OLYMPIA
Retreats
Thailand Bead Retreat
THAILAND
We are excited to offer you a retreat where you will have the opportunity to learn new skills and projects from two talented artists.
Beki Haley & Kinga Bledsoe will guide you to create stunning projects.
All of this will take place in a picturesque beach setting, with white sand and unforgettable landscapes to enjoy.
This is the perfect place to start working with beads, if you haven't done so before.
And of course, you will also have the chance to relax and pamper your mind, body, and spirit.
The excursions/day trips included in the retreat are suitable
for people who are unable to walk long distances.
THE RETREAT INCLUDES
Accommodations
Meals: breakfast
Classes + kits (only for beaders)
Group excursions / activities
Tickets for all scheduled activities
Wellness session
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RETREAT
Airfare
Visa and insurance charges
Any item of personal nature like tips, beverages,
laundry, telephone calls, taxi , tickets etc
Security deposit if is required by hotels (refundable)
BANGKOK - THAILAND
May 24th - 28th, 2025
WAT PHRA KAEW - also known as the Temple of the Emerald, is a Buddhist temple located in Bangkok. It is considered to be one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in Thailand. The temple complex is renowned for its incredible architecture and is considered to be the spiritual center of Thai Buddhism and the monarchy. The complex houses the most revered image in Thailand, the Emerald Buddha. Additionally, the Grand Palace, which was once the royal residence and a place of complex rituals and social hierarchy, is also attached to the temple complex.
DINNER CRUISE - Experience the magic and beauty of Bangkok at night while savoring a delicious dinner on a boat, surrounded by the glittering lights of the city's stunning temples and iconic tourist attractions.
Phuket is a beautiful tourist destination located in southern Thailand. It is the largest island in Thailand and is situated on the Andaman Sea. The island is a dream destination for travelers looking for a perfect blend of nature and modern life. With its fine white sands, nodding palm trees, glittering seas, and lively towns, Phuket is a must-visit place for everyone.
While in Phuket, you will explore various beautiful museums, remarkable religious and cultural structures, exotic shows, vibrant nightlife, and some lovely beaches. The beaches in Phuket are famous for their soft white sand, tropical surf, and breathtaking scenery.
THE GRAND PALACE - is a magnificent architectural wonder that served as the official residence of Thai monarchs from the 18th century until the mid-20th century. It is located in the heart of Bangkok and was consecrated in 1782 after King Rama I ascended to the throne. The palace complex covers an area of about 218,400 square meters and features a blend of traditional Thai, European, and Chinese architectural styles. Within the palace walls, there are several buildings, including the Royal Chapel, the Audience Hall, and the Emerald Buddha Temple. The palace is renowned for its ornate decorations, intricate carvings, and exquisite craftsmanship. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand and is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage.
THE BIG BUDDHA STATUE - The Big Buddha Statue is one of the most significant cultural and religious landmarks of Phuket. It stands 45 meters tall and is constructed with concrete covered in white marble. The construction of the statue began in 2004 and was completed in 2018. It is not just a statue, but also an active temple where you can receive blessings from one of the many monks during quieter times.
VISIT TO A PEARL FARM — Are you longing for the exquisite bead factories in the Czech Republic? Don't worry, we have an exciting adventure in store for you. Join us on a journey to a pearl farm where you can discover the art of cultivating pearls. This unique experience is not to be missed, it will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and craftsmanship of pearls and jewelry.
PHUKET - THAILAND
May 28th - June 5th, 2025
VISIT TO THE GEMS GALLERY — Since we are also passionate about beautiful gemstones, we will go to visit the Gems Gallery in Phuket. It's the perfect destination to indulge our passion for all things shiny! The Gems Gallery boasts an incredible range of precious and semi-precious stones, as well as stunning jewelry pieces.
PHI PHI ISLAND TOUR - This amazing tour offers you the opportunity to discover four of the Phi Phi Islands and visit one of Thailand's largest national parks. You can indulge in swimming amidst the coral reefs of Pileh Lagoon, unwind on Bamboo Island, and explore Monkey Bay and Maya Bay.
CLASSES & PROJECTS
BEKI HALEY
Amara Necklace
Amara, a radiant beacon of beauty, woven bead by bead, is a tapestry of colors that dance harmoniously.
The name Amara carries several meanings, but for this project “everlasting” representing the repeated circles intertwining with one another converge in perfect harmony with the name. Each unique bead strung together is like the circle of life - weaving a tapestry of experiences and memories.
Techniques: Cubic Right-Angle Weave, Spiral Rope and Peyote.
Kit Includes: Custom Created Polymer Faux Labradorite Cabochon; Japanese Seed Beads sizes 15° & 11°; Czech Firepolish; Full-Color step-by-step printed instructions.
