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Connecting Tourism Leaders: Skål International Showcases Unity and Vision from Cusco to Antalya. | | | |
Skål International World Congress 2025, la crème de la crème in altitude. | | | | |
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| | Skål International World Congress 2025 | The 84th Skål International Annual World Congress was held from 25 to 30 September 2025 in the heart of the Andes, hosted for the first time in history by Skål International Cusco, Peru, under the leadership of its President María del Pilar Salas Moreno. | | With over 300 participants from more than 30 countries, the congress was a vibrant melting pot of cultures, camaraderie, and global tourism business opportunities. | | | | |
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The results of the elections for the positions of Vice President/President-Elect, Directors, Auditors, and the distinction of Membre d’Honneur, were announced during the Annual General Assembly held in Cusco, Peru on 27 September 2025.
The elected members will assume office on 1 January 2026 for a two-years term of office, except for the Latin America Director, who took office immediately to fill the vacancy in Region 4.
In the case of Region 11 (Asia), the call for nominations and the election of the Director were conducted following the Annual General Assembly.
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| | Updated Skål International Twinning Programme | We are proud to announce the renewal of our Twinning Programme, a powerful initiative that fosters collaboration, friendship and mutual growth between clubs around the world. | | | | |
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We are pleased to announce that Skål International has implemented a Compliance Programme, a structured system of policies, procedures, and practices designed to ensure that our organisation operates in accordance with the law, adheres to internal policies, and upholds the highest ethical standards.
The purpose of this Compliance Programme is to prevent, detect, and respond to any potential criminal conduct by members of the organisation, its governing bodies, or its employees that could give rise to the organisation’s legal liability.
Its ultimate objective is to protect Skål International and to assure our members that the Association’s operations fully comply with legal and ethical standards. In doing so, we promote a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability, further strengthening the reputation and credibility of Skål International.
Our Compliance Programme covers all areas of the organisation and includes key protocols such as the Protocol for the Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing, a Whistleblower Channel available on the Skål International website, and a comprehensive Code of Ethics for the organisation. All members can access these protocols and related materials in the members-only area at our corporate website skal.org.
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Skål International History
Did you know...?
On December 15, 1937, under the direction of Geo Thiry, Press Commissioner of the Association Internationale des Skål Clubs (A.I.S.C.), the first internal newsletter was published. This marked a turning point in member communication and unity.
In this inaugural issue, President H. Lesieur, also head of the Paris Skål Club, wrote an Open Letter to Members, describing Skål as a “great family” and the newsletter as the best way to stay informed about each other and Club activities.
| This information has been extracted from several historical books and news available on skal.org/history | |
The newsletter also featured a letter from Secretary-General Dr. Arnold Ith, highlighting the expansion of Skål into new regions such as Belgrade, Budapest, Prague, and Singapore, and announcing Italy’s upcoming membership during the 1938 London Congress. He envisioned Skål as a unifying force in international tourism, connecting professionals across continents.
This foundational publication laid the groundwork for decades of global collaboration and friendship among tourism professionals.
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Florimond Volckaert Fund Trustees News
Florimond Volckaert Fund 2025 World Congress Report.
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Skål International deeply mourns the passing of Carlos Lopez Gallego, Honorary President of Skål International Lima (Peru), who dedicated his life to tourism, friendship, and service. | | | |
Even at 92, he remained active, engaged, and fully present, exemplifying an unwavering passion for the world he so deeply cherished.
His distinguished career in the airline industry and the travel sector stood as a true testament to his dedication and enthusiasm for connecting cultures and people, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know and work with him.
We will always remember him for his genuine smile, warm humor, and boundless generosity.
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Winners of the 2025 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards
The winners were announced during the Opening Ceremony of the Skål International World Congress, held in Cusco, Peru.
| | We extend our heartfelt congratulations to them for their valuable contribution towards advancing more sustainable tourism. | | Skål International Krabi Joins Forces with Local Government in a New Green Campaign to Protect the Beaches of Thailand’s Iconic Tourist Destination | | | Taking the lead in a new green initiative for one of Thailand’s most scenic and iconic tourist destinations, the resort of Krabi, Skål International Krabi and the local Ao Nang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation have jointly launched a new collection and recycling campaign focusing on keeping Krabi’s famous beaches clean. | | Manage and certify your sustainability with Biosphere | | |
Your Voice Matters. Help us Shape the Future of Sustainable Travel
Are you a tourism business, destination, consultant, or travel advisor working to make travel better for people and the planet?
