SKAL International

What is SKAL all about and what SKAL stands for are questions that are being raised by many people every day.  SKAL is of Scandinavian origin and it was in Scandinavia that the idea first arose during an educational tour organized by some big airlines for a number of senior representatives of the travel agencies in Paris.

When honouring a guest or friend with a toast, you say, “SKAL!”, a four-letter Scandinavian word which was rumoured then to stand for Happiness, Good Health, Friendship and Long Life.   Although that rumour was later found to be without foundation, we like to continue our belief that when we say, SKAL to our visitors, we are offering them all these good wishes as a token of happy friendship, and to all Skalmen, the word SKAL will retain that happy interpretation.

The worldwide SKAL movement was started in Paris in 1934 and its objectives are: to develop friendship and common purpose between the members of SKAL, who are usually employed in the travel and tourist industry; and  by means of international tourism, to foster goodwill in order to increase mutual understanding between the people of the world.

There are approximately 17,000 members in 400 active clubs spread out in 85 countries throughout the world.

Headquarters of the worldwide SKAL movement is in Spain, where a small permanent staff keep contact with clubs and manage the activities of the organization through elected members of an International Council.

The biggest SKAL event of the year is the Annual Congress, which is held at different locations every November or last quarter of the year.  In 1984, SKAL held its 50th Anniversary in Paris, which is where SKAL first originated.

Vision Statement:

Be a trusted voice in travel and tourism

Mission Statement:

Through our leadership, professionalism and friendship, work together to achieve our Vision, maximise networking opportunity and support a responsible tourism industry.