retreats by seema rose
Are you a creator, a foodie, an entrepreneur, a dreamer who is looking at taking a break in an inspiring destination to unwind and refresh, and to connect with amazing
new people? You've come to the right place!
My retreats are invigorating getaways for photographers who want to revive their passion for creativity, take a breather before the next big project, step into a loving community and to feel the joy of living in a bucket-list location in the company of like-minded souls.
These retreats were born from a deep purpose - to support and inspire creatives in the photography industry. After seeking a deeper meaning in my food photography journey, I felt a true calling to offer others a safe, welcoming space - a place for genuine collaborations and friendships to navigate the challenges of a
creative career together.
Unlike most retreats for creatives, which are focused on teaching specific skills of their craft, the purpose of my retreats is not the same - it is not so much about learning hard skills, but more about becoming a part of an encouraging, nurturing community, reconnecting with yourself and finding your creative voice again.
I have hosted 3 retreats so far - 2 in Florence along with a friend of mine and a 3rd one, my first solo retreat, in beautiful Cotswolds, UK in May this year. I was accompanied by amazing groups of creative minds and brilliant photographers, who I am fortunate to call my friends now. We had an absolutely fabulous time, with heart-to-heart conversations, great food and wine, loads of laughter, and a totally relaxed and revitalising stay.
Check out the stunning images!
And now, I am super excited about my next retreat in Bali! It is going to be amazing and I hope you can join me! I am grateful that you stopped by. Take care:).
Bali, Indonesia
May 18-23, 2025
Have you seen the movie “Eat, Pray, Love” and did you ever want to create and live your own Julia Roberts journey? I am so drawn to Bali & although I have been there once, it’s my desire to create some different memories with my photography tribe in this spiritual place. Join me on this journey at my retreat in Bali. Block your calendar -
May 18 - 23, 2025. It is going to be epic!
About bali
Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is an island paradise that has much to offer its visitors. Lush rice fields, ancient temples, magical sunsets, traditional villages, idyllic beaches and some of the island's most remarkable attractions. It’s a beautiful blend of a colourful culture, friendly people, stunning nature, countless activities, tropical weather, culinary delights, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful accommodation. Bali is rated regularly as one of the best travel destinations in the world – for very good reasons. There is something great for everyone to explore and discover.
Our home in bali
Villa Mannao is a resort-style complex composed of eight pavilions. It epitomises traditional Balinese architecture as prominently displayed by the alang-alang thatch as well as by the Joglo style roofs. The spacious interiors are appointed with mostly weathered wood furnishings, while exteriors are adorned by huge tribal pieces and wood carvings – all giving the villa a laid-back and exotic ambience. Designed for the comfort of big groups, the villa provides all amenities for guests to relax and enjoy a luxurious stay in a homely, rural setting. Villa Mannao is located in Kerobokan, a 10-minute drive from Seminyak – where all the action is in Bali. It is also conveniently located just 11km from Ngurah Rai (Bali) International Airport.
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DETAILS OF THE RETREAT
Where: Bali, Indonesis
Location: Villa Mannao, Kerobokan
Dates: Sunday May 18 - Friday May 23, 2025
Tentative Itinerary:
Day 1 - Sunday, May 18th
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Guests arrive by 4pm
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Guests freshen up
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5pm - We meet for welcome drinks, light bites, introductions
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8pm - Dinner prepared by our private chef. Indulge in delicious Indonesian cuisine, cooked fresh with local produce
Day 2 - Monday, May 19th
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7 - 8am - Relax with a rejuvenating yoga class
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8.30 - 9.30am - Breakfast
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11am - Pick-up for cooking class
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11.45am - 2.30pm - Balinese cooking class + lunch
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Shopping at leisure
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Back by late afternoon. Time to relax
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8pm - Dinner at our villa
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We could go for a night stroll if everyone is up for it:)
DAY 3 - Tuesday, May 20th
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8 - 9.30am - Breakfast
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10 - 11.30am Group photo
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Some free time perhaps for a swim before lunch
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1.30pm - Lunch by our private chef
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4 - 5pm - A session on Reviving Your Creative Flow by my special guest - a food photographer, podcaster, mindset coach & tutor extraordinaire - Dyutima Jha
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Leisure time to bond, rest or take a swim
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8pm - Dinner cooked by our private chef
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After dinner, it's time to let your hair down at a nightclub:)
DAY 4 - Wednesday, May 21st
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8 - 9.30am - Breakfast
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10am - Pick-up for our day trip to Ubud. Lunch in Ubud. Back by 5pm
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5.30 - 7.30pm - Massage of your choice to relax from the day's activity. You could also chill in the pool:)
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8pm - Dinner by our private chef
DAY 5 - Thursday, May 22nd
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8 - 9.30am - Breakfast
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10am - Pick-up for our day trip to Uluwatu. Lunch in Uluwatu. Back by 5pm
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Chill time at the villa - music, stories, laughter
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8pm - Be prepared for a “special” cultural extravaganza at the villa
DAY 6 - Friday, May 23rd
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8-9.30 - Breakfast
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Goodbyes
INVESTMENT:
There are 6 rooms for the guests, each with one king bed and an ensuite bathroom.
