creativity and cruising
THE CROATIAN COASTLINE & Dalmatian Islands
Here’s looking at you, adventure! Bring your sense of wonder, your nautical stripes, and maybe even that sketchbook that’s been begging for a little romance.
Step aboard our private 174-foot luxury motor cruiser, Casablanca, with Laura King and Janie Florea, and let the Croatian coastline and Dalmatian islands drift before you like the cinematic version of your best life.
it's time to
RETREAT YOURSELF
For 7-nights and 8 days aboard our floating villa (the luxury motor yacht, Casablanca), we'll explore Croatia’s jaw-dropping Dalmatian coastline, sip incredible wines, explore quaint Croatian towns, savor seafood, play in the water and dive into creativity, connection, and the Mediterranean way of life.
We’ll relax, sip, and sail our way through 1400 years of history.
don't miss the boat
ON THIS ADRIATIC ARTISTIC ADVENTURE
This is your chance to hit pause on the busy-ness of daily life and stow away for a week with us for a luxurious, creative escape along Croatia’s gorgeous coastline. Seriously, what could be better?
Aboard our 174-foot luxury cruiser, Casablanca, you’ll find the perfect mix of indulgence, inspiration, and laughter, with a soundtrack of salty sea breezes, belly laughs and maybe a little yacht rock!
"This retreat far exceeded all of my expectations and from the moment I stumbled upon this retreat, I knew this was something special. The people who atttended couldn't have been better. So many belly laughs! I guess like attracts like. Thank you for this wonderful experience which I will remember forever." - Moe, Croatia 2025
Here's what's on deck:
THE HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR 8 DAY ITINERARY
With over 1,000 islands and the ever-playful Adriatic as our co-pilot, this route is always subject to a little spontaneity. But one thing stays constant: our private yacht gives you front-row access to hidden bays, storybook harbors, and seaside villages that most land-based Croatia travelers never come close to experiencing.
Over eight unforgettable days, you’ll wander UNESCO-listed stone streets, swim in turquoise coves, sip island wines where they’re grown, and soak up that delicious Croatian concept of fjaka—the art of guilt-free doing nothing.
You’ll dine at cozy konobas and seaside grills, while discovering why Pelješac reds and Dalmatian whites have a cult following. You'll be spoiled rotten by our onboard chef’s coastal creations, too. This is a trip for your senses, your camera roll, and your future self who will be very happy you said yes.
Here’s what your Croatian retreat looks like, day by day (subject to change)…
Trogir
UNESCO GEM & YACHT-HOPPING HQ
We begin (and end) in Trogir, a tiny island town near the larger island of Split. It's wrapped in medieval walls, with sunlit alleys, Gothic and Renaissance palaces, and a palm-lined promenade that feels like a movie set.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason—2,300 years of history and not a dull corner in sight.
You’ll board our private yacht, Casablanca, settle into your cabin, clink a welcome toast on deck, and watch Trogir’s golden glow fade into the distance as we set out toward our first stop on the itinerary.
Milna
(Brač)
Vis
THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND
Next up: Vis -- more remote, more rugged, and once so strategic it was closed to foreign visitors until 1991, so it still feels like a beautiful best kept secret - unspoiled by throngs of visitors.
Here, you can swim in hidden bays like Stiniva, with its famous dramatic cliffs and translucent water. Wander Vis or Komiža town for relaxation and enjoy that unhurried island rhythm. It’s cinematic and soulful.
Korcula
BIRTHPLACE OF MARCO POLO
Korčula, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” is a stunning Croatian island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. In Korčula, you can go on the optional add on off-road buggies tour and wine tasting. Trust us, it's one of the most fun was to explore the island and taste its treasured wines.
The medieval Old Town, with narrow stone streets and Venetian architecture, is said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the island offers beautiful beaches, vineyards producing Grk and Pošip wines, and lively folklore traditions like the Moreška sword dance. Korčula’s blend of history, nature, and charm makes it truly special. It's teeming with absolutely decadent restaurants including a few favorites with Michelin stars. And you'll be soaking it all in!
Hvar
SUNNIEST SPOT IN ALL OF EUROPE!
