Skål International will once again have a strong presence at FITUR Madrid, one of the world’s leading international tourism trade fairs, taking place from 21 to 24 January 2026. Skål members are warmly invited to visit the Skål Stand (10A14) and take part in a week of networking, business exchange, and international […]
Yearly archives: 2025
79 posts
Skål Madrid Celebrates Excellence at the 2025 Distinctions of Honour On a crisp December evening, the elegant rooms of Espacio Madrazo filled with the familiar sounds of Madrid’s tourism community—greetings between old friends, the quiet anticipation that accompanies meaningful recognition, and the unmistakable energy of a city whose cultural heartbeat resonates far […]
Honoured for her outstanding contributions to Skål in Hungary and Europe, including strengthening local engagement and supporting cross-border collaboration among Skålleagues. A Transformational Leader for Skål Hungary and Skål Europe Adrienne Tilli receives the Skål Europe Special Award for her exceptional leadership, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to revitalising Skål International Hungary […]
Recognised for her exceptional dedication to the growth of Skål Bucharest Club, contributing significantly to its revitalisation and visibility within the Skål network. A People-Centric Leader Revitalising Skål Bucharest Ana Maria Mădălina Nicolescu receives the Skål Europe Special Award for her outstanding contribution to strengthening the human dimension of Skål International Bucharest. […]
Honoured for his contribution to innovative quality management, using technology to ensure tourism services reach new levels of reliability and excellence. Transforming Quality Management Through Technology and Data Intelligence Luca Albano receives the Skål Europe Tourism Technology Award for his outstanding leadership in promoting Customer Alliance, one of the most advanced digital […]
Awarded for excellence in digital tourism, integrating modern digital tools to enhance visibility, connection, and user experience across tourism channels. Reimagining Hospitality with AI: The Nozio Welcome Guest Digital Concierge Massimo Trovò receives the Skål Europe Tourism Technology Award for his leadership in transforming digital hospitality through Nozio Welcome Guest, an AI-powered […]
Recognised for innovative work in advancing new technological approaches in tourism, contributing to smarter and more efficient visitor engagement. Dialogo: A Revolutionary Multichannel Platform for Hospitality Francesco Luconi, President of Nivula SA and a leading figure in Skål Lugano, receives the Skål Europe Tourism Technology Award for his creation of Dialogo — […]
Honoured for promoting new training approaches in tourism, leveraging technology to strengthen the skills and capabilities of tourism professionals. ARK CLAM: Reinventing Workforce Training for the Tourism Industry Carmen Stoll receives the Skål Europe Tourism Technology Award for her outstanding contribution to transforming professional training in tourism through ARK CLAM, an interactive […]
Awarded for his leadership in Augmented Reality tourism, demonstrating how AR can transform cultural interpretation and visitor immersion. Aumentur: Transforming Cultural Tourism Through Immersive Technology Francisco Javier Melero Rus receives the Skål Europe Tourism Technology Award for his pioneering work in applying Augmented Reality and immersive digital tools to enhance cultural tourism. […]
Recognised for exceptional creativity in applying Artificial Intelligence to tourism, reinventing the visitor experience for the digital age. Tootie: The First AI Conversational City Guide for Urban Tourism TootBus, part of the RATP Dev group and known worldwide for its low-emissions sightseeing buses, has launched a breakthrough innovation that is reshaping how […]
Awarded for her achievements in industrial heritage tourism, Enikő’s work preserves and revitalises sites that reflect Europe’s historical identity while fostering sustainable visitor engagement. Revitalising Industrial Heritage Through Community and Sustainability Enikő Fekete-Angyal is honoured for her outstanding contribution to reinventing Miskolc’s industrial legacy through an ambitious, sustainability-focused tourism transformation. Her work […]
Honoured for her work in Health Tourism, Annamária stands out for promoting wellness-based tourism initiatives that combine sustainability with wellbeing. Advancing a New Vision for Health Tourism Juhász Annamária is recognised with the Skål Europe Sustainable Tourism Award in Health Tourism for her exceptional contribution to redefining how wellness, sustainability and scientific […]
Awarded for excellence in heritage preservation tourism, Gergely’s projects highlight the indispensable link between cultural conservation and sustainable tourism development. Preserving Hungarian Heritage Through Creative Revival With the launch of the Paprika Revue House, Gergely Vigvári has pioneered an innovative cultural and gastronomic experience that revitalises Hungarian intangible heritage through a sustainable […]
Recognised for advancing Heritage Tourism, Dániel has played a significant role in protecting and promoting Europe’s cultural legacy through sustainable visitor experiences. Füstölgő Csóka – Where Heritage Meets Sustainability At the foot of the historic Csókakő Castle in Hungary, Young Skål member Dániel Kovács has created a pioneering hospitality concept that redefines […]
