Testimonials
Since 2018, Side Door Travel have been planning and leading world-class destination workshops in stunning locations such as Paris, Dublin, Tuscany, Hawaii, New Orleans, Santa Fe, Vermont, Asheville, Mackinac Island, New York,and Iceland.
Along with world-class faculty, our retreats combine the best of a rigorous workshop with the pleasure of seeing and experiencing an incredible place with top-flight guides.
Our mission is to create transformative educational experiences that connect people through the power of art, travel, and community.
We lead destination retreats to some of the world's most incredible places, offering immersive programs in art, writing, yoga, and photography.
Our goal is to inspire and nurture personal and creative growth by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can learn, explore, and connect deeply with both their craft and fellow travelers.
By blending education with the joy of discovery, we aim to enrich lives and build a global community united by a shared passion for creativity and exploration.
Here are a handful of our rave reviews from past trips:
"This workshop exceeded my expectations. I am a former journalist and an academic and it is sometimes hard to get out of my own head. I want to write for a wider public while still showing some of my expertise. I think the times demand it. We must care about the next person. Your workshop gave me some skills that will help me toward that end. I met some incredible writers and Isaac Fitzgerald. What to say? Not only is he an incredible writer, he is an amazing human being. I feel blessed to have met him. He's the world's biggest cheerleader/community builder and knows the craft of writing takes work but is doable." -Sharony G.
"In 2023, I went to Iceland to work with Writing Workshops — it was there the secret to landing essays and interviews was shared. I swear by Writing Workshops, but as a past participant I am under strict confidentiality to not share what we were taught. One must attend for themselves and learn secret handshakes etc." - Y. Conza
"Coming to Iceland for the Workshop helped me achieve an important breakthrough in a project I've been trying to finish. The beauty of the location, the support of the writing cohort, and the quality of the instruction made all the difference!" -Lori F.
"Writing Workshops Iceland allowed me to reconnect with myself as a writer and to be in community with others who naturally understand my love for my craft. I learned. I had fun. I grew as a writer and a person. It was a perfect experience. I can't wait for the next trip!" -Bowie R.
"If you've ever thought about taking time to focus on your writing and building your writing community, don't hesitate to consider one of these writing workshops. The community we built over the week in Iceland was incredible. I'm calling this a 'trip of a lifetime' because it truly was an unforgettable experience. I will cherish this week for years to come. I cannot wait to participate in another workshop in the future. Thank you to Mike and Blake for creating such a unique and rewarding experience." Christine G.
"Writing Workshops is the perfect balance of inspirational travel and classroom camaraderie—a wonderful option for any writer with a sense of adventure who is looking to explore their work in a group setting." Isaac F.
“I have been on other writing retreats, but this was by far my favorite. In part, due to the location and the exceptional instruction, but mainly because of the people. What an incredible group of writers assembled in breathtaking countryside, to enjoy food, fellowship and craft. I want to do this retreat again! The communication and deadlines were effective and reasonable. At no point did I feel that we were not informed or had the resources to contact organizers with questions. Chloe Cooper Jones’ instruction is impactful. She is an excellent teacher, and I know she changed so many careers for the better during this retreat. Her workshops and presentations are engaging and a phenomenal blend of information, humor and Q&A. My brain was on fire afterwards and I began outlining my next project based on her feedback. It was truly inspirational and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to sit down with Chloe but also have her expertise. Chloe's seminar on curiosity was invaluable. What an incredible group of writers and instructors assembled in breathtaking countryside, to enjoy food, fellowship and craft. I want to do the Tuscany retreat again!” -Maya B.
"I had a great time in Tuscany. The feedback was very good and came from honest places. The food and scenery was very good as well. Kelly Luce was a great mentor and someone I'm glad I grew close with as the trip went on. Chloe Cooper Jones was great and spoke very well. I enjoyed listening to her talk. Kelly took me seriously, which surprised me due to my imposter syndrome. She gave legit critiques that were based on craft and not personal taste. She also encouraged me and pointed out what I excelled at. Everything was spaced out to give us something to do, and I felt comfortable not participating when I couldn't. I even found some writing time. This trip is nothing short of spectacular. The food, scenery, friends, and constructive criticism were sincere and wonderful. I met so many great people who taught me a lot, and I got to try Gelato. What a great ride." -Dominic T.
