Testimonials

Think of those tours where way too large groups of people with dead eyes and grim faces traipse behind a tour guide from place to place, desperately ticking items off a rigid travel to do list. This is mass produced and packaged elevator music travel. Gunnas International is the fun alternative, indie music version.
Gunnas is the feeling you get when you hear a champagne cork pop. It’s all about joy and enchantment, chock full of intellectual and creative stimulation, and a total hoot. 
Dev and Jess have created a rare hothouse flower of an experience, a sublime mix of high quality organized activities, where the depth of thought and care in planning is obvious, spontaneous plans based on the group’s curiosity and interests and, most importantly, ample ‘space for magic’ which is anything you want it to be – solo meandering, extended nap time or watching swing dancing by the side of the Seine. Tell Dev and Jess what you’re interested in for recommendations, directions, Metro advice, dining suggestions. 
There were so many highlights… in Provence, a brunch of freshly shucked oysters with the crispest white wine at the Saturday market in Sommieres, watching sunset starling murmurations in awe from the rooftop garden and pool terrace of our hotel/fort/sanctuary, afternoon swims and lazy conversations poolside, the longest and most decadent lunch under the vines with the sound of Bowie on vinyl floating through the windows into the garden. 
In Paris, a private tour of Musée Marmottan Monet led by Steph (Queen of all guides), whose astounding knowledge of art and history brought Monet’s art to life and painted a vivid picture of the Impressionist era, riding in motorcycle sidecars through Paris – I’m still smiling – to Montmartre, watching the evening light dim through the stained glass of Sainte-Chappelle as we listened to a string quartet, a bookshop tour of the Left Bank followed by a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens. 
Dev’s writing blocks provided a break in our days for self reflection and creative exploration in the most beautiful spaces. Time travelling to past and future selves, pondering curly questions, making up stuff, imagining new realities for ourselves, doodling in the paragraphs, all of this happens within this space where Dev provides writing prompts and timed writing tasks to help you along the way.
Then we come to the people in the group, such incredible people, who took the leap of faith and immersed themselves in this adventure. So many stories told and listened to, sometimes with curiosity, sometimes reverence and often while laughing uncontrollably. Kindred spirits found, friendships made. As a side note, if you are a solo traveller seeking travel with an authentically inclusive group of people, you’ve found it.
Gunnas will wake you up and give you a soft place to land. 
Maeve
I have been to France many, many times. I love it, it’s beautiful, insert typical Francophile comments here. When I saw Catherine and Jess were running a retreat in Paris & Provence I was intrigued, but hesitant. What could they show me that I hadn’t already seen visiting friends and family over there? 
Oh. My. God. Everything – was the answer. They showed me everything. 
If you’ve been to Paris – this is different. If you’ve been to Provence – this is different. It’s different, and it’s better. The whole trip was like having a holiday curated to your every fancy. 
Sommieres was my favourite. The 400-year-old chateaux, the incredible couple who run it (and cook some of the best French food I’ve ever had in my life), the pool, the garden, the sheer number of spaces to hide away and write or socialise and write. The bedrooms are unbelievable. It doesn’t matter which one you get, they’re all gorgeous. 
If I could go on this retreat every year I would. In fact I might. 
Kris

The Gunnas International retreat will go down in my living memory as one of the best holidays I’ve ever experienced. It was transformative by design and nature.

Normally, I’m an independent, solo traveller who delights in planning every moment. Jess and Dev’s safe hands provided the magical trip to Paris and the South of France, bringing, fun, culture and experiences, as well as writing, over the ten-day retreat, allowing me to relax, and stop being a control freak for ten days.

It was the people who made this trip. This trip brought together sixteen remarkable women. . A better group of interesting, passionate, crazy, fun, funny people you could not hope for.

The great thing about the trip was everything was on an opt-in basis. If you didn’t want to do something, you didn’t have to. Jess used her intimate knowledge of Paris to provide suggestions if you didn’t feel like doing the day’s activities. These recommendations were always taken with grace and thanks.

The writing exercises, provided each day, were fun and thought provoking. We were also given opportunities to take our writing to some amazing places, including the Richelieu Library, in cafes in the Marais or by the pool in our unofficial clubhouse, at the Hotel de l’Orange in Sommieres.

The hotel accommodation was top notch. Not too posh, but wonderful – and I will be forever grateful for experiencing the pain au chocolat at breakfast each morning in Paris. The meals provided were fantastic. The curated experiences were all on point.

I’m grateful to Dev and Jess for their care, enthusiasm, planning and joy they brought to the trip.

My only thought now is how do I get myself on another retreat. I left the trip thankful for every moment, but wishing the magic would continue.

Amanda

I would recommend this to open minded, flexible and independent friends who love travel, books, wine, food, culture married with the chance to explore their creativity and reconnect with their spirit.

