Last Thursday, National Geographic Traveller (UK) hosted the Travel Geeks event: ‘Festivals, Forests & Flavours of Tobago’, at London’s Arboretum members’ club, where over 100 attendees joined us for an evening of inspiration, advice and escapism.  

Here are some of the highlights: 

1. Panel: Journalist Alex Outhwaite, filmmaker Juan Leon, creative artist Shakeil Jones and cultural researcher Rayshawn Pierre-Kerr shared their insights. From their favourite Tobagonian dishes to discovering the best local musicians, festivals and adventure experiences on the island, their tips and itinerary suggestions painted a vivid portrait of travel in Tobago.  

2. The Caribbean dinner & drinks: Throughout the evening, guests were treated to culinary specials from Tobago. Attendees enjoyed rum punch servings with bitters – and mocktails, too – accompanied by callaloo (a stew made with the callaloo plant) with rice, plus crab dumplings. The event was rounded off with a special rum- and chocolate-tasting.  

3. The entertainment: Traditionally dressed musicians filled the room with the lively beats of steel pan music, capturing the carnival spirit of Tobago. One of the highlights of the evening was the premiere of National Geographic Traveller (UK)’s latest paid video campaign, showcasing the island’s music and festival heritage.   

We’ll be back in 2024 with another series of Travel Geek events with leading experts. For more information on National Geographic Traveller (UK) events, click here.