I’ve never been to one of STA’s series of travel talks, so I didn’t have much idea what to expect from last night’s Latin America themed session in their London Victoria branch. I certainly didn’t expect free beer and tortilla chips, a capoeira demonstration, a crazy STA lass wearing a sombrero and a fake tash, and a chat-up-line-heavy Spanish lesson. Which is what we got. And more.

It was good to hear a bunch of well-informed and passionate folk give practical advice, but just as good to get a sense of each person’s genuine love for Latin America, through their own personal stories of exploring the region and its people. Presenters from Prom Peru, i-to-i meaningful adventure tours, GAP Adventures, and of course STA staff themselves discussed must-see sights, community projects, language, food and health advice with a 40-strong gang of prospective adventurers who really got into the spirit of things. Personally, I am now particularly determined to visit Peru, which has 3,000 festivals each year, and Buenos Aires, which many of the presenters chose as one of their favourite cities in the world.

The exclusive money off deals and the goody bags were great, but to be honest the nicest thing was the enthusiasm and openness of it all, and the chance to chat and ask questions in an informal atmosphere. I even managed to jump up, plug STA travelbuzz, and invite anyone who had been inspired to travel with STA to become one of our STA Explorers.

The next talks are on round the world travel, in Kingston on 24th June and Glasgow 8th July - you can read more and book here. I won’t be able to make them, but let me know if you can so I can link to any photos or reviews. It’s definitely worth it. Did I mention the free beer?

by Molly on 12 June 2008
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