Sweet began as an online literary journal in 2007, with the goal to create an inclusive space for all writers, from all parts of the world. In our mission to go beyond borders and boundaries, we seek to cultivate and expand the infinite possibilities of the world. Now, in our 18th year, we bring a new venture: Sweet Retreats Chiang Mai.
Sweet Retreats Chiang Mai now gives writers the opportunity to disconnect from their everyday life, immerse themselves in their creative practice, and experience Northern Thailand’s rich and ancient culture. Sweet Retreat’s main goal is to encourage an international writing community through generative writing workshops and conversation, offer a luxurious space to write and create, and foster opportunities for inspiration.
Participants will meet/write/share in two-hour writing generative workshops, take part in various cultural experiences, and most importantly, be attuned to the artistic self. Applicants must submit a cover letter, which should include why this particular one in Chiang Mai is of interest, 5-10 pages of creative samples of any genre, and a $10 application fee through Submittable.
Chiang Mai Abridged
Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand, about 435 miles north of Bangkok, and is located in the mountainous region of the country. The city fulfills every urban need whilst still containing what Thai people call the “chill feel,” making it a laid-back counterpart to the frenetic–and sometimes overwhelming–energy of Bangkok. Chiang Mai has become the eco-tourism capital of Thailand and is famous for its northern Thai cuisine with its rich and earthy curries, fresh ingredients, and intricate flavor profiles. Chiang Mai is the perfect example of Thailand’s balance between a modern evolving world and a culture steeped in ancient traditions.
Host Ira Sukrungruang has visited Thailand, his second home, throughout his life. Out of all the many beautiful places he has been in this country, Chiang Mai is where his heart is. With his intimate knowledge of the city and its history, Sukrungruang is able to guide participants through Chiang Mai in-person as well as on the page.
Readings and Talks
Some evenings Ira will host readings where he will share his work and hold informal conversations about the literary world. These evening events are designed to be opportunities for participants to ask questions and share their own writing in a welcoming and encouraging environment.
Generative Workshops
Every afternoon participants will meet in an intimate, small group setting to talk about writing and explore topics like home, travel, and belonging. Hosts will provide writing ideas and exercises, many of which will be inspired by the activities done during the day. The goal of the generative workshop is to help spark new writing projects or invigorate projects in process.
Activities
Participants will attend a daily two-hour generative workshop. Activities such as Thai temple hopping, a night market excursion, a visit to an artist’s village, and a cooking class are scheduled each day. The majority of these activities are optional, allowing participants the flexibility to create a routine that best suits their artistic needs. There will be nightly readings for participants and hosts in which drinks and refreshments are provided. Finally, included in the retreat are a welcome and and celebratory dinner.
Lodging
Guests will stay at Smile Lanna, a five-star hotel located near many attractions, including Wat Chedi Luang, a Buddhist temple in the historic center of Chiang Mai. Rooms are beautifully designed in contemporary Lanna decor, and on hotel grounds, there is a pool, coffee shop, fitness center, and restaurant. The retreat provides breakfast, and all rooms come with free wifi, room service, and a writing desk where you can shape the inspirations from your days into words.
Your Host
Ira Sukrungruang
Ira Sukrungruang is the author of four nonfiction books: This Jade World, Buddha’s Dog & other Meditations, Southside Buddhist, and Talk Thai: The Adventures of Buddhist Boy; the short story collection The Melting Season; and the poetry collection In Thailand It Is Night. He is the recipient of the 2022 Chicago Writers Association Book of the Year in Nonfiction, a 2015 American Book Award, a New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship in Nonfiction Literature, an Arts and Letters Fellowship, and the Anita Claire Scharf Award in Poetry. His work has appeared in many literary journals, including The Rumpus, American Poetry Review, The Sun, and Creative Nonfiction. He is one of the founding editors of Sweet: A Literary Confection (sweetlit.com), and is the Richard L. Thomas Professor of Creative Writing at Kenyon College. For more information about him, please visit: www.buddhistboy.com.
Testimonials
Sweet Retreat Chiang Mai was an incredible experience. I loved being able to explore Chiang Mai with other writers. The retreat was a perfect balance of exploring the city and generative writing. The hosts did a great job planning out the week, both with excursions and workshop material!
The Sweet Retreat in Chiang Mai combined all of the things I love most–discussions about writing and many inspirations for those discussions, a group of like-minded peers who still had vastly different backgrounds, and a gorgeous, culturally rich city in which to experience life for a glorious week. If it happens again, I’ll likely sign up again.
At a time with deep political divisions are making it difficult for people of color to speak and write freely, the Sweet Retreat in Chiang Mai allowed our inner voices to be heard. Our different perspectives and experiences were accepted here so that we could relax and be our authentic selves. In general, the Thai people were helpful in situations where I was confused, and were genuinely kind to me when resources (like bus seats) were in short supply. The Sweet Retreat served as a spiritual blessing where we found peace and something beyond the self during our week here. Although environmentally challenged by the heat and humidity, I found the Chiang Mai chill helped me to find peace amidst the chaos regardless of the place my body lands. The Sweet Retreat in Chiang Mai increased my resiliency tool box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an application fee?
Yes*. There is a $10 application fee. Waivers will be considered for recent undergraduate degree holders (Must graduate by May 2026 and no earlier than May 2024.
*Fee waived for AWP applicants.
What is the fee for the retreat?
The fee is $2200 USD, which includes workshops, hotel, some dining, and some activities. Flights to Chiang Mai will be the responsibility of the participant. Optional activities and dining will be available for an additional fee. Details will follow upon selection.*
*Additional fees waived for AWP applicants.
When is the retreat?
May 31-June 7, 2026
Will I need a VISA?
US travelers will not need a VISA, but you will be required to have a passport.
Can I bring my partner?
Yes, but there will be an additional charge for an upgraded room as well for activities and meals selected.
