But just because I can't attend one of these events, that doesn't mean you can't! Then I can live vicariously through you.
Let's talk first about the difference between a Retreat and a Residency:
Retreats are a cross between a Residency and a Conference. Typically you're in a setting that is conducive to writing. Peaceful, gorgeous, quiet, the envy of every single one of your busy, overworked friends. Friends that will probably hate you when you post pictures of your surroundings.
*Looks pointedly over glasses at Twitter friends that do retreats*
Other than the perfect setting, you'll also typically interact with speakers who teach you more about your writing, be it promotion, marketing, plotting, character development etc. This is actually why I'm drawn to retreats, because it is time to focus on and develop certain parts of my writing with the guidance of a professional who most certainly knows more than I do on the subject. And getting to do it all surrounded by peace and quiet instead of with an angry toddler who's hit the biting phase? Yes, please!
Residencies on the other hand do not offer coaching sessions like the retreats. Residencies are usually 1 week to 3 months of seclusion in one of those gorgeous locations I talked about, to just write. I think I would go nuts after 1 month of seclusion, but time alone with my thoughts and my writing sounds like absolute bliss. Can you imagine being able to write day in and day out without distraction, surrounded by absolute beauty? Amazing.
In all honesty, I'd probably go nuts after 2 or 3 nights away from my grumpy little toddler and my husband. I've never been away from them for more than a day. They drive me nuts, but I love them to the moon and back. :)
So, while I'll probably never attend one of these (you totally should) here are some of my dream retreats and Residencies.