10 years ago Tara Donovan was looking forward to a romantic weekend with her husband Jonathan. Little did she know that she would come home with a lot more than duty free!
They were headed to Olhão, a working fishing town in the Eastern Algarve in Portugal, a previously prosperous place where the polish had faded but the charm had not diminished.
Tara had never been to Portugal, didn’t speak the language and at that point would have struggled to differentiate her cobra from her downward dog yet a decade later she is the proud guardian of Casa Fuzetta, named by CNTraveller in 2024 as one of the top yoga retreat venues in the world.
Tara and her friend (of 30 years) Kate Rowland draw back the curtains of Casa Fuzetta. Through conversations and interviews with the people and community in this special corner of the world, they uncover why serendipity is a regular occurrence and coincidence is the stuff of everyday magic
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SEASON 2 - final episode - from Jamaica to Portugal and the creation of the Golden Web retreat venue
Episode 19
Sunday, May 25, 2025 • Duration 35:17
In this final episode of Season 2, Tara and Kate explore the fascinating journey of Anna Henriques, founder of the Golden Web Retreat, a healing sanctuary situated near Fuseta, in the eastern Algarve of Portugal.
Anna shares her incredible story, from her origins in Jamaica and New York, to her unexpected Portuguese citizenship through Sephardic Jewish heritage, and her ultimate decision to settle in Portugal. The narrative interweaves historical events like the Spanish Inquisition and Jewish pirates of the Caribbean with Anna's personal quest for belonging and community. Along the way, Anna discusses the vision and development of the Golden Web Retreat, highlighting its natural beauty, spiritual environment, and future plans.
The episode is set against the backdrop of nature, with vivid descriptions of local wildlife and landscape.
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
SEASON 2 - Episode 9 - Meet Kate Sass - retreat host and the Queen of Manifestation
Episode 18
Sunday, May 18, 2025 • Duration 30:51
In this episode, Tara spends time in the sun on the rooftop of Casa Fuzetta with Kate Sass, founder of Sass Wellbeing. Kate will be hosting her second yoga retreat at Casa Fuzetta in April 2026 but this recording was made whilst she and her husband Gino were workation guests in February 2025.
Tara and Kate explore the balance of work and relaxation that a workation offers, the exchange of ideas among guests, and the story of manifesting her dreams into reality.
In particular, Kate shares why she has become known amongst friends as the Queen of Manifestation!
Join us for an inspiring discussion on the power of vision boarding, personal growth, and the magic of Casa Fuzetta.
You can also tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.
SEASON 2 - Episode 8 - A full moon soundbath & guided meditation
Episode 17
Sunday, May 11, 2025 • Duration 01:20:35
Join us for a deep dive into the energy of Casa Fuzetta.
Experience a special sound bath recorded under the full moon during our February workations, guided by Sanne and Johnny.
The episode gently leads you through relaxing breathing exercises and meditation, encouraging self-forgiveness, healing, and reconnecting with your body and inner self.
We invite you to find a quiet space to immerse in the sounds and energy, enhancing their mindfulness and introspection. (1hr20min)
You can also tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.
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Season 2 - Episode 7 - Meet Johnny - Creator of Soundbath Magic
Episode 16
Sunday, May 4, 2025 • Duration 20:56
In this episode, the focus is on the profound experiences at Casa Fuzetta, particularly unraveling the captivating practice of sound baths led by Johnny and Sanne.
Johnny shares his unique journey from being a self-taught musician inspired by Nirvana to becoming a sound bath curator.
The conversation delves into the spiritual exchange during sound baths and the importance of vibration and frequency in tuning into higher energies.
In our next episode, join us for a soundbath and guided meditation on the night of the full moon to share a little in the everydaymagic of Casa Fuzetta.
SEASON 2 - Episode 6 - A born yogi shares tips on picking the best retreat for you
Episode 15
Sunday, April 27, 2025 • Duration 37:44
EPISODE 6 - A Journey of Yoga and Sound Healing at Casa Fuzetta
In this episode, Tara and Kate explore the life and experiences of Sanne, a Dutch yoga teacher who has been part of the Casa Fusetta family since 2016.
Sanne discusses her journey from the Netherlands to Peru and ultimately to Portugal, where she now resides and conducts yoga sessions and retreats. She shares insights into her early introduction to yoga and meditation, her philosophy of integrating ancient female wisdom into her practice, and how yoga serves as a spiritual and healing tool.
Sanne also talks about her collaboration with Johnny in conducting sound baths, the nature of different yoga practices, the importance of knowing one's body, and her experiences hosting retreats.