Honoured for her commitment to Accessible Tourism, Ileana’s work promotes inclusivity and ensures tourism becomes open and enriching for travellers of all abilities. Building a Truly Inclusive Tourism Ecosystem in Campania Ileana Esposito receives the Skål Europe Sustainable Tourism Award in Accessible Tourism for her exceptional leadership in transforming accessibility into a […]
Awarded for his pivotal role in the Lignano Pineta Project, Giorgio Ardito has demonstrated how local development, coastal regeneration and community engagement can enrich sustainable tourism models. As Chairman of the Board and legal representative of Società Lignano Pineta, Giorgio Ardito has led one of the most ambitious sustainability transitions currently underway […]
For the project: A Journey of Discovery in Art – Environmental Art Trail in Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark, one of Finland’s most distinctive natural and cultural destinations, is home to a visionary initiative that bridges art, heritage, community and sustainable tourism. For her leadership of the project A […]
Celebrating Innovation, Sustainability, Technology and Leadership Across Europe Skål Europe is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Skål Achievement Awards, recognising outstanding professionals, organisations, and innovators whose dedication and work exemplify the core values of Skål International: friendship, leadership, professionalism, and the advancement of responsible tourism. This year’s awards highlight […]
Following the elections held earlier this week, the newly elected Skål Europe Board convened its first meeting on December 8, 2025, via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting was to proceed with the co-option of additional directors, as foreseen by the statutes, to complete the Board’s initial structure for the 2025–2027 term. […]
The recent elections for the Skål Europe Board have concluded successfully, marking the beginning of a new term for 2025–2027. The voting process was conducted via email, with 77 ballots sent to eligible members. Of these, 4 notices were undeliverable, resulting in 73 eligible voters. A total of 33 ballots were submitted. […]
On 6 December, during the Skål Europe Elective AGA in Budapest, members will have the opportunity to discover a wine that quietly carries centuries of heritage into the future: Definitely Maybe, a Petillant Naturel crafted by the boutique winery Ori Marani. This tasting is generously offered by GeorgianWine.online, and personally curated on […]
Skal Europe Area Annual General Assembly 2025 The Annual General Assembly of Skål Europe is the central moment in our regional calendar, bringing together club leaders, delegates, and partners from across the continent. It is the time when we review our progress, celebrate achievements, and set the direction for the next two […]
Candidate for the position of Vice President Florin Tancu is a senior travel and tourism executive with over two decades of leadership experience in Romania’s corporate travel sector. His career spans general management, commercial strategy, organisational development, and partnership building at the highest level, including serving as Director General of WECO Travel […]
Candidate for the position of Vice President Ramon Adillón is a highly respected tourism professional with a long career spanning public administration, private sector leadership, international organisations, and tourism education. His experience includes senior roles within Paradores de Turismo, the Government of the Balearic Islands, and hotel groups across Spain and Europe. […]
Candidate for Secretary Ville Riihimäki is an experienced tourism professional with a broad international background across sustainability, executive management, transportation, hospitality, and education. His career spans roles such as CEO and Partner at Pink Tomato Travel, Chief Sustainability Officer at Menevä Oy, and senior operational and managerial positions in Finland, Norway, Malta, […]
Candidate for Treasurer Adrienne Tilli is an international tourism and wellness leader with more than 30 years of experience spanning tourism development, medical-wellness innovation, franchise management, and global networking. As Founder & CEO of VIP Global Networking LLC in the USA and Co-founder of the SBT-MED Biomedical Clinic network in Europe, she […]
Candidate for the position of PR & Communications Officer Alan Racic is a communications strategist and project management professional with over a decade of leadership experience across tourism, events, digital innovation, and organisational development. His career spans destination management, international market expansion, brand storytelling, and digital transformation, supported by extensive PR and […]
Candidate for the position of President As candidate for President of Skål Europe for the 2025–2027 term, I am standing on a vision of continuity and intelligent growth. Over the past years, Skål Europe has become the most dynamic regional committee in our organisation, strengthening its visibility, communication, and cohesion. In my […]
During the 2025 TTG Travel Experience in Rimini, Skål Roma International and Skål Italy hosted a moment of remembrance dedicated to Dr David Fontanella, who left us one year ago. The gathering brought together Skålleagues from across Europe, representatives of ITA Airways, and many friends who had worked with David over the […]
On Saturday, 4 October 2025, under the bright Roman sun, the Skål Roma Golf Challenge took place in the magnificent setting of the Fioranello Golf Club, located just a few minutes from the historic Appian Way and surrounded by ancient Roman countryside. Now in its fourth edition, the tournament has become one […]
