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"I invite you to come to Nelson Mandela Bay not simply as an attendee, but as an active participant in the future of Skål International." | | | |
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Five Stars Are No Longer Enough
The New Luxury: Local Experiences, Authenticity & A Sense of Place
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DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF WORLD CONGRESS 2026
The countdown to Nelson Mandela Bay is on, and there is still time to register for this year’s Skål World Congress.
Our World Congress is much more than an annual meeting. It is an opportunity to reconnect with friends from around the world, strengthen the friendships that make our organisation so unique, exchange ideas, and come together to help shape the future of Skål International.
We invite all Skålleagues to join us in Nelson Mandela Bay from 29 September to 2 October 2026 for an inspiring global gathering filled with connection, friendship and memorable experiences.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of our Skål community in South Africa. Register today and get ready to experience World Congress 2026.
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Agenda AGA 2026
The Agenda for the 2026 Skål International Annual General Assembly which includes reports from the Executive Board, Auditors, Trustees of the Florimond Volckaert and Antonio Garcia del Valle Membership Development Funds, financial statements and candidates for election is available on the website Member’s Only section.
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In a world that can feel increasingly divided, it is worth pausing to remember what truly matters.
World President Andrés O. Hayes reflects on the people we love, the friendships we treasure and the humanity we share.
“Our beliefs may be different, but our humanity is shared.”
His message reminds us to choose compassion, understanding, forgiveness, friendship and love in how we respond to the world around us.
We invite you to read Andrés’ full reflection and consider the enduring values that connect Skålleagues across borders and cultures.
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The Global Skål Network, Now at Your Fingertips
Connect, Engage, and Make the Most of Your Membership
The digital evolution of our community has taken another important step forward with the launch of the new Skål International Networking App, a tool designed to keep members connected and make networking easier across the global Skål community. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices and has been created to strengthen connections, facilitate engagement, and enhance the overall member experience.
Furthermore, the Membership Benefits section has been improved with enhanced search functionality, making it easier for members to discover and access offers, discounts, and privileges available across the worldwide Skål network.
Download the App Today
| | Alternatively, Android users can search for “Skål International” directly in the Google Play Store. The app is developed by Inteligia. | Discover the Skål Networking App and connect with Skålleagues around the world. Read more here | | | | |
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Did You Know? Skål International Has Two Different Apps
Skål International Congress App
The Congress App is specifically designed for participants attending the Skål International World Congress. It provides everything delegates need in one place, including the event programme, session schedules, speaker information, venue details, real-time notifications, and direct communication with fellow attendees through the integrated chat feature. Available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Skål International Networking App
The Networking App is designed for year-round use by Skål International members worldwide. Its primary purpose is to strengthen professional connections across the global Skål community by providing access to member contacts, networking opportunities, news, events, and exclusive member benefits. It allows Skålleagues to stay connected and engaged long after congresses and meetings have ended.
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In today’s digital world, every social media page of Skål International Clubs represents the image and credibility of the global Skål movement. Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, YouTube and websites are often the first point of contact for prospective members and industry stakeholders. | | | | |
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Why the next generation of members, technology and global networking will shape Skål’s future
The world is not merely changing; it is accelerating.
Tourism is being transformed by artificial intelligence, shifting traveller expectations, emerging markets, digital ecosystems, and a generation that sees borders less as barriers and more as bridges.
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Mohan NSN
Vice President Skål International
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Training is not simply about gaining knowledge, it is about strengthening our Skål family, inspiring our members, and ensuring that every member understands the true value of belonging to the world’s largest network of tourism and hospitality professionals. | | | | |
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Welcome, Skål International Guwahati! | | We are delighted to welcome Skål International Guwahati, India (Club No. 759) to our global network. Congratulations to its 21 founding members on the establishment of this new Skål Club, and best wishes for a successful journey ahead. | | | | |
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The recent appointment of Rogers Martín Valencia Espinoza as Peru’s new Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism has been welcomed with optimism by various stakeholders in the national and international tourism sector, who recognise him as a professional with extensive experience in public administration, the private sector and organisations involved in tourism development. | | | | | |
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Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards
A Global Standard in Constant Evolution
Over more than two decades, the awards have evolved alongside the sector, adapting their categories to its changing needs.
The evaluation process, led by an independent panel from leading international organisations, ensures the rigour, transparency, and prestige of the awards.
Today, the awards represent a call to action for the sector to drive excellence and inspire change, towards a more balanced, inclusive, and environmentally responsible tourism model.
Explore the full list of 2026 entrants and their outstanding sustainable initiatives here
The awards ceremony will take place on 30 September in Nelson Mandela Bay (South Africa), during the opening of the 85th Skål World Congress.
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Tour carbon measurement just got easier.