The episode emphasizes the significance of managing expectations when joining a retreat and highlights the unique dynamics that new guests bring to each session at Casa Fuzetta.
You can also tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.
SEASON 2 - Episode 5 - Insights from a first time guest
Episode 14
Sunday, April 20, 2025 • Duration 31:25
In this week’s episode of Casa Fuzetta - the House of Stories, we hear from Jane Mackie, founder of Rora Dairy on her perspective of Olhao, Casa Fuzetta and our Workations as a first time guest.
I challenge you not to smile as you hear Jane fall under the spell of Olhao’s everyday magic - from the crazy mix of architecture to be found across the town, the beautiful attention to detail, the charm of the local people and of course, the delicious food.
Jane also shares the magic of finding herself within a group of talented, creative and inspiring fellow workationers and how stepping out of the daily routine helped provide clarity and perspective for tackling some of the big strategic decisions we face in our businesses and our lives.
It was a true pleasure to have Jane join us and I hope you share in the joy of this interview.
All the delight, but none of the calories of an Easter Sunday full of chocolate eggs!
The episode concludes with a sneak peek into upcoming content, including a sound bath and guided meditation.
If you would like to join our February 2026 Workations, please join our waiting list: HERE
Or join our mailing list to be amongst the first to hear about new availability and retreat dates.
SEASON 2 - Episode 4 - A visit to the Gallery of Meinke Flesseman
Episode 13
Sunday, April 13, 2025 • Duration 34:57
In this episode, Tara visits the beautiful gallery and apartments of artist Meinke Flessman in Portimão, Portugal.
They discuss Meinke’s journey from Olhão to Portimão, the challenges and joys of renovating a historic 'palacete,' and the vibrant artistic community emerging in the area.
The conversation includes Meinke’s creative process, her dream of hosting artistic retreats, and the various art workshops she already welcomes to the Gallery.
They also delve into Meinke’s background, her family's adventurous move to Portugal in the late 1960s, and her evolution as an artist known for her whimsical animal paintings.
The episode highlights Meinke’s vision for fostering creativity and connection through her art and her spaces.
You can also tap into the sights and spirit of Olhão and the retreats at Casa Fuzetta - by following us on your favourite social media platform.
SEASON 2 - Episode 3 - the Creative Spirit of Olhão
Episode 12
Sunday, April 6, 2025 • Duration 27:45
EPISODE 3 - Exploring the Creative Spirit of Olhão
Tara and Kate go over to their favourite local interiors shop, Zé e Maria to meet with Stephane Gaillard, the store's creative lead.
Stephane shares his passion for blending traditional Portuguese crafts with contemporary design, the importance of community engagement, and teases a new project set to launch in 2026.
The discussion touches on the intricate relationship between local artisans, traditional crafts, and modern innovations, encapsulating the unique essence of Olhão.
The episode reflects on the vibrant, inclusive community of Olhão and its magnetic appeal.
SEASON 2 - Episode 2 - The power of a creative community
Episode 11
Sunday, March 30, 2025 • Duration 44:46
Tara catches up with Haruka and Nora, previous participants from last year's Workations and season 1 of the House of Stories.
The conversation revolves around their experiences and personal growth, the connections and creative community formed at Casa Fuzetta, and the inspiring energy at the house giving them the courage to let their dreams take wing and fly!
The episode closes with a sneak peek into the next episode featuring local interior design innovator, Stephane of Ze e Maria.
SEASON 2 - Episode 1 - The Wonderful World of Workations & Art Retreats
Episode 10
Sunday, March 30, 2025 • Duration 36:21
The Wonderful World of Workations and Art Retreats
In this first episode of our new season, Tara and Kate dive into the concept of 'workations' and introduce Dora, an energetic local artist and art teacher.
Dora shares her journey from Canada to Olhão, her passion for teaching beginner adult artists, and the community's evolving art retreats.
The discussion highlights the blend of vacation and work, the unique energy of Casa Fuzetta, and the supportive and creative community that has embraced this new way of working and holidaying.
Upcoming guests and episodes are also teased, promising insightful stories and more creative endeavors.
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Yin Retreat (late September ‘25 - for dutch speakers only): link
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Resounding earth - singing bowl workshops - explore: link
If you would like to know more about the Paneurhythmy & Sound weaving retreat at Casa Fuzetta 7-13 May 2026, please email casafuzetta@gmail.com.
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Yin Retreat (late September ‘25 - for dutch speakers only): link
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform makes the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
Big thank you to Daisy Tod for help in producing and editing this second Season.
And big thank you to Descript, whose platform make the editing process something we can manage ourselves, without needing to hire a big expensive team. Learn more HERE
