Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL

Do I need to read these books in order to enjoy this trip?

Reading all of the authors’ Maine books is not required.  However, knowledge of a book or two will help make the trip more fun and meaningful.  There will also be opportunities to purchase the books at various local, independent bookstores along the way.

When is the registration deadline?

The deadline to register is March 1, 2025.

What will the weather be like in Maine?

Temperatures are typically in the low 60s and can get a bit chilly in the evenings.  We are hoping for sun, but we will be prepared if it does rain, so pack a raincoat and umbrella - just in case.

How many details will I need to figure out on my own?

Attendees are required to book and plan their own transportation.  We will provide detailed itinerary instructions and directions.  There will also be plenty of opportunities and suggestions to fill your free time.  In addition, upon registration, you will be invited to a WhatsApp and a private Facebook group to help communicate with other attendees in regards to the excursion, without needing to exchange your private contact information.  We want this to be an opportunity for you to have alone time when you want it, and time with old and new friends when you do!

Will you provide suggestions on what I can do outside of the itinerary?

Yes! In the months and weeks leading up to the trip, our team will send  a list of our favorite Maine things to do. Feel free to reach out as well with any questions about specific interests you may have.  We also hope you’ll take advantage of the private Facebook group to discuss ideas with other attendees.

Are the provided receptions/meals able to be gluten-free and accommodate dietary restrictions?

Most definitely.  We will make sure at the author hosted events with food, dietary restrictions will be accommodated.Upon registration, you will be sent a questionnaire, which will provide you an opportunity to notify us of what dietary accommodations are necessary.

How much walking will be involved?

If you like to hike - Great! There will be opportunities to do so, with the level of difficulty largely up to you.  If you don’t like to hike - There will be plenty of other things to do.

There will be some walking to visit the lighthouses and other points of interest. Many of the activities with the authors will be at hotels with receptions, bonfires, trivia, and book discussions, etc., so there will be plenty to experience without being active.

One nice thing about Acadia is there is so much to see from the car - like Cadillac Mountain, the Park Loop Road and Jordan Pond.  Another item is the Barr Island Hike (this plays a significant role in Heidi's most recent book!). The hike is flat and people of several athletic abilities can participate. Once on the island there are places to rest and it is necessary to walk up the hill to experience how great it is. (Also, the rest of the day can be a time of recovery by enjoying a book someplace relaxing!).

Is this a Women’s Only Retreat?

No! We already have male participation. All are welcome.

How much free time will I have?

As much as you would like! No activities are required and we want this to be a retreat where you can feel refreshed in beautiful Maine and enjoy time with others when you would like. We fully support booking time at the spa, spending time in nature, going for a walk and listening to an audio book, or grabbing a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop with a book. Of course we want you to make new friends with fellow bookish people, too (but only if that’s in your comfort zone)!

What will parking throughout the retreat be like, or what kind of transportation will I need?

We suggest renting a sedan. An SUV is not necessary, but if that is what you prefer - no problem. In addition, we suggest renting a car starting on Friday morning from a place close to your hotel - or Boston Logan Airport (which you would need to Uber or take a taxi on Friday morning). If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mindelynn.

Parking will be available at the room block hotels (the Press Hotel will charge a valet fee). Additional suggestions will be provided regarding parking at each activity with the authors that is not at a hotel.

Can I (or my friends) sign up for specific events and/or days?

Yes!  We have a daily rate of $125, and if you would like to participate for a specific day, reach out to mindelynn@readfarandwide.com and she can make sure you have the necessary information!

HOTEL

How do I book my hotel room?

When you register, we will send you information on the hotels where we have room blocks. You will reserve the hotel rooms directly for two of them, and we will coordinate booking the third.

How do I find a roommate?

If you don't already have a roommate arranged and would like to find one to help share the cost of the hotel room, you can indicate that on your registration form, along with your permission to share your email address for this purpose. I'll put those people in touch with each other via email.

How many people can share one hotel room?

Some rooms are doubles and can accommodate up to 4 people.

CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS

What if I have to cancel my trip due to illness, family emergency, or some other reason?

This trip is a big (and expensive) undertaking that relies on knowing exactly how many people will attend. If you cancel by May 1, we can give you a refund for your trip, minus a $100 fee to cover booking fees.

*Because you are booking your own hotel rooms and transportation, you will also be responsible for cancelling your reservations with them in the event you need to cancel your trip. If you are sharing a room, please give your roommate as much notice as possible so they can make other arrangements.

If I can’t go at the last minute, past the deadline for refunds, could I “gift” my spot to another person to go in my place?

Please! The spot has already been paid for, so we would welcome someone having the opportunity to take it. If the person you gift your spot to would like to compensate you directly for the spot, that’s something the two of you can work out together. Please be sure to adjust your hotel room reservation to reflect that someone else will be staying in your spot.