Hvar, Croatia’s sunniest island, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and lavender fields. The medieval Hvar Town boasts Venetian architecture, a lively marina, and the historic Fortica Fortress with breathtaking views. Beyond the glamour, the island offers serene coves, vineyards producing Plavac Mali wine, and charming villages like Stari Grad. A blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty makes Hvar one of Croatia’s most beloved destinations. You can even feast on a traditional Peka dinner, dance under the stars or live your best glamorous life at the infamous Carpe Diem!
Trstenik
Welcome to Trstenik, population: calm. Here’s where we practice fjaka—Croatia’s national sport of gloriously unproductive relaxation. It’s not laziness; it’s enlightenment with a spritz and sunglasses.
Between naps, we’ll feast on the freshest fish imaginable, it was swimming just hours before and (optional add on) swirl a glass or two at Grgić Winery, where the Napa legend Mike Grgić brought his famed winemaking chops back home to the Adriatic. These wines rarely leave Croatia… which is understandable, because you won't want to leave either!
Ston
FOODIE & OYSTER PARADISE
Ston, a small coastal town on the Pelješac Peninsula, is famous for its medieval stone walls, some of the longest in Europe. It's the Croatian version of the Great Wall of China - and apparently can be seen from space (we have to trust them on that one!). We'll experience the incredible oyster farm (an experience you won't want to miss), wine and salt pans. Ston is a foodie’s paradise offering some of Croatia’s best seafood and supplying all of its top restaurants with its famed oysters.
Trogir, Split
EPIC GOODBYES
We sail back into Trogir for our final evening aboard—sunset on the Casablanca, our goodbye dinner and party, one last round of toasts to new friendships, ridiculous outtakes in your camera roll, the most epic scenery and a version of you that feels very much alive (and definitely doesn't want to board the plane home!).
After breakfast on board, you’ll disembark ready for your next adventure—or you'll head home with salty hair, a very smug smile, and a permanently raised standard for what “vacation” means to you.
This isn’t just a trip. It’s Croatia the way most people never see it—with a floating boutique hotel, a small circle of incredible humans, and permission to fully relax and enjoy all of it (no need to plan a thing!).
Vitamin Sea
ALSO ENJOY MASSAGES, MINDSET RESETS, CREATIVITY WORKSHOPS & WATERSPORTS
The boat is its own island of relaxation, exploration and inspiration! Soak up some Vitamin Sea in the sunshine, soothe yourself in the hot tub, enjoy an indulgent massage, take a watercolor or mindset workshop, dive into watersports: paddleboarding, snorkeling, swimming or just float in absolute bliss.
- Jet Ski: Feel the thrill as you zip across the sparkling Adriatic.
- Paddleboards: Perfect for a serene morning glide or a core workout with a view.
- Kayaks: Explore hidden coves and quiet inlets at your own pace.
- Water Skis: Channel your inner 80s action hero and skim the waves.
- Ringo Ride: Grab a retreat friend and hold on tight for a thrill ride that will leave you laughing (and maybe a little soaked).
Massage
HOT TUB, PLUNGE
Fully unwind with all kinds of beautiful wellness activities on board. Hot tub, salt water plunge, and an on board massage therapist (optional add on) to undo any lingering stress from back home. Stretch in the morning seabreeze, stay under the covers or savor your cappucino in the open air. Pick your pleasure! This is how you RETREAT yourself.
signature creativity sessions
SKETCHBOOK | PHOTOGRAPHY | JOURNALING
All Art of Life Creativity retreats include our signature workshops where you'll learn the art of bringing little moments to life through travel sketchbook watercolors and creative mindset tools. These workshops are fun, casual and always inspiring for ALL levels. They are also OPTIONAL.
painting
& MINDSET COACHING
You'll travel through the paintbox as Croatia's craggy coastline and crystal clear water is just begging to be matched by your watercolor palette.
With the easy painting lessons from Janie, you'll let the soul of this magical place spill out onto the page, regardless of whether or not you have ever painted before. No experience needed. This is for everyone! And it's completely optional. (Yes, we might even have some Yacht Rock coloring books for creative silliness if you feel so inclined).