Cost for sharing a room with one person is USD2,650 each.
If you would prefer a room to yourself, the cost is USD3,000.
Early bird: For bookings made until 31st January 2025, you have the flexibility to pay in 3 easy monthly installments of either USD884 if taking a shared room, or USD1,000 for a room to yourself. Last installment must by end March 2025.
The cost includes:
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Accommodation for the duration of the retreat
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All meals, sightseeing, tours & transportation for sightseeing
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Yoga class, cooking class & one massage
It does not include:
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Flight costs, taxes, baggage fees, cost of visas & travel insurance
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Transportation to the villa on arrival and departure. I can assist you with the arrangements though. The villa is just a 35-40 min taxi ride from Depansar Airport. You can car pool with the other participants too.
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Expenses related to shopping
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Meals/items/activities bought individually by you
HOW CAN YOU BOOK A SPOT: Just DM or email me - you will need to make a bank transfer
What should you bring with you:
Bali is a travel photography delight! The scenic beauty is unparalleled. This is a great opportunity to add travel photography to your portfolio. Besides, you can also shoot our beautifully laid out meal tables. So, if you are a passionate photographer, please do bring your camera. I assure you, there will be lots of photo ops.
memories from
cotswolds & florence creative retreats
TESTIMONIALS
Johanna Karlsson (@throughherkitchenwindow)
Attending this retreat was so special in so many ways. The people, the atmosphere, the long talks, the food, the friendship, Florence, Valdirose and of course the hosts. I was going there with no expectations other then getting to know people and maybe take some photos. I went home with so many beautiful memories, friendships for life and new inspiration and courage. Seema and Alessandra are also the best hosts. Everything was so well planned both for activities and food. You just had to tag along and enjoy the company of the others. They are both very warm and loving persons and they just made you feel comfortable at once.I can highly recommend going to one of their retreats. I will definitely go again in future. Don’t hesitate, don’t be afraid of not knowing anyone there. Just go and it will be amazing.
Haniyeh Nikoo (@haniyeh.nikoo)
I had the pleasure to be among the creatives who joined the first retreat planned by dear Seema and Alexandra. They went above and beyond to make the retreat extra special and magical. From the choice of location, to the food and activities were all well thought and amazing. They even surprised me with a beautiful cake and made my birthday that happened to be during the retreat, a memorable one. I am forever grateful for such a beautiful, bonding and special gathering they planned!
The creative retreat at Valdirose, hosted by Seema and Alessandra not only met, but exceeded my expectations at every turn. Their attention to detail was flawless. Nothing was left to chance. As a creative with an event planning background, I appreciate the care they took to make sure all my needs were met, from accommodating my vegan diet, to helping me find ice for my nagging achilles. I was able to let my cares flow down the River Arno and simply bask in the warm company, excellent food, and super fun outings. I highly reccomend this retreat and give them 2 huge thumbs up!
Carol Clayton (@carolsvegankitchen)
Lucia Marecak (@foodlight.io)
I joined Seema's retreat in October 2022. It was my first retreat as participant. I decided to join as I was looking for something to help me re-energize, find my (somehow) lost passion for photography, and inspire me to move forward in my business. The retreat was fantastic, and it helped me so much. Not only did I get my energy and inspiration back, but I also got to meet like-minded creatives, and we became friends. After the retreat, I also started photographing more often and I've established a few collaborations with participants from the workshop. Seema is a wonderful host, and I hope to join her retreat again in the future.
Belinda Hausner (@belindathebaker)
Loved the experience! It’s just the way you are. How you act, how you understand everybody and how you let everybody be as he/she is. I made new friends and I came back with a lot of positive energy and thoughts. A face-to-face meeting with fellow creatives is amazing! Haven’t had that good feeling in meetings before. I could be as I am.
I can't believe we met only two years ago. You are one of the most encouraging people for everyone else, cheering others on and always wante=ing to help guide them. I don't know what I will do with my photography passion yet, but I want you to know that you have helped me, both directly and indirectly. Even from afar I feel you energising me and making me feel like I can do anything. And you know what? You have proved to all of us that we can do anything because you can do everything. You have an idea and you just make it happen. You're awesome! I am so happy to know you and I hope we know each other for many years to come. Love you!
