17/05/2026
I truly love my work. One moment, I'm capturing a sleep-out in Blackpool, a wedding in London and the next, I’m immersed in a retreat in Portugal.
Most of last week, I was asked to document the heartfelt activities at 9 Arches, nestled in the Portuguese countryside of Combria.
I met some of the most incredible people, hosted by beautiful Jess and her kind-hearted mum, Silvia, who are genuinely wonderful souls. During my stay, I was fortunate to receive a head, neck, and back massage, followed by relaxing sessions in the sauna and steam room, and I even participated in aqua aerobics. I listened to the nutritionist, as well as fitness, yoga, and a feng shui practitioner. I'm now rearranging all the furniture.
I also enjoyed wandering around the charming village, hunting for doors.
I stayed just nearby with Denise at her cosy Airbnb.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at 9 Arches were delicious. I just wish I could have stayed longer to soak in more of the retreat's warmth and care.
The retreat’s official launch is in October, so if you’re longing for a few restorative days, where you can be truly pampered and looked after, take a look here. 👇
https://www.9arelax.com/contact-us
Fly into Porto or Lisbon, check into 9 Arches, and forget the outside world exists for a few days. Return thoroughly relaxed.
Big thank you to Ellie Ultimate-Health ThinkOn Hypnotherapy Saima Safdar Oscar, Avnish, Dennise, Suzana
and of course our hosts Jess Pelham Proctor and Silvia.
What a great team!