And Laura will give you mindset tools and relaxing meditations from her 25-year remarkable sports psychology and hypnosis practice. If you want to lose a bad habit like a bad habit, or get a mindset to level up your career, your relationships, your golf swing, your pickleball dink or your equestrian hunter jumping dreams ... Laura has got you with her brilliant mindset tools! This is also optional (but you won't want to miss out).
no judgment zone
CREATIVITY THAT IS ALL PLAY. ZERO PRESSURE.
We’re not here to make you feel like you’re back in art class, fumbling with charcoal or in a dreary conference room working on your self. This is about letting loose and rediscovering your spark—whether it’s sketching, journaling, adventuring or snapping that perfect Instagram shot (or not, no pressure).
- Watercolors on deck as the sun sets over the sea. Painting and Prosecco, anyone?
- Creative smart phone photography online app and easy photo tutorials you can do before the trip to help you love your travel photos.
- Journaling to reconnect with yourself and your own ideas. No noise of daily life to distract you.
This is creativity on your terms, with zero judgment and zero inbox dings - permission to unplug!
Casablanca
ALL ABOARD
CASABLANCA: 174 FOOT LUXURY MOTOR YACHT
Step aboard Casablanca. A modern classic designed for the ultimate Adriatic experience, Casablanca is a 174-foot luxury motor cruiser that blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge comfort. This powerful and smooth-cruising yacht offers a stable and spacious retreat with tons of deck space as you explore Croatia’s hidden coves and island gems.
With 18 beautifully appointed cabins, Casablanca can accommodate our retreat guests in style. Choose from spacious double cabins, single cabin options, and twin cabins, plus the VIP cabin—each with its own ensuite bathroom, plush bedding, a/c and WIFI. It's the ultimate comfort and connectivity (though you can tell everyone at home you can't be reached!).
Onboard, you’ll find a full dining room and professional chef’s kitchen, where our renowned Croatian chef will prepare our gourmet meals tailored to our tastes. A dedicated longtime crew of 10 will provide top-tier service, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable voyage.
Casablanca also boasts a sundeck Jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, a wellness area with saltwater plunge, sauna, massage therapist on board, an outdoor cinema, and an array of watersports, from jet skis to paddleboards.
For adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Casablanca is our private island and luxury villa at sea. Welcome aboard! 🚢✨
"Wow. You all did an amazing job making a very creative and festive retreat. We all had a wonderful time! We ate, laughed, danced, sang, wrote, drew, painted, photographed, cooked, shared and just plain LIVED. Thank you for putting together this retreat. It was such a gift!" -Pam, Art of Life retreat guest
"This has been a remarkable week. I can't thank you enough for all of your thoughtful planning and creative energy in making this special for each and every one of us. This week on a boat was absolutely exceptional. I feel blessed, spoiled, and totally renewed. Mission accomplished! Now I can't wait for Morocco in 2026!" --Barbara, Croatia 2025
about
Croatia
"If you want to see paradise on Earth, come to Croatia” -George Bernard Shaw
Croatia
Croatia has always been a muse for dreamers and creatives. Its ancient streets, dramatic cliffs, long history and vibrant culture spark inspiration like no place else.
And let’s be honest—just walking through some of these Croatian old towns feels like you’re starring in your own epic (minus the Game of Thrones dragons - yes it was filmed in Croatia!).
Croatia’s beauty is etched into its 1400 year history, its architecture, and artistic legacy. From its role as a crossroads of Mediterranean and Central European influences to its position as a haven for creatives through the ages, Croatia has always been a place of inspiration, innovation and exploration. Its the birthplace of Marco Polo and Nikola Tesla and also renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović and Marin Držić, a 16th-century playwright often likened to Shakespeare. The country continues to inspire artists, photographers, and writers drawn to its light, landscapes, and history.