Thank you for your love, dedication and creating magic. Ten days of whimsy and delight. Unforgettable

Elizabeth

 

I had been thinking of going on a writers retreat for a while when I saw Catherine mention GI on Instagram. I had been following her for a little while and liked the look of her weekend retreats but they were a long way from where I live in the north coast of NSW. I know France is further away but I never can say no to overseas adventures! I went as a solo traveler having never been a Gunna before but the itinerary looked right up my alley and I expected Catherine would attract a group of like minded people to attend and I was right. The accommodation was wonderful – a beautiful room in Paris to retreat to when I needed some quiet time, and a group of amazing women to hang out with. No pressure to take part in activities  and I skipped some to wander the streets of Paris alone and people watch in cafes over a wine, or sit in a beautiful park to do some writing but I also loved riding a bike through the streets of Paris, the amazing meals we shared, Crazy Horse was a hoot and I will always treasure the long lunch in Provence that kicked into drinks in the garden with the legends Tom and Lizzie. 
The women were amazing, the itinerary was fantastic and the care and thoughtfulness of Jess and Catherine was so appreciated.
I am so glad I went. 
Holly

You’re thinking about taking a trip, aren’t you? I can tell. I’ve been there. I had a germ of an idea to go overseas alone, specifically to France – what middle aged woman doesn’t need to escape her family once in a while? To remind herself who she is. To discover who she wants to become. To eat croissants. I was already looking at flights and dates, when I saw Dev shout out about her masterful plan. I rushed so hard, I would not be surprised if I were the first person to book.

I’d never been on one of Dev’s retreats before. I was a little nervous that I wouldn’t know anyone but that was also exciting. Group travel can be hit and miss. Then I met the Gunnas. At a cosy hotel, but then properly with a drink in my hand on a rooftop, with a sunset kissing our Parisian vista. This was not a miss, it was a hit. I was with my people.

Every day of Gunnas International was a croissant. Layers of lovingly planned and executed adventures, each a treat that brought me closer to France, my travel companions, and myself.

Daily delights, like a stunning library ceiling. A necklace bought at a vintage market. The spiral staircase of a hidden jazz bar. I learned I’d been buying the wrong croissants (still pondering how those two words can live in the same sentence). We made perfume, maps, language pathways and footsteps in laneways. We made each other laugh till our faces ached. We made friendships. I loved everything Jess and Dev arranged for us.

The activities and destinations you chose were much better suited to groups, much more enjoyable and were not things I could have easily organised or known about.
My attitude was to say yes to every experience. I knew I could sleep when I got home to Melbourne so I wanted to do everything! But I realise that may not suit everyone. Plenty liked being able to bail and do their own thing, which they were able to do without any pressure to participate. But I would still say trust your fearless leaders!
I didn’t anticipate how relaxed I’d be while on the holiday and how motivated I’d be on my return. Maybe I wouldn’t have waited so long to be a Gunna.
It’s really hard to isolate one thing. I loved the writing sessions but only because they existed woven into all the experiences. Probably the pastry tour was the activity that I benefited from the most. And while the Crazy Horse performance was less my kind of thing I haven’t drunk so much and laughed as hard as I did on the journey home so that night was a highlight.
I feel so much more connected to Paris and my ability to write and my own capabilities as a result of the trip. I had no idea I would meet such incredible people who have added a dimension I couldn’t have designed.

Gunnas International changed my brain. Not in the alien abduction probing kind of way, though honestly Dev and Jess would be intrigued and accommodating should you request that for your itinerary.

But what about the writing part? I wrote every day. There was always time carved out for writing. I had been pushing at the edges of a project before the trip. But, you see, I wasn’t me yet. I had to go away, have my brain completely changed and come home. And then I wrote. And wrote and wrote some more. Six months and one hundred thousand words later, I have discovered what I am truly capable of. This is a priceless souvenir from France. Thank you Catherine and Jess.

I would not hesitate to recommend Gunnas International. I will definitely go again. If you are on the fence, climb over it. Book it. Go. Have fun. Sleep. Eat. But whatever you do, do it with Gunnas International.

Fiona

Do it, book now! This was one of the best things I’ve done for myself in YEARS. You won’t regret it – good for the heart and soul. There aren’t many tours you can do that you immediately feel like you’re travelling with good friends.
Catherine and Jess, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this beautiful experience. It’s one of the best things I have done and will remember it forever. I have a new found love for France and hope to return again to recapture some of its creative magic. Lots of love x
Jane
I appreciated the synergy that You (Jess) and Catherine expressed. I felt safe at all times. I felt that if I had needed anything youse woulda sorted it……. The group quickly developed a vibe of openness, support and respect for each other. Ten/nine days was an ideal length.
Julie
You’re amazing and I am so grateful for how you took care of us on the trip. Thank you! xx
Laura

As one of the inaugural International Gunnas, I can unequivocally say that this trip was the stuff of dreams. Unexpected experiences, new friendships, insights, laughter, love, and joie de vivre aplenty. If you’re on the fence, DON’T BE! You will have no regrets!

It’s so hard to pick a highlight. I loved it all! I think it was the fact that there was a diverse schedule of activities and I didn’t have to organize anything. All I had to do was follow the instructions and have a good time. The What’s App group worked well. Food was great. Accommodation was great.

