Click Retreat Caribbean 2015: My Transformative First Photography & Blogging Conference at Sea

A deep dive into my incredible journey at Click Retreat Caribbean 2015!

Hello everyone! If you’ve been following my adventures on Instagram lately, you’ve probably been flooded with images of sun-drenched beaches, azure waters, and an undeniable sense of pure bliss. Well, there’s a good reason for all that tropical spam! I recently returned from the most exhilarating experience – the Click Retreat to the Caribbean – and it was truly unforgettable. This wasn’t just any trip; it was a deep dive into the vibrant world of blogging and photography, all while cruising through paradise.

This particular retreat holds a special place in my heart as it was, believe it or not, my very first *real* blog and photography conference. And what an introduction it was! I fear I’ve been irrevocably spoiled for life in terms of conference locations. Seriously, any future conferences held indoors or in less exotic locales will undoubtedly feel like a rude awakening after this Caribbean dream. I signed up for this incredible journey on a whim, about six months prior, after stumbling upon an amazing deal. The retreat’s strong focus on photography was an ideal match for my interests, promising a rich learning experience alongside a much-needed escape.

Beyond the professional development, I was also eagerly anticipating a mini-vacation. With a wedding and several other major life events rapidly approaching in the next few months, a serene getaway felt not just desirable, but essential. It offered the perfect opportunity to recharge, gather my thoughts, and find inspiration before the exciting, albeit demanding, period ahead. This trip perfectly aligned with one of my major personal goals for 2015: to travel more. Mission emphatically accomplished, and in the most spectacular fashion imaginable.

{Connecting with wonderful people like Shawn and Barbara}

For several years, my previous professional roles had significantly limited my opportunities for extensive travel. This made the Click Retreat Caribbean not just a conference, but a personal triumph, a fulfillment of a long-held aspiration. The size of the retreat was perfect – intimate enough at around 50 attendees to foster genuine connections, yet diverse enough to bring together a wide range of perspectives. It was primarily geared towards bloggers and passionate photography enthusiasts, creating a dynamic environment for shared learning and creative exchange. What made it even more special, and quite amusingly ironic, was that at least twenty of us were food bloggers! It felt like a culinary cohort had descended upon the Caribbean, ready to capture every delicious moment. A special shout out to my fantastic new buddy and roommate, Meagan, whose company made the entire trip a delightful blend of laughter and shared moments – often to the point of happy tears.

The sheer comfort and ease I felt diving into this experience is a profound testament to the power and welcoming nature of the blogging community. Imagine getting on one of the world’s largest cruise ships with 50 people, not a single one of whom you’d ever met in person before! It sounds absolutely wild when you put it that way, doesn’t it? Yet, there we were, a group of strangers from various corners of the internet, embarking on an adventure together. We quickly transformed into a cohesive, fun-loving group, sharing meals, attending workshops, and exploring the ship and its stunning destinations. This retreat perfectly showcased how online connections can blossom into authentic, meaningful friendships in the real world.

The cruise ship itself was a marvel – a colossal vessel, truly one of the largest in the world. Its sheer scale was breathtaking, offering an array of amenities and activities that made the journey just as exciting as the destinations. From gourmet dining options to vibrant entertainment, serene spa facilities to exhilarating deck activities, there was never a dull moment. Being “stranded” (in the best possible way, of course!) in the middle of the ocean on such a magnificent boat, surrounded by newfound friends, was an unparalleled experience. Don’t worry, I’ll be sharing all the fascinating details about the ship, the destinations, and the incredible sessions we attended in upcoming posts. This introductory piece merely scratches the surface of what was a truly transformative week.

This post is just a glimpse, a mere appetizer, into the incredible week I spent soaking up knowledge, making connections, and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean. There’s simply too much to encapsulate in one single article. I’ve tried, believe me, but it’s an impossible task! So, consider this your invitation to stay tuned. I’ll be back very soon, with a bounty of details, more stunning photographs, and in-depth stories from my Click Retreat Caribbean adventure. Get ready for a virtual journey through sun-kissed islands, inspiring photography tips, and the heartwarming camaraderie of the blogging world!

{Insights from the brilliant Me Ra Koh}

{Inspiration from Joy}

Stay tuned for more adventures and insights from Click Retreat Caribbean 2015 – Part 2 is coming soon!