FITUR: The International Tourism Trade Fair FITUR is the leading global event in the tourism sector, recognized as the primary trade fair for both inbound and outbound international markets. As the premier platform for the tourism industry, FITUR brings together professionals from across the globe, providing unmatched opportunities for networking, business development, […]
Yearly archives: 2024
50 posts
Dear Friends, Looking back on 2024, it was the first year with the new Governance System, with committees working more or less intensively on their topics but with lots of enthusiasm everywhere. This is a great result anyway. Motivation is the motor of innovation.In Skal Europe, we experienced the same positive spirit. The […]
Skal Europe is pleased to receive and publish the following article from Skal Roma. Skal Roma and the Skal network are working together to promote high-quality golf events and attract premium sports tourism. The Lazio region, renowned for its historical and cultural heritage, is increasingly establishing itself as a top golf destination […]
On Saturday, 28 September 2024, Skal Europe held its Annual General Assembly online, bringing together members from across the continent to reflect on the year’s achievements, share insights, and outline plans. The virtual gathering was a testament to Skal Europe’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation within the tourism industry, despite the […]
During the Skal Europe online Annual General Assembly, President Franz Heffeter proudly presented two Special Awards that recognized outstanding achievements in club revitalization and membership growth within the Skal Europe network. These awards celebrate the extraordinary dedication, leadership, and innovative strategies demonstrated by two remarkable individuals who have breathed new life into […]
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Michael Meyer, the driving force behind the impressive growth of Skal Club Düsseldorf. As President, Michael has infused the club with renewed energy and enthusiasm, setting a benchmark for membership development. His innovative strategies and active engagement with the Skal community have made Düsseldorf […]
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Stéphane Jayet, the driving force behind the remarkable revitalization of the Skal Club of Lausanne. Once on the brink of closure, the club has transformed into a thriving and vibrant community under Stéphane’s leadership. As Vice President of the Swiss Travel Association and an […]
Recognizing Excellence in Sustainable Tourism On 28 September 2024, Skal Europe proudly held its online Annual General Assembly, where four distinguished awards were presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in promoting sustainability within the tourism industry. These awards celebrate the innovative efforts, community engagement, and commitment to preserving […]
Today, we are honoured to speak with Pilar Gómez Reina, a dynamic leader in the tourism sector of Cádiz and Andalusia and a long-standing member of Skål International Cádiz since 2012. As the driving force behind the first edition of the Skål International Tourism Forum in Cádiz, Pilar has been a passionate […]
Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Kommerzialrat Albert Ebner, the owner and manager of the “Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort,” a family-run establishment that has successfully embraced sustainability and innovation to create a unique and environmentally friendly experience in the heart of Hintersee. With a rich history dating back over 240 […]
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ornella Naccari, a passionate member of Skal Roma and the visionary behind “A New Way to Discover the Venetian Territories with Shakespeare.” Her innovative project combines theatre, history, and sustainable tourism to create immersive experiences that bring Shakespeare’s works to life in the very […]
A Must-Attend Event for Golf Enthusiasts in Lignano On Saturday, October 19th, 2024, the prestigious FVG International Skål Golf Challenge 2024 will take place at the renowned Lignano Golf Club, organized by the Skal Club Friuli Venezia Giulia. This exceptional tournament offers golf enthusiasts and Skal members the chance to participate in […]
An Unforgettable Blend of Golf, Hospitality, and Alpine Tradition From September 8th to 10th, 2024, the stunning Golf Club of Alta Badia in Corvara/Colfosco hosted the sixth edition of the highly anticipated Alpen Skal Golf Challenge. This annual event brought together members of the Skal Alpine Clubs from Tyrol, Garmisch, Zell am […]
On October 12th, 2024, the highly anticipated Rome International Skal Golf Challenge will take place at the prestigious Fioranello Golf Club. This exclusive event, now in its third edition, promises to be a perfect blend of sportsmanship, networking, and support for charitable causes, making it a must-attend day for golf enthusiasts and […]
A Great Skal Success Story Six years is a significant milestone, a time to reflect on achievements and the journey that brought them to fruition. For Skal Nice Côte d’Azur, the past six years have been a transformative period marked by extraordinary growth and success. When Nicolle Martin took on the role […]
An Exclusive Interview with Moritz Freise, President of Skål International Berlin. The Tourism Innovation Night is set to be a groundbreaking event, uniting the brightest minds in tourism to address the industry’s most pressing challenges. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, this event is not just a conversation starter but […]
In the remote and captivating wilderness of Salla, East Lapland, Finland, conservation efforts have gained new and exciting momentum as the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss become increasingly pressing. Local organizations like Matkalle Sallaan ry, in partnership with the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation, are leading the charge to protect Salla’s […]