"The workshop exceeded my expectations. It was just what I needed at this time. The lectures, discussions, and workshops were valuable, and the environment was superb. The pace was not too rushed, but I felt I was always engaged. Our hotel was fantastic: Charming, clean, comfortable, great service. A beautiful environment and an authentic Tuscan Villa. I had a lovely time, learned from the best, was given concrete ideas for improvement,, and left inspired to make progress on revising my novel. I am grateful for the positive, energetic vibe of the facilitators and instructors. I felt safe throughout and felt inspired about my writing process." -Patricia G.
"I am blown away by how much I got out of this retreat! The workshop itself was worth the money. Add that to the one-on-one with Kelly Luce (invaluable) and the connections I've made with fellow writers as a result--definitely a bargain! I'm not sure I'd change anything. The length of time was just about right. The excursions were fun. I enjoyed gathering for lunch with the group too and meeting people from the other workshop. I wish I'd attended this workshop years ago! It's changed the way I approach writing--I think it's going to make me a much better writer." -Heather V.
"Kelly Luce was an excellent facilitator, and I loved my one-on-one with her. The workshops were similar to my MFA workshops. The addition of wonderful afternoon activities, the serene and luxurious environment of the hotel, the excellent seminars, the delicious food, and the stimulation of reading and thinking about other writers' work was great. This was a spectacular gift. Great combination of writing work and then taking advantage of all the beautiful things to see and do in Tuscany. I loved the reading we did on our final day. The hotel had great staff, fantastic food. Gorgeous, comfortable rooms, the beautiful garden, the way I could find private places outdoors or join a group. Thanks for making everything run seamlessly and for choosing such excellent writers as workshop facilitators." -Natalia N.
"This was my third retreat with Writing Workshops, and the workshop instruction in Tuscany was like a graduate-level course, and the hotel and events made the tuition very reasonable. It was an awesome location and perfect environment to think about and concentrate on my writing." -Lewis T.
“The workshop in Tuscany was amazing balance of writing focus and sightseeing/vacation and completely exceeded my expectations. The instructors were amazing, as were the accommodations; also appreciated the airport transit. Chloe was incredibly supportive, prepared and inspiring to work with. She put so much thought and care into reading everyone's work and overseeing the workshop structure. Chloe read and thought about my goals and writing so carefully and personally. Simply put: Writing Workshops Tuscany was an incredible experience with the perfect balance of writing, sightseeing, and community. Between the thoughtful instructors, and the careful planning of the organizers, I left the workshop feeling inspired on all fronts.” Erin L.
"The writing retreat to Tuscany exceeded my expectations! I enjoyed everything. No complaints. No disappointment. Kelly Luce was fantastic. The accommodations were first-rate. The food was great. Side trips were well thought-out and worth my time. I would not have changed anything. And our hotel was amazing." -Gloria C.
“The Tuscany workshop was the purest of magic! Our cohort were serious, skilled, and kind but thorough critics. Chole Cooper Jones is a brilliant writer and superb coach and critic. The next time she coaches a group, I want to be there. The Villa Sabolini was exceptional in every way. The entire experience was perfectly planned. The writing coach was superior. What else could we have asked for?” -Joan W.
“What a wonderful way to see Tuscany: with a group of like-minded writers! The lectures were awe-inspiring, and the food was fantastic. I made several long-lasting connections and left feeling motivated to improve my stories and get back to work on my novel.” -Tanya S.
"The Iceland Writing Workshop is a unique opportunity to hone your craft in the company of other dedicated authors, while immersed in the beauty of this intriguing island." - Jennifer C.
