Items to Bring on France 2024 Retreat

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 This list is for things that you may want or need when you are in France and not necessarily for your trip to get here. We suggest watching YouTube or reading travel blogs to see what might make you more comfortable on a long flight. Everyone's situation is different for long haul flights.  

This is a casual retreat.  The only time you might want to dress up a little is for the closing banquet. The weather in southwest France in late April & early May can be a bit unpredictable. The average temperature is around 70 degrees during the day and around 50 degrees at night. It can be much warmer (80s) or cooler (40s). You will need to dress in layers as we will start out with cool mornings and will get warmer in the afternoon when we are on excursions. Evenings can be chilly depending on where you are from, so please plan accordingly. Swimming in one of the two pools will not be likely, but possible with warm weather. Look at the forecast before you leave to plan what you will actually need to bring with you.  

Please bring what makes you most comfortable. The retreat does not require you to use any electronics. There will be down time, but it is scheduled for reflection and conversation, not on to be on your electronic device. Please see the section about wifi in the FAQ. You will likely want at least a cell phone to communicate back home if necessary. 

The materials for all retreat activities will be provided, including art supplies and other creative materials. If you would like to work on anything else while you are on this retreat, you are welcome to bring them along. Please be aware of the restrictions for bringing certain materials with you on an airplane. Check TSA.gov for more information. 

 No. Please bring everything that you will need with you. There are no personal items provided at the retreat center and you will not have easy access to stores. If you have questions about specific items, please feel free to reach out to us.  

Please bring all of your medication that you need during the trip including over the counter medications you commonly use. Medications are only available in France at a pharmacy (not grocery store). There is not a pharmacy that is easy to access without a car. A French pharmacy is also a different experience. Please watch YouTube videos or read blogs about them if you want to learn more. Also be sure to pack you medication to carry on the plane, preferably in your personal item that will fit under your seat.  It is more common on international flights to have to check your carry-on bag that would go in the overhead bin.  

YES! This retreat is designed to get you out of your routine and try new and interesting things. An adventitious attitude can make the process more pleasant. An open mind can open you up to opportunities that you never thought possible. The language is different, the culture is different, the food is different, and the experience is different too!