Enhancing Financial Stability and Productivity In this exclusive interview, we sit down with NSN Mohan, Director of Skal International, to discuss his vital work in organizing and optimizing the Finance Committee. Under his leadership, the committee has set ambitious goals to ensure financial stability, increase productivity, and strengthen financial control within the […]
This interview provides a comprehensive overview of the “Champions of Sustainability” program, highlighting its objectives, implementation plan, and the crucial role of Sustainability Champions within Skål International. The program’s emphasis on communication, collaboration, and practical projects aims to embed a culture of sustainability within the travel and tourism industry, ensuring a responsible […]
The Skal International Finance Committee plays a critical role in managing the financial operations and ensuring the economic stability of Skal International. The committee comprises experienced professionals who maintain transparency, accountability, and effective financial management. This article details the committee’s recent activities, key discussions, and ongoing efforts to achieve economic stability. Transparency, […]
Skal Europe: Bertrand, cruising has often been seen as a major polluter. How is the industry addressing sustainability? Bertrand Petyt: It’s true, cruising does impact the environment. However, the industry is leading in innovative sustainable practices. Although we represent a small fraction of the global fleet, around 80% of maritime sustainable innovations […]
To fellow Skålleagues across Canada and worldwide, by now most of you will have heard about the destructive forest fire that has burnt about 30% of the historic Rockies town of Jasper, Alberta. As the President of the Skål Canadian Rockies club, which includes members from Jasper, I would like to give […]
The United Nations observes the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons annually on July 30th. This day highlights the global issue of human trafficking, which exploits millions for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and other abuses. It emphasizes the need for international cooperation to combat trafficking, support victims, and dismantle trafficking networks. Skal […]
The 3E Conference held in Venice, featuring both in-person and online participation, brought together industry leaders to discuss the critical pillars of the Economy, Environment, and Ethics in the tourism sector. With prominent speakers like Skål Venice President Stefania Stea, Skål Europe Vice President Paolo Bartolozzi, and Tito Livio Mongelli, President of […]
Dates: 16-21 October 2024 – Location: Izmir, Türkiye – President’s Invitation Dear Skålleagues, We are overjoyed to invite you to the 83rd Skål International World Congress, from October 16 to 21, 2024, in the vibrant city of Izmir, Turkey. Izmir, renowned for its historical significance, cultural richness, and stunning coastline, is set […]
We are delighted to introduce the Skål International Training & Education and Florimond Volckaert Fund Awareness Committee. Skål International Director for Region 11, Mr Kevin Rautenbach, oversaw this committee. The Deputy Director co-chairs it for Region 11, Mr William Oh, and Skål International’s Past President Ms. Lavonne Wittmann, who represents Region 14. […]
Venice, Rome, and Munich: Strengthening Ties and Fostering Dialogue Annette Cardenas, President of Skal International, recently concluded a successful European tour, visiting prominent clubs in Venice, Rome, and Munich. The tour was marked by fruitful discussions on crucial topics concerning the future of Skal, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to transparency, membership growth, […]
As the corporate travel market in Europe increasingly prioritizes Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, small, often family-run hotels face the challenge of aligning with these new standards. This shift towards ESG compliance is not merely a trend but a regulatory and market-driven necessity. For small hotels, embracing ESG principles offers a […]
On May 7, a highly successful webinar focused on economic sustainability and the EU Directive on Greenwashing. The event saw a large turnout, with participants from various sectors keen to engage in this crucial discussion. Crucial Topics Covered The webinar explored key topics vital for both consumers and businesses: Interactive Engagement A […]
A Comprehensive Cost Analysis of Water Scarcity and Its Impacts on Tourism and Agriculture Alarm in Various European Regions: Scarcity of Rain and Depleting Reservoirs The European Drought Observatory (EDO) and the European Environment Agency (EEA) highlight several countries that are particularly vulnerable to drought conditions. Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Greece, and […]
Renewable energy has become a cornerstone of sustainable development in Europe, as countries and businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprints and combat climate change. Among the various renewable energy sources, geothermal energy stands out due to its consistent availability and minimal environmental impact. This article explores the use of geothermal energy […]
Improving energy efficiency in the buildings of the European tourism industry is crucial for reducing environmental impact and operating costs. This article examines the required investments, relevant EU regulations and financing options, the specific challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in holiday destinations, strategies for SMEs to overcome these challenges, […]
The European tourism industry, heavily reliant on air, ground, and sea transport, significantly contributes to climate change. This article delves into the environmental impact of these transportation modes, highlights the initiatives by companies to mitigate their emissions, and presents both the challenges and advancements in making tourism more sustainable. It also addresses […]