Skill Level: Intermediate
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REGISTRATION
Cost:
- 4130 EURO for BEADER
- 3780 EURO for traveling companion (this price applies only to 1 companion)
Deposit: a 500 EURO deposit is required to hold your seat (150 euro non-refundable if you cancel)
Payment schedule:
- The second payment of 2000 EURO is due by May 2nd, 2024
- The full payment is due by August 1st, 2024
Accommodation: the price is based on a double-occupancy room in a hotel. Supplement of +730 EURO is applicable for a single room (based on availability)
We encourage you to bring a traveling companion along.
Registration: to register for the retreat, please fill out the registration form and pay the required deposit. Kindly note that registration without a deposit is not valid and doesn't guarantee a seat.
We will send you the event schedule via email.
Please keep us informed of any changes to your email address, as we will periodically send you information about the retreat.
Payment options: payment can be made through PayPal or by card.
Payments via PayPal can be made to the email address : olympiaretreats@gmail.com
Registration will be processed in the order received. There are a limited number of seats available. Once your deposit is processed, you will receive a confirmation email. If you don't receive the confirmation within 48 hours, please contact us.
Cancellation Policy:
We would like to inform you that we are not responsible for any cancellations you make for any reason.
However, if you decide to cancel your reservation before May 1st, 2024 (included) you will be refunded with the amount received from you (except 150 EURO non-refundable). If you cancel after May 1st, 2024 you will be refunded the amount paid, less 500 EURO
If you cancel your reservation after October 1st, 2024, we cannot issue any refunds.
If the organizer needs to cancel the event, all the money received from you will be refunded in full.
Other information:
The price doesn't include Paypal/Card fees (non-refundable)
Registrations made without paying the deposit will be considered null and void.
Availability of single rooms is limited. Please get in touch with us before registering to check availability.
The organizer reserves the right to make changes to the retreat if deemed necessary. However, you will be notified in advance of any such changes.
The organizer reserves the right to refuse services.
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel Insurance.
BANGKOK - THAILAND
June 5th-6th, 2025
Back to Bangkok for our last night together
Thailand is a magical country with a rich culture, fascinating history, beautiful nature, delectable local food, and an innate sense of hospitality. It boasts opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins, Buddhist temples, exotic wildlife, tropical beaches, and spectacular islands.
For those looking to unwind, Thailand's beaches and islands are some of the most beautiful in the world. With crystal clear waters and soft, white sand, places like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Phi Phi Islands are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging in the sun.
Our retreat will take place in Bangkok and Phuket.
SPA TREATMENT — enjoy a rejuvenating and authentic Thai oil massage experience, complete with the soothing benefits of aromatherapy and the relaxing effects of herbal treatments.
KINGA BLEDSOE(NICHOLS)
Khao Sok Bracelet
Evocative of lush jungles with abundant wildlife, the Khao Son bracelet was specially designed for Olympia Bead Retreat's Thailand adventure. As a unique privilege, adventurers will have the opportunity to create their own polymer clay focal with Ludmilla. This focal will then be used to craft a three-dimensional bead embroidered bracelet, a process that brings together six individually finished pieces to form a lush, verdant, and fluttery bracelet that moves with the wearer and fits like a dream. The project can be easily customized using a polymer clay focal in a different shape.
It's a project suitable for all skill levels.
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, with a population of over 10 million. Due to its rapid economic growth and popularity as a global tourist destination, it has become one of Southeast Asia's most modern and influential cities. The city is situated on the banks of Thailand's primary river, Chao Phraya, and from the 16th to 19th centuries, it relied on an extensive network of canals for transportation.
Bangkok is a city full of surprises and contrasts, where there's always something new and exciting to discover. You can admire the gleaming temples, take a tuk-tuk ride through the bustling Chinatown or go on a long-tail boat ride through the floating markets.
The food in Bangkok is another highlight, ranging from delicious local dishes served at humble street stalls to sophisticated haute cuisine at romantic rooftop restaurants. Bangkok is an excellent destination for both shopping and sightseeing.
CITY TOUR - an unforgettable journey through the vibrant city of Bangkok with an English-speaking guide who will take you to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks. This tour will immerse you in the rich Thai heritage as you visit the Old City and some of Thailand's most beautiful sites, such as the stunning Marble Temple, the awe-inspiring Golden Buddha Temple, and the magnificent Reclining Buddha Temple. You will also experience the vibrant energy of Bangkok's markets as you indulge in some shopping. From bustling night markets to traditional floating markets, the guide will take you to discover the local products and traditional handicrafts. You'll have the chance to interact with the locals, learn about their way of life, and immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city.