Civitella provided me with an opportunity to dedicate much needed quality time to my writing and indeed to myself in a supportive international community of writers, composers and artists. That the residency takes place in an area of outstanding beauty was an important part of the experience for me. My room overlooked the breathtaking Appenines and fortuitously they resemble a mountain range in Antigua which features in my book in progress. My stay at Civitella, supported by the most kind and caring staff imaginable, has been the most wonderful gift.