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TBEX Europe 2015, is a global event, which was held in LIoret de Mar, Costa Brava Spain. A place where bloggers and travel professionals meet. As a first timer I had to find out how to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second.

The sponsors provided pre -TBEX trips and excursions.

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second - Part 2 - TBEX Bloggers on the boat

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second – Part 2 – TBEX Bloggers on the boat

Trip to the opening party

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second - Part 2 - TBEX LIoret de Mar Town Hall

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second – Part 2 – TBEX LIoret de Mar Town Hall

An organised trip was arranged to ferry bloggers and travel professionals to the opening beach party held at Hotel Santa Marta.

Delegates were invited to assemble outside the Town Hall in LIoret de Mar where we were escorted on to a boat that would take us to the venue. Most of them were regulars and had known each other from previous TBEX conferences, while others where newbies like myself. The first blogger I met was Sonja Holverson, Author Editor, Co-founder at Outbounding.org

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second - Part 2 - Sonja. The first blogger I met at TBEX

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second – Part 2 – Sonja. The first blogger I met at TBEX

 

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second - Part 2 - At the opening party

How to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second – Part 2 – At the opening party

 

TBEX 2015 Giants

TBEX 2015 Giants

 

TBEX Giants

TBEX  2015 Giants

 

When we disembarked from the boat we were welcomed by Giants and the sponsors who provided great entertainment and lovely hospitality.

This was a great way to break the ice and mingle with other bloggers, travellers and travel professionals, who were mainly happy-go-getters!

The Opening party hosted by the Mayor of Costa Brava

The Mayor (3rd from the left) and some sponsors at TBEX Europe 2015 opening party

The Mayor (3rd from the left) and some sponsors at TBEX Europe 2015 opening party

TBEX Europe 2015 with the Mayor

The beach at night in Lloret de Mar

The beach at night in Lloret de Mar

 

The mayor speaking at the conference with Rick Calvert CEO

The mayor speaking at the conference with Rick Calvert CEO

The conference was held over three days at Hotel Olympic Suites IIoret de Mar and so much was taken away from the Intensive 3 day workshop to improve our skills.

There were Speaker and Keynote sessions, Speedy networking, Closing party and Post-TBEX Trips.

TBEX Hotel Olympic Suites

TBEX Hotel Olympic Suites

 

TBEX Hotel Olympic Suites

TBEX Hotel Olympic Suites

 

Balconies

Balconies

 

Side Street

Side Street

Street Art 

Street Art

Street Art

 

Street Art

Street Art

The event was intensive but the decision to visit TBEX was made in a matter of seconds because time was moving fast.

It turned out to be a truly unique and inspiring experience for a first timer! So glad I learned how to deal with an unexpected invitation in a second. The main lesson learned from TBEX is to be prepared at a moments notice.

Thank you BlogsRelease and everyone for a fantastic time at TBEX Europe 2015 Coasta Brava.

About the Author: Bola

About me and Journeywithbola.com I’m Bola, a London-based travel writer and blogger with over 20 years of writing experience and a background in business and finance, administration, journalism, teaching, and support work across the education and homelessness sectors. I help women over 60 discover the world again, in confidence, friendship and freedom. Since launching my blog in 2013, I’ve been on a mission to inspire and empower women—especially senior women who may feel isolated—to step outside their comfort zones and rediscover the joy of exploration. My work focuses on uncovering hidden historical gems in London and beyond, bringing their stories to life in ways that are engaging, accessible, and meaningful. I believe travel isn’t just about going far—it’s about seeing familiar places with fresh eyes. Over the years, I’ve met many people who have barely explored London despite living here, often held back by routine. That’s where I come in. Through my blog and curated group trips, I help women experience the city (and the world) like curious travellers, not just residents. My trips are designed to be more than just journeys—they’re shared experiences that build confidence, connection, and lasting memories. Whether we’re walking through historic streets or venturing further afield, the goal is always the same: to inspire you to move, explore, and embrace new possibilities. Because I truly believe—we are not meant to stay still. If you’re able to move, in any way, then keep moving. My passion for travel began in childhood, inspired by watching my parents explore the world. That early influence shaped my belief in travel as a powerful tool for well-being, growth, and transformation. The Vision Of Journey With Bola Create a community of mid-luxury travellers. If you would like to book a 15 minute consultation with me, click below.

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2 Comments

  1. Jacqueline Gum 30/06/2015 at 7:17 pm - Reply

    Thanks for sharing this conference! Wow! It covered so much and I can see where that last minute invitation was really a great thing!

    • Bola Akande 01/07/2015 at 7:30 pm - Reply

      It was an amazing conference and it just goes to show that that no matter what, we just have to be prepared.

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