The Annual General Assembly (AGA) of Skål Europe will be held on Saturday, 6 December 2025, from 14:00 to 17:00, at the prestigious Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Budapest. In accordance with the statutes, this Assembly will also mark the renewal of the Board of Skål Europe, which is elected every two […]
In December 2025, Skål International Hungary will proudly celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Skål Budapest. This milestone event will bring together Skålleagues from across Europe and beyond, combining cultural discovery, festive traditions, and institutional highlights in the heart of Hungary. The Jubilee Programme will guide participants through some of the most emblematic […]
On 19 December, Skål International Club – Prague will mark its thirtieth year with a gala in the Boccaccio Ballroom of the Grand Hotel Bohemia. It’s an elegant setting for a story that began in 1995, when the club was founded with the support of Skål Vienna and in the presence of […]
Tourism is currently undergoing a period of transformation. Communities and destinations need to develop in ways that strengthen local society, the environment, and business value. In this context, sustainability, collaboration, and transparency become crucial. Skål Europe spoke with Stefan Pettersson, member of Skål Stockholm, co-founder of Gameng AB, and a professional with […]
Sustainability has become one of the defining themes for the future of tourism. In Europe, new frameworks such as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) are already reshaping how businesses operate, while discussions around the VSME (Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) aim to include companies of every size. Skål […]
Across Europe, tourism institutions are becoming more influential — not only at the national level but also regionally and within the European Union itself. As strategies are debated and policies designed to guide the sector’s future, a fundamental question emerges: Is Skål International at the table where decisions are made? The experience […]
TTG Travel Experience is the leading Italian event dedicated to promoting global tourism. For three days, the city of Rimini will once again be the beating heart of the travel industry, bringing together international operators and leading players from across the sector, including tourism boards, tour operators, travel agencies, airlines, transport companies, […]
Skål Mexico in Action Skål Mexico is setting an inspiring example in sustainability through a series of concrete actions that combine education, local engagement, and environmental responsibility. Among its many initiatives, one in particular deserves international recognition for its symbolic and practical value: the return of marine elements to their natural habitat. […]
On the occasion of the Austrian Skål Day 2025, held at the elegant Hotel Sailer in Innsbruck, members and friends of Skål International gathered to celebrate a remarkable moment in the history of Austrian and European Skål: the conferring of the Skål Tourism Quality Award 2025 to Professor Mario Rehulka, Honorary President […]
A personal reflection on driving, sustainability, and all the small choices that matter. I don’t know what it’s like where you live. Maybe you’re in a city where buses come every ten minutes, where bike lanes are everywhere, and owning a car isn’t really needed. But in many parts of the world, […]
A Global Workshop Series on Sustainable Tourism, Events & Hospitality Skål Europe is proud to unveil a new initiative within the framework of the Skål Europe Academy, our dedicated learning platform created to support professional excellence and innovation across the tourism industry. In a time when sustainability is no longer optional but […]
On 22 May 2025, Skål Europe hosted an open consultation meeting with Club Presidents and representatives from across the continent, joined by several international guests. The objective was to initiate a transparent dialogue on the future direction of Skål International, in response to proposals concerning governance, digital infrastructure, and the evolving role […]
On the evening of 22 May 2025, the Skål Europe leadership convened a momentous online meeting that brought together more than 60 Skålleagues worldwide, including multiple members of the Skål International Executive Committee. The goal was as ambitious as it was necessary: to open a transparent and inclusive consultation with the Clubs […]
A conversation between Paolo Bartolozzi and Tito Livio Mongelli of Skål Europe In recent years, the European Union has led a global push toward more sustainable, transparent, and accountable governance — not only for businesses but increasingly for associations and civil society organizations as well. Central to this shift is the concept […]
“What if your guests could help fund your hotel’s solar panels?” A preview of the June 25 webinar – part of the Skål Europe Academy At Skål Europe, we believe in spotlighting tourism innovations that are both visionary and practical. That’s why our next Academy webinar focuses on a startup that is […]
Supporting Migrants During Tianguis Turístico 2025 Empathy and Responsibility: Skål International Mexico Supports Migrant Communities in Tijuana In the vibrant setting of Tianguis Turístico 2025, Mexico’s leading tourism event, a powerful act of solidarity quietly unfolded.Skål International Mexico, together with the humanitarian foundation Cooking Without Borders, and under the coordination of Skål […]