When a Global Network helps in times of crisis. A mother’s desperate cry for help in Sweden through social media led to an incredible chain reaction. Her son, who was in my daughter’s parallel class in high school, was in a terrible traffic accident in Thailand and urgently needed blood. His blood […]
Introduction Climate change is a pressing reality with profound impacts on various sectors, including tourism. As Europe grapples with increasing temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and rising sea levels, the tourism industry faces substantial economic challenges. Among these, the escalating cost of insurance for tourism-related businesses is significant. This article delves into the […]
We received and published this economic research by Vicepresident Paolo Bartolozzi about the challenges for the European tourism industry, knowing that the Paris Treaty temperature limits are already overcome. The discourse on sustainable tourism practices within the Skal Europe Area Committee reflects a multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate […]
Skal Europe Area Committee serves as a dynamic forum, fostering collaboration and innovation among European Clubs within Skal International. While not a governance structure, it provides a platform for Clubs and National Committees to engage in various activities and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism practices and facilitating business opportunities. Here’s how […]
April 12 to 14 the combined meeting of Skal Salzburg and Skal Europe took place. Hotel Pitter Imlauer where also the official 70 Years Celebration took place and Hotel Wyndham Grand gave phantastic offers for the rooms and Skal Austria and Skal Salzburg supported the cost for participation. The concept of an […]
Free Online Webinar on Economic Sustainability: EU Directive on Greenwashing In a world increasingly attuned to environmental concerns, discerning genuine sustainability efforts from mere greenwashing has become paramount. To shed light on this crucial issue, a free online webinar titled “EU Directive on Greenwashing” is slated for May 7th, 2024, at 3:00 […]
Sabrina Calvagno of Nivula captivated attendees with her insightful seminar on Hotel Online Reputation Management during the Skal Europe Academy on April 9, 2024. Delving into the significance of review ratings, Calvagno explored the tangible value of each percentage point improvement and the potential revenue growth associated with enhancing a hotel’s ratings. […]
In the heart of the tourism industry lies a paradox: while our travels connect us with the world and its diverse cultures, they also contribute to the environmental challenges we face today. For us at Skål, the world’s largest organization for tourism professionals, this dilemma is particularly pronounced. Many of us spend […]
In the ongoing pursuit of fostering a more equitable and inclusive society, Skal Europe Academy organized a webinar on “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Europe” on March 12, 2024. This event, conducted in English, aimed to delve into the challenges, tools, and opportunities pertinent to gender equality in Europe. With more […]
Hotel Online Reputation Management: Enhancing Guest Satisfaction and Revenue April 9, 2024 – 6:00 p.m. CET In today’s digitally connected world, the online reputation of hotels plays a pivotal role in attracting guests and driving revenue. Skal Europe Academy, in collaboration with Nivula, is proud to present an exclusive webinar on Hotel […]
A Skal Europe Academy Webinar Exploring Challenges, Tools, and Opportunities with Key Expert Insights. To foster a more equitable and inclusive society, Skal Europe is pleased to announce an upcoming webinar focusing on “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Europe.” This informative event, hosted by Skal Europe Academy, will take place on […]
Over 200 worldwide participants in the first Skal Academy webinar of 2024, in collaboration with Time2Act project (Susana Leal – Instituto Politecnico de Santarem) within the Erasmus + framework. The full webinar Slides
Rethinking Portion Sizes for Sustainability It was a sunny afternoon when we decided to have lunch at a newly opened restaurant in town, known for its innovative cuisine and charming decor. With a light hunger and a strong desire not to contribute to unnecessary food waste, I thought it would be the […]
Updated Regulations and Evaluation Criteria for the Skal Europe Sustainable Tourism Awards In the pursuit of fostering sustainable tourism practices in Europe, Skal Europe has continually evolved its regulations and evaluation criteria for the Skal Europe Sustainable Tourism Awards. The latest updates, implemented in 2024, reflect a heightened emphasis on aligning projects […]
Honoring Innovation and Commitment to Sustainable Tourism As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable practices across all industries, the tourism sector stands as a pivotal arena for change. In line with this ethos, Skal Europe is proud to announce the upcoming Skal Europe Sustainability Awards 2024, a platform dedicated […]
Corvara, Alta Badia: Golf and Networking amidst the Breathtaking Dolomite Panoramas. The prestigious SKAL ALPEN GOLF CHALLENGE is set to make its return to the heart of the magnificent Dolomites. The sixth edition of this flagship event is scheduled to take place from September 8th to 10th, 2024 in Corvara, amidst the […]
Skal Roma and Arena di Verona have extended their agreement for 2024, granting all worldwide Skal members a 30% discount on seats in the Orchestra or Tribuna areas (as chosen by the member) until sold out for the following performances and dates of the upcoming summer season. Antonio Percario, Membre d’Honneur of […]