As a solo traveller on this event, I almost didn't book. I'm normally extremely anxious of the unknown and I'm so pleased my husband encouraged me to give it a shot. From the point of booking to leaving for home, the trip was thoroughly thought out and perfectly executed. The group chats on WhatsApp initially helped the group gel before hand and made introductions extremely easy when meeting in person. At my arrival at the hotel, I felt I'd known these people for years. The Sarah and the event helpers Linda, Heather and Si were fantastic at making anyone feel welcome and included, so even if you're a little introvert like me, they quickly made you feel at ease and pull you out of your shell. As for the actual retreat, my goodness is was so well run by staff at Kariega and Sarah and the team. Nothing was too much trouble. I always say when reading reviews it's great when everything goes to plan, but I like to read how people manage in a crisis or if things don't go to plan. We had a couple of incidents happen that were completely out of the organisers control, from unprecedented rainfall to pesky ticks which altered the itinerary, but they were resolved before we even knew about them and it didn't impact the trip in the slightest. It has been a life changing event for me, and I feel like I've found myself again. I even found myself sobbing on our last game drive because I was going to miss everything so much. I can't praise the event and how it was run, I've come away with new skills and some fabulous artwork I'm proud to call mine. Thanks to all involved, I can't wait to join you all again at some point ❤️

The accommodation was incredible. Food in any time. So kind people trying to help even in the impredictible things!. The safari was great with 3 drivers that came with us to see all the animals with de best light to do the best shoot. The art part was incredible with the lines that Sarah was saying but with personal corrections that were pure gold. The group was full of good people. I can,t say a bad word only a big....THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!!

My Art Retreat with Plum and Olive was beyond my expectations. Sara Stokes is a gifted teacher. I learned so much and her ability to help each of us who have different levels of watercolor painting abilities was truly her gift. I was amazed at how much progress I had made in just a short week. The environment was supportive and very enjoyable. The Masseria Specula was a beautiful ancient Farm with all modern comforts. The rooms were great but the highlight was the amazing food under an outdoor pergola surrounded by olive trees and so much history. It was magical. We were treated to amazing meals cooked by local women sharing their family recipes. Every lunch and dinner outstanding - authentic and healthy. Sara invited two guest artists, Andrew and Janice. It was incredible to have two additional talented teachers! They were very proficient in watercolor and excellent teachers. We visited nearby towns, such as Oria and Lecce. We had incredible meals in the towns we visited as well as well as a wonderful tours of the historic towns. My favorite part of the trip was the incredible friendships that I made. I met people who share a love of art, good food, and friendship. It could not have been better. I’m looking forward to another trip with Sarah Stokes, and Plum and Olive.

I had a great time. Service people were professional, friendly and eager to help. Delicious food and comfortable accommodation. Would have prefer to have more time for painting... (the reason I was there :-)). Thank you for this great experience!

We had such a wonderful time on our retreat. The art sessions were inspiring, confidence building, informative, the teachers were great, I learnt so much and the group was supportive and friendly. The visits to local towns and restaurants were well planned, guides well informed and the whole experience was really enjoyable. We felt so comfortable and welcome at the masseria, the staff team were amazing as was the food. The accommodation was authentic and perfect, very well done and in keeping with the history of the buildings. We were very well looked after and I would highly recommend this retreat to others.