Andi (@andislaby_photo)
Suze (@gourmetglow)
Emotions are peculiar things, uncontrollable and unforeseen, they envelop you when you least expect it. From the minute I set foot on Valdirose soil, I was swathed in the most genuine hug by both Seema & Ale. They are such beautiful souls that emit such warmth and love, it’s so hard to cry tears of joy. From start to finish, not only was the retreat so meticulously planned it ran like clockwork, the attention to detail was phenomenal. Individual gift bags, handtied and named, set a precedent for how we all would be treated throughout, not so much like royalty, that’s too aloof, but like close knit family. The food, the fun and the laughter will be my takeaway memories, compounded by the love and bond between us all. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for the newfound soul mates I have in my life, all from different backgrounds but all bound by the emotions we felt at this retreat. Everything was of the highest quality from the food to the accommodation to the attention to detail. If you are looking to boost your self-esteem whilst being submerged in a cacophony of inspiration, friendship, and joy than these retreats will sate your soul. I am already saving for the next one! I can’t thank you enough my dear friends.
I had the absolute pleasure of joining the food photography retreat in May, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcome and was treated like a queen. The host was so natural in creating a sense of connection with all of us which made the retreat feel like a meeting with long-lost friends. The retreat took place in a stunning old Tuscan villa which was perfect for relaxation and inspiration. What truly made this retreat special was the amount of attention the hosts put into making us feel special. We didn't have to worry about a thing during the retreat, and those tiny surprises we didn't expect were just the cherry on top of the cake. I left the retreat with lifelong friends and memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. If you are passionate about spending a relaxing creative time in a place that screams history and indulgence, then I wholeheartedly recommend this retreat. Trust me, the friendly atmosphere in an incredible place like Tuscany will not disappoint you.
Anja Burgar (@useyournoodles)
It’s not everyday that we have a chance to be a part of an experience that touches our heart in the most inexplicable way bringing us joy, making us feel like a united tribe, inspiring us to be limitless and connecting us back to our passion like never before. The Florence retreat at Valdirose was that magical experience for me. The venue was so tastefully selected that from the moment I stepped in, I was lost in its charm. The food was so beautifully curated that it gave me a taste of true Italy. The activities were so thoughtfully organised that they sparked laughter but also deep conversations. Those 4 days at the retreat were epic, dreamy, memorable, life changing, blissful, fun, soul fulfilling & downright mind blowing. I went in with some expectations but Seema & Ale blew me away with their attention to detail and thoughtfulness. Everything was so well orchestrated that it created a synergy like never before. Even though I’d not met many of the others, the retreat felt like an old friends reunion. This retreat has a special place in my heart and shall remain there for years to come.
Dyutima Jha (@dyutima_myfoodlens)
Micheile Henderson (@micheile_oliviestrauss)
The retreat was a beautiful experience. Seema and Alessandra were so welcoming, as were the other attendees. Everything detail was so well organised. How refreshing it was to be among like-minded creatives. I’m not usually one for in-person events, but attending the retreat was one of the best decisions I’ve made. There were amazing excursions, the location was breathtaking and yet the memories I cherish the most are the moments at the table listening and sharing experiences with the group. I felt, and still feel a special connection to the group. I’ve got my calendar already marked for the next retreat.
The way you touch people's hearts & make peoplefeel included is something I will keep learning from for forever. You have the gift to lead with a pure heart & make people feel seen. Please never stop doing what you do & keep upir dreams high in the clouds.I aspire to be such a powerful woman as you are & you are a role model.
Lea (@brandedwithlea)
I don't know where to start. Maybe from the day we met in Parma? Iy's not easy for me to feel at ease with someone. But I immediately felt at ease with you. Which made me understand you are so special. I also don't always feel at ease with a group but I felt so connected with these beautiful souls this week. You are so unique. Take advantage of this gift. Keep doing what you are doing. Please:). I love you!
Roberta (@roberta.dallalba)
what is a retreat?
A retreat is a travel, learning, and rejuvenating experience, hosted in a peaceful and inspiring location. It's the coming together of a small group of creatives to escape from their normal routines, exchange ideas with like-minded people, create soul-satisfying memories together and refresh and recharge themselves in the process. It is not a workshop, in that, there won’t be any formal teaching or learning. We can learn about each other and our journeys via candid conversations.
why do you need a retreat?
We have experienced big changes in our lives post Covid. We have been readjusting our personal and professional dynamics like we have never done before. We have learnt to see value in the simple things; things that make our hearts sing. Self-care is one of them. We all need to be kind to ourselves and nurture our spirit - in whichever field it may be. Now, people are looking for more meaningful connections. A retreat provides a perfect setting to achieve this. A beautiful and inspiring location, great food and drinks, an opportunity to taste the real flavour of a new city, to meet some amazing new people, to re-energise your spirit and find your creative flow.
would you join me on this creative journey?
I would love for you to join me. If you are interested in coming along to Bali, please fill out the form below to sign up. I will follow it up with an email for the payment details. Spaces are limited, so don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience a unique getaway with fellow photographers. I look forward to creating beautiful memories with you!
