wonderful staff, good food, good space for working on our art. I loved my room with its patio overlooking the valley and the sunrises in the morning. Our guide, Emilio, was very knowledgeable and funny with a lot of energy." - "The venue is very well-chosen. The staff all very helpful and friendly. I loved everything. Thank you so much everyone, also UpTrek for informing us friendly and constantly." - "The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions really added to the experience." - "My room was beautiful. The pool was fabulous. The food was amazing. Thank you Manuel, Juan, Jorge, and the rest of the team. You made it such a special time for me and the perfect way to celebrate my birthday." - "This was not my first UpTrek workshop, and the one in Almería, Spain, proved to be just as exceptional as the previous ones. The overall program was, once again, nothing short of fantastic. Thank you, UpTrek, for consistently delivering wonderful experiences." - "I cannot say enough good things! The staff at the venue were AMAZING-thoughtful and caring. The tour guide, Emilio was so knowledgeable and kind. Our Uptrek advisor, Andra, was on top of things and also so kind. Honestly, it was one of the best trips I've ever taken." ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is this retreat available to all levels?** This retreat welcomes all levels of experience, though you’ll benefit most if you already have some prior writing experience, as well as familiarity with Esmé Weijun Wang's work and style of teaching. **When is the retreat available?** The retreat with author Esmé Weijun Wang in Almería, Spain, takes place between May 31 - June 7, 2027 **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive at the retreat venue after 4:00 PM on May 31, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM on the last day of the retreat, on June 7, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Is Wi-Fi available?** Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?** Yes. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot. **How do I get to the retreat venue?** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Almería Airport (LEI) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 30 minutes. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Spain a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. For more information, see the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/write-your-own-personal-essay-retreat-author-esme-weijun-wang-spain#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed. **What’s the weather like in Almería, Spain, in early June?** The weather in Almería, Spain, in early June is generally sunny and pleasant. You can expect average highs of 27°C / 81°F during the day that drop to around 17°C / 63°F at night. The Almería region enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year. **What should I pack?** Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **What supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of materials recommended by author Esmé Weijun Wang will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Wooden laptop and writing stands for bed, lamps in each room, tables and chairs, a projector, TV, screen, printer–scanner, power outlets and extension cords, high-speed wireless Internet throughout the estate, a Bluetooth speaker, and foldable outdoor chairs are included and will be available at the venue. **How many people are to be expected on the retreat?** There is a maximum number of 18 participants. **Do I need a visa?** Guests traveling from the US, Canada, UK, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Spain for tourist purposes without a visa or travel authorization. Please contact us for further guidance. **Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?** Please take out euros cash from an ATM at the airport, in Almería, or in Níjar (the closest town to the retreat venue). You will need cash for small purchases in town and for tipping the staff (tipping is customary). The retreat venue doesn't have a card machine but accepts euros cash. **Can a non-participating guest join me?** We do not accommodate non-participants at our retreats. This policy is in place to ensure the creative and immersive nature of our retreats remains intact for all participants. **Are there any age restrictions?** No restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. **Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited to host people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven terrain across the nature reserve. You will also need to walk between the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the main building where meals are served. **What language is used during the workshops and other activities?** The retreat is available in English. **What happens if I need to cancel?** Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy) **Do I need travel insurance?** Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation. For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip. We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. **Do I have to pay a deposit?** No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. **Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?** UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. **Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructor or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation. ## Book This Retreat 👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/write-your-own-personal-essay-retreat-author-esme-weijun-wang-spain#book)** — no deposit required. See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/write-your-own-personal-essay-retreat-author-esme-weijun-wang-spain **Last updated:** 2026-05-29