Attending TBEX as a Travel Creator: My Experience + Tips for Donegal, Ireland
Hey friends, I recently got back from a trip to Ireland!
I started with 3 days in Dublin (read my Dublin blog here) and then traveled to Letterkenny for the TBEX Travel Conference in Donegal. This was my second time attending TBEX, and I had such a great experience. I actually documented a ton of footage this year, so I thought it would be the perfect time to finally write about what it’s really like attending one of these events. I’ll also be sharing a vlog soon — stay tuned!
Hope you enjoy this recap, and feel free to leave a comment if you’d like to learn more about TBEX or travel creator conferences in general.
Introduction: What is TBEX?
TBEX is one of the biggest travel conferences for bloggers, content creators, writers, DMOs, and brands. It’s a space where travel creatives connect with destinations, tourism boards, and each other, all while exploring the host city through curated experiences, workshops, and networking events.
This year’s TBEX Europe was held in Donegal, Ireland, and I was lucky enough to attend.
Why I Wanted to Attend TBEX
I first heard about TBEX years ago when I was still living in Los Angeles. I always wanted to attend, but then COVID happened and plans got postponed.
My very first TBEX was last year in San Sebastián, Spain. Since I live in Barcelona, it was the perfect excuse to check out a new Spanish city, and it ended up being such a rewarding experience. I loved the structure of the event: pre-tours, insightful talks, networking with travel brands, and unforgettable opening/closing parties that gave us a taste of the local culture.
That experience hooked me. I even won a free ticket to a future TBEX, which I used this year for Ireland.
This Year’s Experience: Donegal, Ireland
Donegal was magical, green, scenic, and honestly more my vibe compared to Dublin (though I still recommend seeing both).
- Pre-BEX Tour: I joined Walking on the Wild Side with Alpacas at Malin Head. It was hands-down one of my favorite travel experiences ever. We adventured with Wild Alpaca Way, each with our own alpaca (mine was named Boots), and hiked along the Knockamany Bens. Absolute highlight! Watch my Alpacas Experience here.
- On the Pre-Bex tour, we also visited sites like The Guns of Dunree, enjoyed lunch, and met the lovely owners behind the experience.
- Throughout the conference, I reconnected with familiar faces from last year, met new creators, and even met some of the brands I’ve worked with online in person — surreal and so rewarding.
- TBEX once again delivered on epic parties, food, and cultural showcases. It’s a perfect mix of learning, networking, and actually experiencing the host destination.
I already booked my ticket for next year in Kazakhstan. That’s how much I believe in TBEX!
Pre-TBEX Prep: Tips Before You Go
- Bring business cards + media kit: Essential for brand meetings.
- Network ahead of time: Join their Facebook group (they will send you the link once you have registered), connect with creators, or DM brands attending.
- Have a pitch ready: Know your value and what kind of partnerships you want.
During TBEX: What to Expect
Parties & events: Amazing food, culture, and networking opportunities.
Pre-BEX Tours: Unique activities that showcase the destination (cooking classes, hikes, cultural workshops).
Conference sessions: Pick and choose talks that inspire or challenge you.
Networking sessions: Appointments with brands and DMOs.
✨ Tip: The people at TBEX are welcoming, collaborative, and open-minded — which isn’t always the case at every conference. That’s one reason I love it so much.
Networking & Opportunities
- Meet brands face-to-face: It’s different than pitching online.
- Reconnect with peers: TBEX feels like a family — people return year after year.
- Offer value: Share your work, but also ask what they’re looking for.
- Follow-up after: Send emails, media kits, and thank you notes.
Post-TBEX Tips
- Use the days after to send follow-ups while conversations are fresh.
- Share your blog or content recaps (great way to stay top of mind).
- Look into FAM trips or partnerships announced before and at the event (I missed out on one this year due to flights, but it was still exciting to be invited).
Some Local Gems in Donegal 🥂
If you find yourself in Donegal, don’t miss these:
- Ulster Mead – ancient honey wine, surprisingly delicious.
- Little Mamma’s Gelato – creative flavors, super fresh.
- Mallow Mia – gourmet marshmallows, plus workshops.
- Kinnegar Brewing – local craft beer (great for sampling).
And of course:
- Sliabh Liag Cliffs 🌊 – three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher.
- Malin Head 🦙 – walk alpacas with Wild Alpaca Way.
- Glenveagh National Park & Castle 🌲.
- Fanad Head Lighthouse 🔦 – voted one of the world’s most beautiful.
- Hike Mount Errigal ⛰️ – tallest in Donegal.
- Drive the Wild Atlantic Way 🚗 – breathtaking coastal scenery.
✨ Pro tip: If you’re traveling between cities without a car, I used Daytrip, which offers a private driver and lets you add stops along the way. Luxe and convenient!
Pros & Cons of Attending TBEX
Pros:
- Fantastic networking with both creators and brands.
- Unique cultural immersion in the host destination.
- Open-minded, welcoming community.
- Access to press trips + new opportunities.
Cons:
- Can feel overwhelming with so many options (pace yourself) – you don’t have to attend every single thing, and if you don’t get to meet a brand – there’s still a chance to connect with them at the pre-bex tours or parties!
Final Thoughts
As a seasoned creator (10+ years in the industry), I attend TBEX less for the “beginner talks” and more for the connections, culture, and community.
TBEX is more than a conference, it’s an experience. You don’t just attend sessions, you discover a destination in a meaningful way, meet people who become friends, and leave inspired.
Whether you’re new to content creation or a seasoned pro, TBEX is absolutely worth it. I’ve walked away with new opportunities, unforgettable memories, and a stronger sense of community in this space.
So, will I attend again? Absolutely. Already booked!
Until next time,
Nancy