Modern day artists: everyone from George Lucas to George Bernard Shaw to Gordon Ramsey also have loved the beauty and culture of Croatia. There’s a reason why epic films like Star Wars were filmed here.
the dalmatian islands
AND THE CROATIAN COASTLINE
Croatia has over 3600 miles of stunning coastline, over 1000 islands and impressively gorgeous mountains. With the Dinaric Alps in the background, you don't just get the best of both mountain and Mediterranean scenery (and absolutely drool-worthy photos), but the geology of those towering alps is also a big reason that the Adriatic Sea is unmatched in its crystal clear clarity.
This week was magical. Somehow even better than the gorgeous website that lured me in! Thank you for all of your planning. I loved everything ... the water, the people, the art and the LAUGHTER. It reminded me of being back in college except barefoot and even better! Best birthday ever. --Molly, Croatia 2025
your hosts:
LAURA & JANIE
Laura
KING
If you could bottle sunshine, laughter, and unstoppable optimism—you’d probably just call it Laura King.
Laura is a Certified Hypnotist, NLP Practitioner, Life Coach, Emotional Intelligence Coach, speaker, and author who’s been helping high performers crush their mental blocks for more than 25 years. Her mindset work has helped Olympians, entrepreneurs, and equestrians alike get out of their heads and into their personal bests (and yes, she can help you do the same for your creative goals, career leaps, relationship obstacles, equestrian dreams, golf swing, and pickleball dinks).
But before she became one of the most sought-after mindset coaches in the country, Laura opened her own roller rink (Florida Skateway!) and co-invented the board game Trivia USA with her brother and sister—proof that she’s been mixing fun, innovation, and entrepreneurship since before it was trendy. She’s also authored multiple books, recorded hundreds of self-hypnosis programs, and spoken on stages for the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation, Dressage4Kids, and beyond.
Laura first joined us on our very first Croatia retreat in 2025—celebrating a milestone birthday and a bucket list dare to herself to say yes to every adventure that came her way. She fell so head-over-heels for the Art of Life Creativity retreat experience that before she even unpacked her suitcase, she joined the team to host a retreat with us.
An avid traveler who’s explored everywhere from Africa to New Zealand, Laura brings an adventurous, “why not?” spirit to everything she does. She’s the kind of person who can turn a boat ride to an oyster farm into a full-blown comedy, and a dinner table into a laughter-filled masterclass on living your best life, no matter what the hiccups are. Her smile is absolutely contagious, her joy is the real deal, and her energy could power a small island.
She’ll be your host for the week—guiding you through mindset tools, meditations, and spontaneous dance parties—and she’s bringing her best friend Janie, an accomplished artist and fellow adventurer, along for the fun. It's quite literally impossible NOT to be inspired to live your biggest, boldest life when you're around Laura King!
Her magic goes far beyond hypnosis, meditations & mindset. She’s living proof that when you say yes to life, it has a beautiful way of saying yes right back.
Janie
FLOREA
Janie Florea paints the way she lives—boldly, joyfully, and with a healthy dose of adventure.
A classically trained artist from Virginia Tech, Janie spent more than 25 years channeling her creativity into marketing and advertising at The Miami Herald. When she retired, she swapped headlines for watercolor paper and never looked back. Three years studying at a Bob Ross–certified studio gave her his legendary patience and love of happy accidents—just with a little more whimsy, mischief, and “let’s see what happens if we mix this color” bravery.
Janie believes art should never intimidate—it should invite. She’s taught everyone from small children to retirees proving that creativity doesn’t come with an expiration date. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or ready to stretch out of your artistic comfort zone, she makes it easy to find your creative flow and your favorite new hobby!
Known for her bold color palettes and playful compositions, Janie’s work radiates warmth, humor, and heart. She’s been friends with co-host Laura King since the roller-skating rink days (yes, that far back). Together, they bring a perfect mix of creativity and camaraderie to this Art of Life Creativity Croatia Retreat.
Janie’s warm, encouraging teaching style will remind you that art—and life—get a lot more fun the moment you stop worrying about perfection and just start letting yourself PLAY. With Janie as your guide, you’ll remember how good it feels to see the world in living color.
Laura and Janie have been close friends for over 40 years.
If you ask nicely, you'll hear some funny stories of their many memories and hilarious shenanigans over the years.
