Namaste World Meeting Report

Earlier this month, Tablers from across the world came together in India for Namaste 2025 – the Round Table International World Meeting. Among them was Bournemouth Tabler Phil Timings, who had the chance to experience his very first international Table event. From the moment he landed in Delhi to the last toast of the gala dinner, Phil discovered the true spirit of fellowship, adventure, and global connection that makes Round Table so unique. Here’s his story.

“Hi, I’m Phil, an active Tabler in Bournemouth RT5, past president and also previously in Tavistock 661 in Devon. Earlier this month, I was lucky enough to win the draw for a ticket to Namiste World Meeting 2025, the Round Table International AGM. Having never attended an international Table event, this was an exciting opportunity that has propelled me into a new appreciation of just how great our organisation is, both at home and in many other corners of the globe!

“Initially, I was a little nervous, as I was the only representative from my Table and Area. However, on arrival to Delhi, I was immediately met by the hosts and introduced myself to a number of other people arriving at the airport. Each from a different part of the globe, here to represent their countries for the meetings ahead. During the coach ride to the hotel, we shared laughs and shock at the state of the road network around New Delhi, by the journeys end, we were old friends that had just met!

“The event itself was amazing, a combination of tours, meetings, networking with like minded people, getting an insight into other cultures and hearing about the great work our organisation does globally. There was time to chill, plenty of activities, and a relentless supply of curry and beers 24/7. I thrust myself into the action, attending a pool party, a day tour to Old Delhi, observed the RTI World Meeting, enjoyed the nightclub, nations night, and the final gala dinner. Each of which seemed to come with its own after party too!

“Throughout the event, I was made to feel welcome by guests and hosts, especially the group of Tablers representing RTBI. A special shout out to James, our IRO, and Adam, our regional Chairman. They did us all proud and made sure we were as organised as any Tabler can be at a nation's night... 

“If anyone out there hasn't yet attended an international meeting, I can not recommend it enough. I've returned with new friends, great memories, loads of pins and coins exchanged and only a mild case of Delhi belly! I'm now looking at Italy in 2026 and ot course it's coming home in 2027!"

YiT

Phil Timings,

Bournemouth Round Table No.5

Thanks to Phil for his event summary. If, like him, you are looking to attend your first international meeting, you can find all RTI event details on our Events page here. 

You can also find a list of International Association meeting dates via this webpage: https://round-table.org/rti-events/  

For details on funding available for international trips, including number(euro) meetings, check out this blog post from International Relations Officer James: https://www.roundtable.co.uk/post/travel-funds-for-tablers