We want to hear from you.
Sustainable Travel International is redesigning its Membership Program to better support your goals, from reducing carbon emissions to amplifying your impact in the industry. Share what tools, benefits, and resources would best support your business’s sustainability goals.
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Tourism in Global Markets
by NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President & Director Finance, Skål International
Tourism is often seen as leisure, but let’s be clear, it is serious business.
It’s where culture meets commerce, where infrastructure meets investment, and where nations tell their stories through the experiences of travelers.
| | | Today, I want to speak about tourism not just as an industry, but as a global growth engine, a force for jobs, innovation, and connection in an increasingly fragmented world. | | | | |
My Father Is Police, Lah!
by Rowena Hawkins, Skål International Hong Kong
Skål International member Rowena Hawkins takes readers on a nostalgic, humorous, and heartfelt journey in her debut memoir set in 1960s British Colonial Singapore. This book masterfully blends personal anecdotes with cultural snapshots and historical insight.
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Spain, a Leader in Slow Travel and New Rural Experiences
by José Carlos de Nicolás, Skål International Madrid
In a country that counts the millions of tourists arriving at its coasts and cities, Spain is now becoming aware that its inland regions offer the chance to reconnect with nature, local culture, and our cherished traditions, gastronomy, and natural heritage.
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Ecuador: Land of the Andean Chocho, Ancestral Seed of the Future
by Chef. Jennie Jácome, Saberes y Sabores de la Chacra Andina
High in the Ecuadorian Andes, where the páramo meets the sky, flourishes one of the world’s most remarkable legumes: the Andean chocho (Lupinus mutabilis).
| | | Cultivated for over two thousand years by pre-Incan civilizations, this ancestral seed has long symbolized strength, harmony, and reverence for Pachamama, becoming a sacred and sustainable source of nourishment. | | | | |
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Skål International Hungary Advent Celebration & 40th Anniversary of Skål International Budapest + Skål International Europe AGA
4 - 7 December, 2025
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50° CLACSKÅL 2026
29 April - 3 May 2026
Skål International Panamá warmly invites you to save the dates for the 50th CLACSKÅL Congress, taking place in vibrant Panama.
Don’t miss this extraordinary gathering at the Heart of the Universe!
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This milestone event offers a unique opportunity to explore our beautiful country, from the awe-inspiring Panama Canal and the UNESCO-listed Casco Antiguo to our cosmopolitan capital with its striking skyline. Immerse yourself in our rich culture, savour our diverse cuisine, enjoy world-class entertainment, and shop in modern malls. Most importantly, reconnect with fellow Skålegas from across Latin America and beyond, as we strengthen our bonds, network, and celebrate together.
Led by our dedicated Skålega Sara Pardo, President of the CLACSKÅL 2026 Congress Committee, an exciting agenda is being crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience. Further details will follow.
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NASC 2026: New York to Bermuda
2 - 7 May, 2026
Come join us for a special Regional Congress!
Skål International New York invites all our global colleagues to join us for a unique North American Skål Congress (NASC) experience on May 2, 2026.
Join members from Canada, Mexico and the United States on a 5 night congress cruise from New York to Bermuda. The theme of the congress will focus on the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.
The congress committee is preparing pre and post congress experiences in historic areas of the Northeast of the US such as Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York, Boston, Long Island, Baltimore and Washington focused on the birth of the nation.
Past congress cruises have produced great value and a lasting and memorable experiences, spending time and building lasting relationships throughout the Skål world.
We look forward to welcoming you! Book early!
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Skål International Asia Congress
Macau, 11 - 14 June 2026
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Skål International World Congresses
Experience the world with Skål International at our upcoming World Congresses:
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Skål International 2026 World Congress: Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, 29 September to 2 October 2026. Full information coming soon!
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Skål International 2027 World Congress: Cádiz, Spain, 10-13 November 2027.
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Washington, DC: A Hub for Travel and Tourism
Washington, DC, renowned for its iconic museums, monuments, and rich history, has transformed into a vibrant hub for conventions, meetings, sports, entertainment, and cultural events, making it an essential destination for travel and tourism.
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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. | | |
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