Janie and Laura are thrilled to be a part of Art of Life Creativity Retreats and co-hosting this Adriatic artful adventure. As we all agree, filling your creative cup is way more fun when it's happening in a gorgeous place, surrounded by kindred spirits—new, old, and the ones you just met but already want to be in a lifelong travel cult with (just ask Laura)!
about Casablanca:
OUR ADRIATIC HOME
CASABLANCA: 174 FOOT LUXURY CRUISER
“We’ll Always Have the Adriatic”
Aboard M/Y Casablanca, a 53-meter/174-foot ode to slow beauty and cinematic elegance, your days are spent exactly as they should be—barefoot, unhurried, and deliciously bathed in Vitamin Sea.
You’ll swim, nap, dine, explore, repeat.
Casablanca and the Art of Life Creativity Croatia Retreat is more than a week on a yacht—it’s a floating and luxurious celebration of beauty, connection, and savoring life in all its delicious detail.
Each day a new highlight reel of laughter, light, and sea air.
Aboard the Casablanca
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A warm welcome and a crew of 10 who seem to anticipate your next wish before you’ve even made it. You'll be refreshed with a beverage from the moment you step aboard (you had us at hello).
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A wellness deck with saltwater plunge, hot tub, sauna, and massage room—your sanctuary at sea for those fjaka level afternoons. There's even an on board gym if you want to pretend to offset the incredible desserts.
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Lovely staterooms with daily maid service - you never have to make your own bed.
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A huge swim platform for spontaneous swims in turquoise water and two tenders for easy island hopping.
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A treasure trove of water toys, 2 Seabobs, jet ski, 6 paddleboards, mono ski, inflatable donuts, snorkels, flippers, waterskis … basically, ocean recess for grown-ups.
The Food
Meals aboard Casablanca are crafted from the delicious Adriatic ingredients. Each course comes with a side of conversation, connection, and that easy rhythm that living together on a boat insists upon. Cocktails crafted perfectly, sunsets as the best backdrop, Croatian seafood specialties you can't wait to enjoy.
Cinema under the stars
As the sky turns dark and the water reflects the stars, Casablanca's open-air cinema flickers to life. You stretch out on the upper deck, drink in hand, the soundtrack of gentle waves complementing the film score. And in that moment, you realize—this isn’t a movie. It’s your real life!
Because aboard this ship, it’s never about where we’re headed. It’s about remembering to look up, breathe deep, and toast to yourself saying: “Here’s looking at you, kid.”
our crew
10-PERSON CREW
Oh, don’t worry—we’ll be very well taken care of aboard Casablanca. Our 10-person professional crew (yes, TEN—because why lift a finger when you don’t have to?) will make sure we’re living our absolute best lives. A private chef whipping up gourmet meals? Check. Servers making sure we have a favorite beverage to caffeinate, hydrate or celebrate? Yes! Cabin staff to make sure we never have to make our own bed? Of course. Watersports pros to make sure we enjoy some time on a paddleboard? Much appreciated. A massage therapist to help us fully unwind, ahhh yes. And, naturally, our captain—because someone has to actually drive this floating paradise while we relax, enjoy and pretend we always live like this.
Croatia, we’re coming for you—fully pampered and ready to lounge like the luxury-loving legends we were born to be.
"Thank you for another incredible retreat! It was so wonderful to see the Croatia coastline by boat, visit the adorable little towns and swim in the gorgeous blue water. I feel completely revived. As always, the entire retreat was great from the boat to the food to the adventurous activities, creativity and the amazing people. It was so relaxing and balanced. Now I can't wait for Italy and Provence with you all in 2026!" - Beth
Your
MAIN CHARACTER MOMENT
Every classic film starts with a little mystery, a little anticipation—and one defining choice. This is yours.
This voyage isn’t just about tracing the Adriatic coastline; it’s about rediscovering the plot line of your own life. Somewhere between watching the sunset with a 365-degree view of the water and the laughter on deck, you start remembering who you are when you’re not busy taking care of everyone and everything else in daily life.
Like any good main character, you’ve got a rendezvous ahead—with awe, with joy, with that version of yourself who’s been patiently waiting for her cue.
