Going with FLO(HOM): An Unforgettable Floating Retreat
Written by Tatyana White-Jenkins
Every January, my good friend Mia and I escape to a new location for our annual writing retreat—just two creatives, our notebooks, and an unreasonable amount of wine and snacks. This year, we set our sights on Annapolis, dreaming of a cozy weekend tucked away in a FLOHOM, a stylish floating tiny home, to write, recharge, and revel in our artistic genius.
The universe, however, had other plans.
Just a few hours before we were set to arrive, Mia got a call from our host, Brian. Now, Brian had already earned points in our book for being an attentive and thoughtful host, but this phone call would seal the deal. He regretfully informed us that due to an unexpected arctic blast that took over the East Coast, the water around the FLOHOM in Annapolis was frozen. And when the outside freezes, the inside tends to follow—meaning, the plumbing was out of commission.
You may be wondering: “Why would you book a floating home in the dead of winter?”
To which I say: Great question. But in our defense, FLOHOMS are designed for year-round stays, and we were promised cozy vibes, not arctic survival mode.
Instead of leaving us stranded, Brian immediately came through with options. He offered us a full refund or, if we were still up for the adventure, he’d cover a one-night stay at a local boutique hotel while he worked his magic on the FLOHOM.
With Mia already en route from New York and me fully committed to my much-needed PTO (plus, we both have a deep love for hotels), we opted for the latter.
Brian, now officially our guardian angel, not only set us up with a place to stay but also sent over a list of his favorite local spots. From cocktails that made us emotional to a brunch that we are still thinking about, every recommendation was *chef’s kiss*. It felt like we had our own personal Annapolis concierge, just a text away.
But the plot thickened! Despite his best efforts, Brian realized the Annapolis FLOHOM wouldn’t be ready in time. Instead of sending us packing, he made another incredible offer: a stay at the FLOHOM in National Harbor.
Mia and I, never ones to turn down a spontaneous change in plans, excitedly made our way there. And let me tell you, this place was worth the detour. The pictures? They do not do it justice. I was ready to throw my life away and move in immediately.
The gentle sway of the boathouse, the peaceful water views, and the soft instrumental piano covers of Taylor Swift albums playing in the background (a writing retreat essential) set the perfect scene. We wrote, laughed, squeezed in a necessary reality TV break, and made the most of our creative getaway.
Brian checked in on us throughout our trip, ensuring we felt welcomed and cared for (and providing more outstanding food recommendations!). He even stopped by to personally thank us for our flexibility, share the inspiring backstory of FLOHOM, and make sure we had everything we needed. And without a doubt, we truly did.
Before we checked out, Brian even gave us an exclusive tour of their second FLOHOM at National Harbor, which was just as stunning.
What could have been a frustrating and disappointing weekend turned into an unexpected adventure, one that reminded me exactly why my new mantra for the year is things are happening for me, not to me.
Shoutout to Brian, the ultimate host, and to Mia, one of the best travel (and life) companions a girl could ask for. Our writing retreat may not have gone according to plan, but honestly? I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
This experience also taught us the value of going with the flow, something that feels especially fitting when staying in a floating home! If you’re looking for a unique and cozy getaway, we highly recommend choosing FLOHOM. With their beautiful spaces and hosts like Brian who go above and beyond, you’re in for a memorable trip no matter what unexpected twists come your way.