Humí, a new tool from Sustainable Travel International, calculates the carbon footprint of a tour itinerary in seconds from an itinerary webpage URL or PDF. Users receive a detailed carbon footprint report showing total tour emissions and a breakdown for each activity, transfer, hotel stay, and meal. Using AI and built on Sustainable Travel International's 20+ years of expertise measuring tourism emissions, Humí automates what has traditionally required extensive manual research and spreadsheets, helping tour operators quickly understand their impact and take climate action.
Try Humí for free at sustainabletravel.org/humi.
[Measure Your Tour in Seconds]
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Grasse: The Perfume Capital of the World
A fragrant and immersive journey into the heart of the French Riviera
Between the Mediterranean Sea and the Southern Alps, the medieval city of Grasse leans gracefully against the mountains at 350 meters. With its mild climate and charming streets blending Genoese and Provencal architecture, Grasse, a classified City of Art and History, invites travelers to discover an exceptional destination.
| | 2026 0419 May Roses ©Domaine de la Cascade Parfumee | | | | |
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Invitation of Skål International Helsinki 90th Anniversary
Skål International Helsinki warmly invites Skål International members to join the celebrations of its 90th Anniversary, marking nine decades of friendship, networking, and support within the global Skål community.
IMPORTANT REGISTRATION LINKS AND CONTACTS
Flights Tour code: MCFI32
Accommodation: Hotel Arthur
Business Among Friends Sales Workshop 9.10
Gala Dinner 10.10 and/or weekend package
General enquiries: Aleksi Pitkänen, aleksi@sumama.fi
Hotel accommodation or the 90th Anniversary Gala Dinner: Tanja Tähtinen, tanja.tahtinen@hotelarthur.fi
Invoicing: Kari Halonen, kari.halonen@toolboxtravel.fi
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IFTM
15-17 September 2026, Paris Expo-Porte de Versailles
Skål International Paris is pleased to be a partner of the IFTM exhibition where local Skålleagues will be present on 15, 16 and 17 September 2026 at the stand located in Village France.
Come meet Skålleagues at the event for professionals to connect, discover, and find inspiration. At IFTM, discover the latest trends and new practices in the industry. Forge new relationships with other professionals in the field.
Order your complimentary badge here.
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CONNECTING TOURISM LEADERS WORLDWIDE
Skål International Las Vegas invites Tourism and hospitality professionals from around the globe to join them during IMEX Week for an evening of networking, collaboration, and global friendship. Discover what other chapters are accomplishing and exchange ideas that strengthen our industry’s future.
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Washington, DC: The Ultimate Destination for World-Class Experiences
Washington, DC, is far more than just a city of iconic monuments and storied history—it has exploded into a high-energy epicenter for conventions, meetings, sports, entertainment, and cultural events. This evolution isn't just changing the visitor experience; it is fueling a massive economic engine that is transforming the entire region.
As the nation’s capital and a premier destination for major events, Washington, DC has cemented its status as a heavyweight in the global tourism sector. Events DC, the official convention and sports authority of Washington, DC, plays a crucial role in powering local economic impact by orchestrating experiences that highlight the best of the District.
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Did you know?
Skål International members have access to an exclusive LinkedIn Group, the perfect place to connect, share insights, stay informed, and showcase content from your Clubs. Don’t miss out. Join us today and be part of the conversation!
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Please do not hesitate to contact communication@skal.org with any questions or suggestions for new editions. Thank you for our interest. | | |
DATA PROTECTION INFORMATION
This message is intended only for its addressee and may contain privileged or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that the use, disclosure, and/or unauthorized copy of this message is strictly prohibited under current law. If you have received this message in error, we ask that you please notify us immediately and proceed to delete this message. The personal data that appears herein and the data that SKÅL INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION – A.I.S.C. – SKÅL INTERNATIONAL keeps about you and your company are subject to current law on personal data protection.
This correspondence complies with current law on processing data for promotional, advertising, and marketing purposes. You are receiving this email as a member or contact of SKÅL INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION – A.I.S.C. – SKÅL INTERNATIONAL or because you have completed one of the forms on our website at www.skal.org. In accordance with the provisions of Article 22 of Law 34/2002 on Information Society Services and Electronic Commerce, Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council, which approves the General Data Protection Regulation, and Organic Law 3/2018, of December 5, on Personal Data Protection and the Guarantee of Digital Rights, you have the right to access, rectify, limit processing, delete, request portability, and oppose your personal data's processing, as well as to withdraw your consent by means of a written, signed request addressed to Skål International, P.O. Box 466, 29620, Torremolinos, Málaga (Spain) or by sending an email to our Data Protection Officer at dpd@skal.org. If you do not wish to receive any further communications from our Association you can unsubscribe by accessing your user profile on our website skal.org and checking the option “Unsubscribe from Skål International communication”.
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