Local Action, Global Impact: Skål Kenya Coast Leads the Way with Monthly Beach Cleanups Sustainability is a shared journey, and Skål International Kenya Coast is proving that every step counts. Under the leadership of Janet Chamia — Club President and active member of the Skål International Sustainability Committee — the club organizes […]
Artificial intelligence has arrived in our professional lives not with a grand revolution, but quietly—through helpful tools that write emails, translate documents, draft articles, and manage content. In tourism, especially within a diverse and multilingual network like Skal Europe, these tools have already begun to lighten our workload. They save us time, […]
On April 8th, 2025, Skal Europe hosted an inspiring and highly informative webinar as part of the Skal Academy series: “Unlocking Opportunities with Erasmus+: A Toolkit for Skal Clubs and Tourism Professionals” The session brought together participants from Europe, Africa, and Asia, highlighting the global relevance of the Erasmus+ programme—not only for […]
Innovation for a Smarter, Sustainable Future Skal Europe is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new recognition initiative: the Skal Europe Tourism Technology Awards, dedicated to excellence in the use of technology for innovation, sustainability, and positive impact in the tourism industry. As the tourism sector faces rapid transformation, technology plays […]
Tourism must be part of the solution, not the problem. With this vision in mind, Skal Europe continues its annual tradition of rewarding excellence in sustainable tourism through the Skal Europe Sustainability Awards 2025. Now in its fourth edition, the Awards aim to showcase and support the most innovative and impactful sustainability […]
Honouring the Champions of Skal’s Future Skal Europe is proud to launch the Special Awards 2025, a unique recognition dedicated to the people who shape the future of our organization from within. These awards celebrate individual Skal Members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and creativity in strengthening Skal’s presence and values […]
Vinicio Borsi at the Economic Forum Giannini Chiavari, Italy – April 2025At the prestigious Economic Forum Giannini, held in Chiavari in memory of the renowned banker and founder of the Bank of America, Vinicio Borsi, Vice President of Skål International Roma, and Hospitality innovation manager at Swisse based DB Strategy took the […]
Skål Kenya Coast Leads by Example Mtwapa Creek, Kenya – 12 April 2025One Skål club has shown how local initiatives can drive real environmental change in a world where climate action can no longer be delayed. On Saturday, Skål International Kenya Coast, with the active involvement of its Executive Committee, led a […]
A European Invitation to a Weekend of Friendship and Elegance In the autumn of 2025, as the leaves turn golden in the heart of Europe, Skål International Prague will celebrate a remarkable milestone: thirty years of connecting tourism professionals in one of the most historic and captivating cities of the continent. On […]
In the heart of the Austrian Alps, nestled within the picturesque landscape of Salzburger Land, Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort stands as a model of sustainable tourism and visionary development. On a recent visit, Skal Europe President Franz Heffeter presented the Skal Europe Sustainability Award Certificate to hotelier Albert Ebner and his […]
Skal International Roma is delighted to present the official program of the much-anticipated European Friendship Skal Meeting, first announced during the AGA 2024. This exceptional event will occur from March 14 to 16, 2025, in the stunning setting of Rome, during the Jubilee year. It will be a unique opportunity to strengthen […]
Skal Europe is pleased to share this exclusive interview, kindly provided by Skal Croatia, featuring Damjana Domanovac—director and owner of Croatia’s largest tourism fair, PLACE2GO, and a dedicated member of Skal Club Zagreb. In this conversation with Alan Racic, she discusses the evolution of PLACE2GO, its impact on the tourism industry, and […]
A Green Future for Golf Tourism Golf tourism in Europe is experiencing rapid growth, with the market generating approximately €7.25 billion in revenue in 2023 and projected to reach €14.5 billion by 2035, reflecting an annual growth rate of 7%. While golf has historically been seen as a resource-intensive sport, requiring vast […]
Save the date—October 4, 2025—and get ready for a unique experience on and off the green in the heart of Rome. A Tournament That Unites Golf and Tourism The Rome International Skål Golf Challenge 2025 is set to take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the prestigious Circolo di Golf Fioranello, […]
Where Tourism, Tradition, and Friendship Meet in Innsbruck Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck will set the stage for Austrian Skål Day 2025, an event designed to unite Skål members in a celebration of networking, recognition, and cultural exploration. Taking place from June 14-15, 2025, this gathering is more […]
How Unchecked Visitor Influx Drains Cities and Strains Communities Tourism is often celebrated as an economic driver, bringing business to local economies and promoting cultural exchange. However, when visitor numbers surpass the capacity of a destination, the result is overtourism. This phenomenon leaves cities grappling with skyrocketing public service costs, infrastructure strain, […]