"I gained encouragement, inspiration, and plenty of wonderful memories during my time in Iceland!" Brenna H.
"Do this if you are serious about writing." -Jeannette B.
"Hands down the best workshop feedback I’ve ever received. I felt so lucky to be a part of this workshop and really enjoy the friendships I forged." - Ben H.
"For me, as a yet-unpublished writer, it was a great introduction to the world of workshopping. I felt comfortable sharing my stories with this helpful, diverse and dedicated group. And even though I'm daunted by the amount of work I have ahead of me, I'm inspired to start combining my stories into a memoir--something I hadn't considered before." -Sue P.
"This workshop exceeded my expectations. The classroom critiques and instructor one-on-ones were extremely helpful, the people were wonderful, and the atmosphere was inviting. It was an experience I'm so glad I didn't miss." - Carissa C.
"Writing Workshops Paris was an unforgettable, dare I say, 'life-changing' experience for me. I was astounded by the quality of instruction, the expertise of the staff, and the talent of my fellow participants. I learned so much during the workshop and made memories that will influence my writing for years to come. I would recommend it to anyone." -Emily N.
"Do this if you are serious about writing." -Jeannette B.
"There's not enough words to fully describe how amazing this workshop retreat was for me. Between the instructors, the city, the feedback, and the writing -- I was in writerly heaven. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to experience it, because it's something I will remember forever." -Jade E.
"The combination of high-caliber writers and exciting locations is what drew me in. I had no idea just how life changing my time in Dublin would be. I came home with lasting friendships, meaningful memories and thoughtful suggestions to improve my work in progress. I'd recommend these workshops to any writer." -Carol D.
"When I applied for Writing Workshops Dublin, I was hoping for an inspirational experience to revitalize my writing. The workshop completely exceeded my expectations, not only because of the transformative feedback I received in the workshop but also because of the friendships I came away with. While rigorous and intensive, the week was also relaxing and full of fun, exactly what I needed to come back to my writing with energy. Thank you for such a wonderful experience! " - Alexa D.
"As someone new to writing non-fiction, I found the Dublin Workshop to be extremely helpful. Not only did I get thorough and helpful feedback on my own work, but the general group discussions on writing and publishing were very informative. Dublin also provided a perfect literary backdrop for the workshop, and the schedule - with a combination of workshop time, one-on-one time with the instructor, free time, and excursions - was perfect. I will definitely do another workshop in the future!" -Dana Z.
"Writing Workshops Dublin is wonderful in every way. Blake and Mike thought through the details of workshops, craft talks, one-on-ones, tours followed by dinners, the hotel’s location, and probably more that happened behind the scenes. They are gracious, generous, and funny! The workshop facilitators, Stuart and Diana, are personable and generous with their knowledge and experience. The other writers are now friends and writing buddies. I left Dublin full of happy memories and with a stronger vision for my novel-in-progress. Thank you for an outstanding week!" -Jenn G.
"Writing Workshops Dublin was far and beyond the best workshop I've attended in a very long time. The city of Dublin was the perfect place to home in on my current projects with a group of talented, dedicated writers. The workshop instructors were the best I've worked with. I will never forget what I gained during that short week, and will keep in touch with so many of the people I met. Thank you for an incredible experience!" -Anne H.
"I arrived in Dublin for the Writing Workshop a little uncertain about how it was going to work. It was my first time in a nonfiction workshop, and I only knew one other person. The experience exceeded my expectations: the meticulous planning and organization, the participants, and particularly, the instructors. Diana Spechler (my nonfiction workshop instructor) was a joy: straight-forward, knowledgeable, supportive and accessible. I left with a solid sense of how to approach my nonfiction work, but more importantly, I greatly appreciated Diana's support of my work in general. I would recommend the Writing Workshop in Dublin to anyone who wants to combine a week of exploration, history, new friends, and terrific instruction ." -Joanna S.
"The Dublin Workshop more than delivered on its promise. Great, insightful discussions in the workshops, an invaluable one-on-one opportunity with a world-class novelist, and a new circle of talented and supportive writing partners." -Rita M.
