Both are built around the same art studio and the same property – the difference is structure.

The Creative Stay is self-directed. You have unlimited access to the studio, and a studio host who will help you get set up and settled in, and is around during the day if you want a fresh pair of eyes or someone to bounce an idea off – but won't hover or interrupt your flow. Work on whatever you like, at whatever pace suits you. No schedule, no curriculum. It's for people who want time and space to create on their own terms. 

The retreat programs are structured weeks with a set program: guided workshops, cultural outings, shared meals, and open studio time, all balanced across seven days. Three programs run under the Open Studio Art Retreat Series, each with a different creative focus. If you'd prefer a guided experience with more shape to the week, a retreat is likely the better fit.

Not sure which suits you? Talk to us – we're happy to help you find the best fit.

None, for most of what we offer. The Creative Stay welcomes anyone who wants to make something – whether you haven't picked up a brush since school or you paint regularly. There are no expectations, no assessments, and nothing to perform.

For the retreat programs: Life in Watercolor and Finding Your Abstract Voice are both designed for beginners – no experience needed. Evolving Your Abstract Voice is aimed at people who already have some experience with abstract art and want dedicated time to deepen their practice.

No need to bring anything. The studio is fully stocked with shared materials: acrylic, oil, gouache, watercolor, pastels, colored pencils, charcoal, markers, and lino – plus all the tools you'd expect: easels, brushes, rulers, aprons, and more. The materials are well suited for everyday creative work and exploration.

If you work with a specific brand you're attached to, you're welcome to bring it. A small selection of premium materials – stretched canvases, canvas panels, and sketchbooks – are also available to purchase on site if you need them.

Absolutely. For Creative Stay guests, that's exactly the point. Come with a project in mind, or arrive with nothing and see what develops. The studio is yours to use however you like.
During the retreat programs, open studio time is built into every day – so there's plenty of room to continue your own work alongside the guided sessions.

Between 3 and 6 participants. Small by design – it keeps the experience personal and gives everyone genuine time with the studio host.

Six weeks before the retreat start date, we check whether the minimum has been met. If it hasn't, we'll contact you directly and give you three options: a full refund, a voucher valid for 12 months, or transferring your booking to a Creative Stay for the same dates. If more guests join after that point and we reach the minimum before the retreat starts, it goes ahead as planned.

Everything you make is yours to take. Smaller works travel easily in a tube or flat pack. For larger canvases, we can help with packaging to protect them for the journey – most airlines will accept rolled or wrapped canvases as oversized luggage. If you'd rather not travel with them at all, we can help arrange shipping. Just let us know before you check out and we'll sort out the best option.

Breakfast is included in every stay – prepared fresh each morning from local ingredients. If you have dietary requirements or allergies, just let us know before you arrive and we'll make sure it's taken care of.

For lunch, we visit the local market daily and cook for ourselves whatever is fresh and in season – a considered, low-waste approach that keeps the food simple and good. Guests are welcome to join – we let you know what's on the menu the night before, and you just tell us if you'd like a portion. 

For everything else, there are excellent local options nearby – some within walking distance, many more a short bicycle ride away. Most deliver too, if you'd rather not leave the studio. We're happy to share our recommendations on arrival.

Hoi An has two main seasons, though the reality is more gradual than a clean split.

• February to July – warm, sunny, and good for the beach, cycling, and being outdoors.

• August to September – still hot with plenty of sunshine, but afternoon showers become more frequent.

• October to November – the wettest months, with heavier rain and occasional flooding in the old town. We're on higher ground in Tra Que and stay dry year-round.

• December to January – cooler and drier than the peak wet months. Evenings can get chilly, so a light layer or two is worth packing.

All seasons have their appeal. Rain can be surprisingly good for creative work – there's something about being inside the studio while it pours outside. We're open year-round and guests find inspiration in every season.

Should I bring my partner or friend if they're not into art?

Yes – plenty of guests do. Hoi An has a lot to offer beyond the studio: the old town, the beach, cooking classes, craft workshops, bicycle rides through the countryside, a trip to My Son Sanctuary. The list goes on. And of course, the pool and garden are always there for a slower day.

If they're joining you during a retreat week, there's a Travel Partner option that covers accommodation and breakfast – just get in touch for details.

We love kids, but The Interlude is designed for adults and young adults aged 16 and above. This is to make sure everyone – including you – can fully switch off and focus.