Just thank you! You were amazing and the trip was revelatory.
I previously attended a one-day Gunnas workshop at La Luna and read Dev’s book “Use Your Words”, and really enjoyed both. My husband sent me a post about Gunnas International and I checked out the website and initially thought, “nah, it looks great but I can’t afford that”. Then I thought, “nah, fuck it, I can afford that”. I was working a contract and I could save the money. So I signed up. So glad I did.
Jennifer

Gunnas International organised a fantastic group tour. With Dev and Jess guiding our way, we got to experience Paris in a unique and thoughtful way. I’ve never been to Europe before, and I don’t speak French, but I felt safe and well looked after with Dev and Jess. The time in Sommières was really special at Hôtel de l’Orange. It was a perfect change of pace and chance to relax in a beautiful and creative space after exploring Paris. It was a brilliant experience from start to finish.

Just trust the lovely organisers.

Bonnee

It was really special, and conducive to writing, story-making and the general boho artsy vibe. Loved the market, the pool, the hosts, the pace, everything.

Cecilia 

The villa in Provence was like paradise. I loved that it was so old, so strong, so beautiful. It was like living in a postcard for 4 glorious days. Such an amazing and calming place. I felt my blood pressure returning to normal as soon as we set foot in the front gate. I really loved our apartment, I loved the eclectic accessories and the books everywhere, and the space and the gardens and the fucking amazing pool. And the stunning view. And the church bells ringing every morning. Liz and Tom were awesome; their food was phenomenal.

I wasn’t sure how I would go with this as I have no artistic ability, but I ended up absolutely loving it and the map I created is the most treasured thing I’ve brought back with me. It represents my (philosophical) journey in Paris and the places I found the most calm. I look at it and it makes me want to cry with happiness. Sonja is an absolute treasure. This is a critical, must-do Gunnas activity. It helped me think about the trip in a different way, and has been great for my writing since I got back home.

That it would fundamentally change how I see the world and my life. This is equally as much related to it being my first trip to Europe as it is to being Gunnas. Also, that 153 consecutive days on Duolingo is almost useless and you can get away with knowing about a dozen French words, including ‘Je ne peux pas parler français’.

Can’t narrow it down to one, seriously. Having you and Dev to look after us. Getting to know the people in the group. Feeling safe and looked after even though the environment was unfamiliar. The goody bags – the phone lanyard has changed my life and I won’t take it off, even now that I’m home, even in the shower. Getting a taste of a different life. Having pre-loaded Metro cards. Having excellent planned activities. The freedom to ‘choose your own adventure’ as needed. The food. Hotel de l’Orange. The pool. Our amazing apartment. The bread, the cheese, fromage frais for breakfast. The whole fucking thing.

Just my eternal gratitude to you and Dev for making this happen; I feel so privileged to have been able to be a part of it. This experience has changed how I see the world, my home and my life. The impacts will be lasting. I have written a lot since I got home. I have cried a lot. I have sought out French cheese and pastries like a desperate addict. It’s all your fault and I love you both for it. x

Having been to several Gunnas retreats the thought of extending that feeling of creativity and safety to 10 days in Paris was too amazing a thought and too great to pass up. One of the best fucking decisions I’ve ever made.

Jen

Absolutely. I’d recommend it to people who appreciate experiences (such as Mokonuts and the bouillon) outside the norm for tour groups. Also, for anyone interested in taking time for self reflection and engaging with their own creativity through the writing sessions.

Getting to know the group, hearing individual stories and the diversity of ways people live their lives. So many brilliant people! Having the space to do this in a medium sized group, amidst the new experiences we were sharing, was just the best.

Lynda

I was a Gunnas Retreat virgin. I had dabbled in a Gunnas writing workshop , but it took me nearly a decade to pull my finger out and follow my heart’s desire. 
The Gunnas International (GI) Paris to Provence retreat is as beautiful and charming as it looks, however the experience can’t truly be captured in words or pictures,  no matter how many Insta stories you watch. Since GI I am fucking more but have less fucks to give, writing and drawing more and worrying less,  and finding it easier to connect with who and what’s important to me and those I love. It was not a perfect holiday but it was magic. 
If you have an inkling that you’d like this trip  – BOOK IT NOW.  Jess and Dev will be waiting for you, and all of the inaugural, darling GI trippers will be cheering you on as you embark on this amazing adventure for yourself. I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds.

Big love to Dev and Jess – thank you for creating this wonderful adventure and being so generous and kind in how you wrangled us all 

Being familiar with Gunnas, I trusted the thought, care and detail in all the arrangements. I knew I would love getting to know my beautiful fellow travellers. I was also excited at the thought of doing this fabulous thing for myself, having missed overseas travel during the pandemic.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. I am still basking in the afterglow. Feel more myself than I have ever have been. This was boutique, bespoke beautiful experience – a real gift to give myself. .

I loved how it all unfolded and trusted in both CD and JJ. 100%. 

Anyone who is curious about the world beyond their own borders and who is into contributing to a shared travel experience. People who are into Music/ Artist/ Food. Have already mentioned to a few friends. Also this is a truly inclusive tour in terms of accomodations made for people’s individual needs. Perfect trip for solo travellers too. 

Bec