"I had no idea what to expect on my trip; I'd never been to Paris, and while the workshop schedule seemed really interesting - filled with activities and free time to explore as I liked - I had no idea how much I would love every day I was part of the group. Blake and Mike went out of their way to make sure each group member was getting everything they possibly could from the experience. The excursions were fun and informative, the workshops inspiring and valuable. I would absolutely take another Writing Workshop trip again as soon as possible!" -Kristin P.
"This was an absolutely wonderful experience. I learned so much in a short amount of time and made some great friends along the way. I will definitely come back!" -Anne G.
"I would do Writing Workshops Paris all over again if I could. It's a beautiful, almost-a-week long experience spent honing your craft, learning new skills, connecting with writers from around the world, and exploring Paris, a city with such incredible literary history. The experience has energized me about my writing and left me inspired." Amanda D.
"The workshop exceeded my expectations. The communication was excellent leading up to it, and Writing Workshops was on top of every detail. The nonfiction workshops was incredibly instructive and helpful, and I feel I learned a lot. The hotel was in a wonderful section of Paris, and the evening activities brought us closer as a group. The whole experience was life-changing (without sounding overly dramatic) and gratifying." -Ethan J.
"I am a published novelist, critic and journalist and taking a nonfiction workshop was really out of my comfort zone. I knew I'd learn something and become a better writer because of it, but I honestly didn't think I'd do anything with creative nonfiction beyond this week. Thanks to Chloe and my wonderful, encouraging cohort, I have changed my mind and am going to pursue creative nonfiction alongside my other writing endeavors. And of course, Paris is a positively dreamy place to write, walk, eat, drink and get inspired!" -Lauren W.
"Hands down the best workshop feedback I’ve ever received. I felt so lucky to be a part of this workshop and really enjoy the friendships I forged." - Ben H.
"Writing Workshops in Paris was so amazing! Getting to spend all week working on essays and then by evening exploring the city on foot or bicycle?! Iconic! Loved getting to meet fellow writers, work with established literary stars, and the reading on the Seine was the perfect farewell! Highly recommend to anyone who is looking to write and explore Paris!" -Emily V.
"I’ve been to a number of workshops in my writing career, and this one was by far the most inspiring! Not only was it right in the middle of literary Paris, but it attracted a diverse and wonderful group of writers. More than the city, their encouragement and critiques gave me such confidence in my work. I hope to take them, and Paris, along for many stories and novels to come. -Sage M."
"A week in Paris, in July, is there anything better? Yep, a non-fiction writing workshop with Mike and Blake! I learned, laughed, and drank a lot! My cohort was wonderful; I've made pals with a bunch of talented, supportive writers, and I can't wait to buy all their books and promote them on social media. Chloe Caldwell was fantastic, as expected, and I've come away from Paris with five weeks' worth of content for my Substack, a plan for my book, and the confidence that I'm not actually that bad at this writing lark!" -Becky C.
"Writing Workshops Paris absolutely made my summer! Both the staff and the participants were lovely, and all of the workshops, seminars, and optional activities were well-planned and well-executed.It was the perfect Parisian vacation, but with a slew of great suggestions on how to improve my writing for publication, and the added take away of what I feel will be lifelong friends and professional connections. I cannot overstate how much fun I had, and I'm returning home inspired and eager to apply all of the feedback I received to my work". - Becky R.
"Writing Workshops Paris was the ultimate vehicle for me to realize my dream of finally seeing Paris, while re-igniting my passion for writing and connecting me with such a wonderful new writing community!" -Dhana M.
"For me, as a yet-unpublished writer, it was a great introduction to the world of workshopping. I felt comfortable sharing my stories with this helpful, diverse and dedicated group. And even though I'm daunted by the amount of work I have ahead of me, I'm inspired to start combining my stories into a memoir--something I hadn't considered before." -Sue P.
