Skal International celebrates 75th anniversary in Paris

The association which initially began, as a Club of friends in Paris in 1932, was quickly transformed to become an International Association by the visionary Skal leaders who established the Association International des Skal Clubs (A.I.S.C.).

The historical meeting was held at Hotel Scribe in Paris on 28 April 1934 where Skal International was officially formed. As such, 28 April is known as World Skal Day which is celebrated every year.

According to Hulya Aslantas, President Skal International, the group of tourism professionals gathered in Paris to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Organisation which has over 22,000 members from 90 countries in nearly 500
locations. He says, members of Skal are leaders of the world's first, biggest and best-structured civil initiative in travel and tourism representing all branches of the industry.

On 27 April, Skal International hosted a Gala Dinner at the French National Assembly, where President of the Parliament, Mr. Bernard Accoyer, hosted guests at the "Galeries des Fêtes" in appreciation and acknowledgement that the first enduring structure in travel and tourism started in Paris 75 years ago with the Skal movement.

The evening was co-hosted by the Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey who sponsored the dinner and the publication of a commemorative book documenting the 75-year Skal history.

On April 28th, members and guests commenced the day by visiting the tomb of Florimond Volckaert, the founding President followed by a networking lunch with all visiting Skal leagues on board "Bateaux Parisiens". In the afternoon a press conference was held at Hotel Scribe, at Place de l'Opéra, where Skal International was officially formed. On this occasion, a plaque to mark the 75th Anniversary was unveiled beneath the original plaque, unveiled in 1954.

In a global circular marking the 75th Anniversary to all Skal leagues, Hulya Aslantas, President Skal International, asked members to reflect on the association's values and position. He called for answers to questions including whether all members in 90 countries have the same objectives and understanding of the Skal Movement, do they share a common, clear vision and mission or is there a need for realignment, and where should the group be heading from here.

"The Skal Dubai Chapter extends hearty congratulations to the Skal Executive Committee and members throughout the world on this milestone 75th anniversary.

Skal has not only survived through testing times since formation in 1934 but thrives as a professional organisation of tourism leaders.

Groups such as Skal play a strong role in shaping World Tourism." said Mr Amit Arora, President, Skal International - Dubai Chapter.