The main purpose is to have fun! Also, I get a lot more sewing done as there are no interruptions from family, no meals to fix, no laundry needing done, no TV, etc. Just sewing. Any problems or design indecisions are usually quickly solved by the group. I pack a lot less than I did at the beginning and now am able to just bring what I actually will use for the projects. I usually take 2 or 3 projects, but don't get them all done. Most people I know love retreats, but I do have a few friends who prefer to only sew at home, so you will need to make that decision yourself.