"Immersion into the artistic Parisian culture with a small community of like-minded aspiring writers was nothing short of inspirational. How wonderful it was to escape the ordinary, explore the extraordinary, and revel in the craft of writing --for the sheer joy of it--in the heart of beautiful Paris." -Estee C.
"This workshop exceeded my expectations. The classroom critiques and instructor one-on-ones were extremely helpful, the people were wonderful, and the atmosphere was inviting. It was an experience I'm so glad I didn't miss." - Carissa C.
"WWP was the first workshop I attended. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on my book-in-progress from both Diana and my new writing community! Merci, merci." -Christina K.
"Writing Workshops Paris was my first professional workshop,and it won't be my last! Aside from the magic of being in Paris, which cannot be understated, the amazing people I met were the best part of the week. I left with unexpected friendships that I will have for life,and a fresh motivation to finish my novel. My approach to my writing has been invigorated and my motivation renewed, and I feel connected to this amazing community of writers in a way I never expected. What an amazing week of inspiration and history, great writing and incredible people. Thank you so much for a life-changing week!" -Kerrin S.
"Chloe, I want to thank you again for such a wonderful workshop. I really appreciated the time and skillset you brought as a facilitator and am very grateful for your feedback on my work, as well as recommended resources.." -Brenna K.
"The Paris workshop was inspirational. The setting was liberating as a writer, and leadership was always in good humor, organized and helpful. The feedback has given me a good direction for my work." -Janice H.
"An unforgettable time at the Paris Writing Workshop. Wonderful facilitators, knowledgable instructors. The information was so helpful to my writing. Plus, there was the unexpected joy of bonding with fellow writers. Blake and Mike did an outstanding job. My only complaint was it was too short!" -Leslie R.
"The workshop gave me invaluable knowledge and insight into the art of writing. And even better that we got to do it is Paris!" -Karl H.
"My grateful heart overflows for Writing Workshops Paris. Everyone I met was so supportive (we still keep in touch!) and willing to share their critiques, encouragements, ideas, and books with me. For a week I could forget how lonely the writing process can be and find community in a beautiful city." -Gabriele H.
"Wonderful opportunity to visit and write in a new place, all while learning from some amazing instructors!" -Uwana I.
"Paris! The perfect place to dive deep into a writing practice, but also learn how to sustain that practice for a nourishing life. Wonderful instructors, sharp and funny cohort members, high-level writing and feedback...and, even more, connections to endure beyond the trip. What more could you ask for?" -Allyson N.
"Blake and Mike are two of the most efficient purveyors of fiction workshops I've had the pleasure of taking part in--as are their instructors. But I guess that is to be expected since like attracts like. Bravo performance." -Helen C.
"Coming to Iceland for the Workshop helped me achieve an important breakthrough in a project I've been trying to finish. The beauty of the location, the support of the writing cohort, and the quality of the instruction made all the difference!" -Lori F.
"Writing Workshops Iceland allowed me to reconnect with myself as a writer and to be in community with others who naturally understand my love for my craft. I learned. I had fun. I grew as a writer and a person. It was a perfect experience. I can't wait for the next trip!" -Bowie R.
"If you've ever thought about taking time to focus on your writing and building your writing community, don't hesitate to consider one of these writing workshops. The community we built over the week in Iceland was incredible. I'm calling this a 'trip of a lifetime' because it truly was an unforgettable experience. I will cherish this week for years to come. I cannot wait to participate in another workshop in the future. Thank you to Mike and Blake for creating such a unique and rewarding experience." Christine G.
"Writing Workshops is the perfect balance of inspirational travel and classroom camaraderie—a wonderful option for any writer with a sense of adventure who is looking to explore their work in a group setting." Isaac F.
"The Iceland Writing Workshop is a unique opportunity to hone your craft in the company of other dedicated authors, while immersed in the beauty of this intriguing island." - Jennifer C.
"I gained encouragement, inspiration, and plenty of wonderful memories during my time in Iceland!" Brenna H.