Whether you’re chasing creative sparks, seeking a stress-free rhythm, or just craving a chapter that feels worthy of a sweeping soundtrack, Art of Life Croatia Creativity Retreat aboard Casablanca is your stage.
Because this isn’t the end of anything—it’s the beginning of a beautiful friendship—with your self, your joy, and your LIFE.
find your fjaka
THE DALMATIAN SECRET TO BLISS
In Croatia, there’s a word for that dreamy, sun-soaked state of pure ease: fjaka. It’s a full-body sigh, a soul-deep exhale, the ultimate permission to just be.
Think of it as the Croatian cousin to il dolce far niente—the sweetness of doing nothing—but with a salty sea breeze and zero guilt. Some call it the Mediterranean mindfulness. We call it bliss.
Mornings with a cappucino on a shaded deck. Afternoons lounging by the sea. Evenings of laughter and movies under the stars. By the end of the week, you won’t just know fjaka—you’ll be fjaka. You won't fjaking believe you've been missing out on this concept your whole life!
have questions?
Do I have to do any art or mindset workshops?
What airport do I fly into?
What if I'm traveling solo?
What are the Payment & Cancellation Details?
What's not included in the price?
What is included in the retreat price?
What if I have additional questions?
Terms & Conditions
"5 stars! Would highly recommend!
I have had so much fun, laughed so hard, and I learned so much about the world and myself. I made new friends, learned how to tap back into my creative self that's been long dormant and was welcomed with such warmth.
I can now paint in watercolor, curse in another language and know how to look for 3 good things in my day. And I can't wait for your next retreat." - Sue (5x Art of Life Retreat attendee - and booked for 2 more in 2026!)
creativity, connection, camaraderie
AND CROATIA!
Not only will you be immersed in all things creativity, cuisine, culture, camaraderie, and connection, but there will be time for just relaxing.
Our retreats aren’t about how artistic or creative you are (not even a little), how many activities we can pack into a week (spoiler: a lot, but in a good way), or how mind-blowingly good the food is (it is delicious, bring your stretchy pants), this retreat is about being fully awake and alive to all the best parts of life!
Come join us in Croatia—you won’t believe what you’ve been missing.
Be the living legend you are and book now before we sell out this extraordinary 7-night/8-day Croatia retreat.
Laura & Janie
AND ART OF LIFE CREATIVITY RETREATS
you had me at Croatia!
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
Wonderful! We can't wait to be in Croatia with you!
BOOK NOW FOR THE EARLY BIRD PAYMENT PLAN
The retreat price is based on single or double occupancy in lower, main, or VIP cabins.
BOOK NOW for our generous four-part payment plan.
INCLUSIONS:
The retreat price includes 7-nights of lodging aboard our beautiful boat, all meals on board, wine and soft drinks and cocktails, group dinner on shore, oyster farm wine tasting and lunch, all art supplies for the workshops, painting, and coaching workshops.
Price includes lodging aboard the boat plus all retreat inclusions. Just 25% down to reserve and then 3 monthly payments until paid in full.
All payments are non-refundable. We recommend trip insurance.
We have a generous four-part payment plan that is available only for bookings right now. Rates listed below are our early bird booking rates - you're saving $500 by booking early.
SAVE $500 BY BOOKING NOW - EARLYBIRD DISCOUNT ENDS SOON
LOWER DECK DOUBLE CABIN (EARLYBIRD): $7450 $6950/person
MAIN DECK DOUBLE CABIN (EARLYBIRD): $7950 $7450/person
MAIN DECK VIP CABIN (EARLYBIRD): $8450 7950/person (Double Occupancy Only)
*There's a single occupancy supplement of $2500. Single occupancy is available in the main and lower deck cabins. VIP cabin is double occupancy only.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY WITH JUST 25% DOWN AND 3 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF 25%. Save $500 by booking now - offer ends soon!
All payments are non-refundable. We recommend trip insurance.
Have a question? Email: [email protected] and we will get right back to you.
Your life is a masterpiece. It's time to RETREAT YOURSELF! We can't wait to have you join us for our 2026 Art of Life Creative Croatia Retreat.
Laura & Janie
AND ART OF LIFE CREATIVITY RETREATS