A Platform for Clubs and Members to Grow, Gain Visibility, and Engage in the Global Tourism Network On March 6, 2025, the Skål Europe Board held a key meeting with European Directors of Skål International and Presidents of European Clubs to reinforce its mission: serving Skål clubs and their members by providing […]
Recognising Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Skål Europe is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 Skål Europe Sustainability Awards, an initiative designed to celebrate and recognise the outstanding contributions of Skålleagues across Europe in promoting sustainable tourism. These awards aim to highlight innovative, impactful, and ethical tourism projects that align with […]
Exclusive Interview with Alan Racic As the PLACE2GO Tourism Fair in Zagreb approaches, we spoke with Alan Racic, Vice President of Skål Club Zagreb, to gain insights into this exciting initiative and its significance for Skål International members. Skål at PLACE2GO: A Unique Networking Opportunity Q: Alan, what makes PLACE2GO a special […]
Understanding the Green Michelin Star and Its Criteria In 2020, the Michelin Guide introduced the Green Star to honour restaurants that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainable gastronomy. This recognition is awarded to establishments that go beyond culinary excellence by integrating responsible environmental practices into their operations. Michelin inspectors assess several key aspects […]
Skål Napoli at the Round Table on the Future of Tourism in Campania On February 24, 2025, the Villa Avellino Historical Residence in Pozzuoli (Naples) will host the Round Table “Towards the D.M.O.”, an event that brings together key tourism stakeholders in Campania to discuss the development of structured Destination Marketing Organizations […]
A Toast to Global Connections! 📅 Date: March 6, 2025⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM📍 Location: ITB Berlin, Hub 27, Booth 203 (Düsseldorf Airport) ITB Berlin is the beating heart of the global tourism industry, where professionals from all corners of the world gather to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and discuss […]
10 European High-End Restaurants Championing Organic Cuisine In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, high-end restaurants across Europe are embracing organic food like never before. These top-tier establishments are proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand, offering gastronomic experiences that celebrate natural ingredients and ethical sourcing. One […]
How Hospitality Can Embrace the Green Revolution In an era where travellers are increasingly aware of their environmental footprint, the demand for organic food within the tourism sector is at an all-time high. Visitors are seeking authentic, healthy, and sustainable culinary experiences, making organic food a key element in the evolution of […]
An Evening of Global Tourism Networking On March 5, 2025, Berlin will host one of the most anticipated evenings in the tourism industry again: the Skål International ITB Night. Set in the elegant Hotel TITANIC Chaussee Berlin, this event promises an unforgettable gathering of tourism professionals from across the globe. Organized by […]
A Unique Alpine Golf Experience The 7th SKAL Alpen Golf Challenge, set to take place from October 12 to October 14, 2025, promises an exciting blend of sporting excellence and leisure activities in the stunning Bavarian Alps. Hosted at the Parkhotel Wallgau, this event offers a perfect combination of competition, relaxation, and […]
Skål International Germany is excited to welcome all European Skålleagues to Deutscher Skål Tag 2025, taking place in Munich from March 21 to 23, 2025. Organized by Skål International Munich, this event offers an excellent opportunity for networking, cultural immersion, and professional engagement. Event Highlights The German Skål Day 2025 features a […]
Opportunities for European Restaurants and Hotels The Growing Market for Organic Food in Europe The European organic food market is undergoing a significant transformation, fueled by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and a willingness to invest in high-quality food. What was once a niche segment has become a dominant force in the […]
Why Going Organic is a Game-Changer for Your Business If you operate in the hospitality, restaurant, or catering (HoReCa) sector, integrating certified organic food and wine into your business isn’t just a passing trend—it’s an opportunity to redefine your brand, attract new customers, and increase your revenue. Today’s consumers care more about […]
A Game Changer for Tourism, Hospitality, and ESG Compliance The European Union has long been at the forefront of sustainable agriculture and food production. With the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2018/848, a new era for organic farming and its impact on the tourism and hospitality sectors has begun. This comprehensive framework reinforces […]
Join the Next Skal Europe Academy Webinar on April 8, 2025 In today’s fast-evolving tourism industry, attracting and retaining top talent is more critical than ever. Skal International, a global network of tourism professionals, is uniquely positioned to turn this challenge into an opportunity. The next Skal Europe Academy webinar will explore […]
Skal International Rome is proud to unveil the official program for the much-anticipated European Friendship Skal Meeting, first announced during the AGA 2024. This special event will take place in the magnificent setting of Rome from March 14 to 16, 2025, during the Jubilee Year—a unique opportunity to strengthen the bonds of […]