Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL

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

This trip is for people who love historical fiction and romantic suspense genres of any nature. No matter how obscure your interests are, we welcome you to come, share with other fans, and experience places in Coastal Carolina that resonate with the books and stories you love. We will provide you a reading list before the trip in case you’d like to read some of the books being discussed ahead of time.

When is the registration deadline?

The deadline to register is January 5, 2026.

What will the weather be like in Charleston and Savannah at this time?

January is a great time of year to visit this region. Temperatures are typically in the low 60s so pack light clothes.  The majority of our gatherings will be indoors and but you may enjoy a light jacket for the activities outdoors.

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 group to help communicate with other attendees in regard to the excursions, 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 things to do in Charleston and Savannnah. 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 WhatsApp 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?

As much as you would like! The tours we have scheduled will be moderate, but if you need accessibility accommodations, we will help assist with those logistics. If standing is difficult, we will make sure there are plenty of places to sit while we are viewing artifacts and exhibits.

We will not be organizing transportation between events and gatherings, but are happy to provide advice on ride shares and rental cars.

Is this a Women’s Only Retreat?

No! 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 invigorated and inspired. We fully support booking time at a spa, 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?

Each of the hotels will have a valet option for a charge. We suggest renting a car - especially for the day we are roadtripping from Charleston to Savannah.

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

Yes!  We have a daily rate of $250, 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! In addition, the two event author gatherings can be booked separately as well at a rate of $65.

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 are free to look at hotels and accommodations outside the room block hotels. However, these are the hotels where the majority of our author gatherings will take place.

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 January 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.