I'm a beginner, can I sign up?
Yes of course! The art retreats are suitable for all experience levels.

Is the retreat available to vegetarians? Vegans?
Yes. Regular, vegetarian, vegan diets accepted. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements.

How do I get to the villa?
Hyères is located 1 hour from Marseille and 1 hour 15 minutes from Nice by car. Numerous flights operate to and from these two nearby international airports (MRS and NCE). Hyères also has its own airport (TLN), where direct flights operate from Paris (ORY). You can also get to Hyères by high-speed train from Paris, Marseille, or Nice. France’s only website for train tickets: https://www.sncf-connect.com/

Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed, and do make sure to book refundable tickets in case the retreat had to be cancelled.

What should I pack?
Sunscreen, swimsuit, a hat, insect repellent, walking sporty shoes, personal care items.

Are the art supplies included in the workshop?
No, a detailed list of materials to bring with you will be given by the artist.

What’s the weather like in Hyères?
The weather in Hyères in June is generally sunny and warm. You can expect average highs of 27°C / 81°F during the day that drop to around 20°C / 68°F at night. Sea temperature is usually around 22°C / 72°F.

The weather in July is very sunny and warm, definitely the beach and swimming pool season! It can get quite hot during the day up to 35°C / 95°F and we get around 25°C / 77°F at night.

How big is the group on the retreat?
There is a minimum number of 6 participants and maximum of 8. A small group to truly enjoy every moment!

Do I need a visa?
Guests traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter France for tourist purposes without a visa.

Are there any age restrictions?
You MUST BE AT LEAST 18 years old to participate in the retreat.

Is the art retreat available to guests with limited mobility?
Unfortunately, the villa counts many stairs and is not well suited to host people with limited mobility.

I don't speak any French...?
The retreat is available in English. The artist and hosts speak English (Mathieu has a good level of English and Maria is working on it!).

How can I secure my booking for the retreat?
We ask for a 30% non-refundable deposit of full booking upon reservation and the remaining at the latest 8 weeks before the start of the retreat. A contract will be sent to you. Your spot is secure ONLY when you've paid the deposit AND signed the contract.

Is airfare included in the price of the retreat?
No, flights are not included and we strongly recommend participants to book refundable tickets in case the retreat had to be cancelled. We will not be responsible in the case of lost tickets.

Is travel insurance included in the price of the retreat?
No. We require all travelers to have travel medical insurance before departure. This is MANDATORY per the contract you will need to sign at time of booking.

Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not “guaranteed”?
The retreat is “guaranteed” when and ONLY when the minimum number of participants (6) is reached (has paid the deposit). Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.

Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is cancelled by the artists or by Simple Life in Provence?
If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events, or circumstances out of Simple Life in Provence’s and/or the artist’s control, we will let you know as soon as possible, and refund the total cost of the retreat (EXCULDING flights).

What happens if I cannot make it because of COVID-19?
Unfortunately we will not be able to reimburse anyone because of COVID and you will need to seek trip reimbursement with your travel insusrance.

Can I come with a group of friends?
Yes! We even encourage this option as it makes it easier for logistics to get to and leave the venue.

Can I come with my partner if he/she does not participate in workshops?
No, we're sorry but as we organize the retreat for a small group (8 max), we want everyone to be participating in the workshops for the good of the group’s dynamics.

Check-in and check-out times?
Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 04:00 p.m on the 1st day of the retreat. Check-out is after breakfast on the last day.

Is WiFi available?
Free WiFi is available in designated areas.