by Jo Gilham

Forget the post-budget blues and treat yourself to a bite-sized taste of Greek sunshine with a Skyros weekend retreat. It’s a concentrated shot of rejuvenating fun, happiness and laughter that will help you to feel ready to face the next financial year with a spring in your step and a smile on your face.

Although a Skyros weekend break might make you feel like you’ve enjoyed a relaxing holiday abroad; you won’t need your passport. In fact the Skyros weekend courses are held at The Grange, a beautiful Georgian country house on theIsle of Wight. The Grange is quietly set in the picturesque oldvillageofShanklinon the east coast of theIsle of Wight. It is surrounded by lush greenery with beautiful gardens, close to the beach. For an increased feel-good factor you can also book a massage or beauty treatment alongside your retreat.

Skyrosis a fresh, vibrant and unique 21^st Century holiday experience for the independent-spirited. Based in Greece, it’s a contemporary holiday concept that allows you to use your precious break from the real world to learn something new. This could be finding out a little more about who you are or you can immerse yourself in workshops on writing, stand-up comedy, art and music. There are many other courses including; sailing, wind-surfing, massage, salsa and yoga.

The relaxed, informal and friendly atmosphere of a Skyros Holiday allows you the time to reflect and think about what’s important to you. The courses are inspiring and entertaining. Do as much or as little as you want; but above all relax and enjoy the good food and great company. Your tutors are renowned experts in their fields, often household names; they include published novelists, actors, well-known comedians and psychologists.

Skyros Holidays also have adventures that take in the temples and jungles ofCambodia, hot and sultry Salsa in Havanaand the beaches of Thailand.

Prices start at £190pp for a weekend B&B at The Grange, which includes the course (based on two sharing)

Weekend Retreats Coming Up:

• Fri 6^th April – Monday 9^th (Easter): Celebrate spring with drama coach Alison Goldie and Jazz singer Kate Daniels
• Fri 13^th April – Sunday 15^th: Passion, Power and Presence with personal development coach Andrew Risner
• Fri 20^th April – Sunday 22^nd: Writing from Life with author Helena Drysdale
• Fri 27^th April – Sunday 29^th: Yoga for You with Marina Sossi
• Fri 4^th May – Monday 7^th: Your Writer’s Voice with author Crysse Morrison
• Fri 11^th May – Sunday 13^th: The Art of Touch with “Shameless” actress Annabelle Apsion