So, when you’re planning a writing retreat, don’t invite the pissed off, territorial racoon.

Jus’ sayin’.

This particular one snuck up on us.  My buddy and I were walking back up to our cabin and we both froze.

He’s staring at us, Ray…

Here’s a couple other travel tips:

• Consider timeshares.  This one is on the mountain above Ogden, Utah, USA, and is absolutely gorgeous.  They tend to be very reasonably-priced.
• Don’t overfill your agenda.  Pick, at most, one special thing to do each day.  People like to sit around and gab.
• Set the atmosphere.  A candlelit dinner can pull people together.  Let each person talk about what they’re proud of that happened in the last year.  (And as a tip, have some tissues handy.)
• Bring some story prompts and a timer.  Getting on the page can be a lot of fun, especially on a trip with a new setting.
• Set the menu plan ahead of time.  It saves money to shop at a local grocery store and to make meals at the event.  If you have a kitchen, it’s super helpful.

What about you, Dear Reader? What’s your favorite tip for group events?