Alessandro Russino
See slowly, tell stories honestly
Here, photography is treated less as a technical exercise than as a way to pay closer attention. Alessandro Russino’s retreat invites participants to slow down, observe, and shape what they notice into stories, with an emphasis on curiosity, authentic expression, and respectful travel. The experience moves beyond a single retreat venue: the main space hosts the welcome and closing gatherings, while other locations are chosen to suit the group and its activities. Meals bring another local dimension, with visits to Balinese warungs, cafés, and restaurants serving Indonesian and international food, including vegetarian options. The retreat’s listed themes include leadership and social change, making it a thoughtful fit for travelers who want to explore how images connect people and place. Ngurah Rai International Airport is described as the pickup point for arranged transfers. The retreat is paid, with prices starting at USD 900; confirm dates and practical details with the host before booking.
Highlights
- Photography approached as a practice of observation and presence
- Activities shaped around the group and planned locations
- Meals at local warungs, cafés, and restaurants
- Storytelling connected to leadership and social change
Good for
Setting
The retreat is based at an address in southern Bali, but its activities are not confined to one venue. A main space is used for the welcome and closing sessions, with other locations selected around the group and its plans. The approach makes local places part of the creative experience.
The practice
The retreat centers on photography as attentive looking: noticing details, approaching places with curiosity, and expressing a personal point of view through images. It is not described as a formal meditation course, and no particular meditation tradition is named. Beginners can expect a creative, observation-led experience; ask the host what camera or photography skills are useful before arrival.
A typical day
Daily structure varies with the group and planned activities. The main venue is used for a welcome session and a final closing meeting, while other sessions take place in locations chosen for the retreat. Meals are enjoyed at local warungs, cafés, and restaurants; confirm the day-by-day schedule with the host.
Accommodation
The retreat uses a main accommodation, but its style and room arrangements are not described. Listed amenities include air conditioning in rooms, free Wi-Fi, towels, and housekeeping. Ask the host about room types and what is included in your stay.
What to bring
Bring a camera or phone you enjoy photographing with, plus comfortable shoes for getting around during activities. Bali averages 26.3°C; pack light, breathable clothing and a compact rain layer, especially in wetter months such as January, May, and October.
How to get there
The retreat address is in southern Bali. Its directions describe Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) as the arrival point, with airport pickup arranged when you share your flight details in advance.
Nearest airport: Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) (63 km)
Kalimarau Airport (BEJ), about 63 km away near Tanjung Redeb on Borneo, is identified as the nearest airport, but the retreat address is in Bali. Confirm the correct airport with the host; retreat directions also describe arranged pickups from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).
Nearest city: Tanjung Redeb - Borneo Island
Contact the host directly to confirm retreat dates, availability, and reservation details.
Prices start at USD 900. Confirm what the fee includes with the host before booking.
Climate
Climate Zone: Tropical
Best Months: Jul, Sep, Jun
Avoid: Jan, May, Oct
Bali is warm year-round, with an average annual temperature of 26.3°C. January, February, and March are the coolest months, while July, September, and June are driest; January, May, and October are among the wettest.
Location
Frequently asked questions
Where do the retreat activities take place?
The main venue hosts the welcome and closing meetings. Other locations are arranged to suit the group and planned activities.
Can I join if I am new to photography?
The retreat focuses on observation, curiosity, and personal expression. Ask the host whether any prior photography experience is recommended.
What food is served during the retreat?
Meals are taken at local warungs, cafés, and restaurants, with Indonesian and international dishes. Vegetarian, vegan, and pescetarian options are listed; share dietary needs in advance.
How do I reserve a place, and what does it cost?
Prices start at USD 900. Contact the retreat host to confirm dates, availability, and how to book.
How do airport pickups work?
The retreat describes arranged pickups from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Share your flight details with the host in advance.
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