Join us for the Spring Esperanto Retreat in the mountains of North Carolina in April! This Southeast Region (Esperanto-USA) event, for both new and experienced Esperantists, will be an enjoyable chance to refine and practice your Esperanto skills in an immersion setting. The focus will be on conversation, supported by a variety of interactive lessons, fun activities, and interpersonal encounters. As much as is practicable, only Esperanto will be spoken, which gives especially to those new to Esperanto — needed practice in understanding and speaking. More experienced Esperantists will sharpen their skills by helping new speakers and having time to chat and interact with new and old friends. If you have learned Esperanto on Duolingo or Lernu! or by textbook and want an opportunity to speak and use it with experienced users of the language, this event is perfect for you. Everyone will have an invaluable opportunity to benefit from the various resources that we can share.

The weekend will be at the Valle Crucis Conference Center, 146 Skiles Way, Banner Elk, NC.

Bill Maxey, an Esperantist for over 20 years and an experienced instructor and presenter, will guide and encourage us in expanding our capabilities with a series of topical modules (some of which will be based on the preferences of participants) on Saturday and Sunday. Bill will touch on some interesting points of the 130-year evolution of Esperanto, answer questions on grammar and usage, introduce some Esperanto literature, and much more. Depending on the skill levels of the group, there may be two groups for some modules.

Free time on Saturday afternoon has been programed in, so you can enjoy the lovely area in and around Banner Elk.

What to bring

Toiletries and personal items. The conference center provides bed linens and towels.

Important to know

The cost is $180 for two nights of lodging, all meals, and the full program. To register, please fill out the registration form, which details other options related to housing and meals. Contact Murray Merner at 919-803-7973 or e-mail him at mmmm0320@gmail.com for registration details or visit the Esperanto-NC website.