Dear Fellow Skålleagues!

This month went by fast, don't you think?! The biggest highlight of February 2021 was no doubt Skål International's recognition as the World's Leading Tourism Association!

Considering that we were voted in among organizations like UNWTO and WTTC makes us additionally proud of receiving this recognition! Congratulations again to all fellow Skålleagues around the globe!

Despite the lockdowns, restrictions there are some exciting developments in the industry globally. There is news on soft openings and new investment projects in the hotel industry, new ship additions to fleets by some cruise lines, various Hybrid meeting introductions, product variety, and marketing models by tour operators/ travel agencies and the transportation companies. All this shows us the industry's resilience and the strong desire to come back sooner than expected. Despite some delays in vaccination programs in some countries, there is progress in that perspective as well. Along with the drop in the numbers of cases, I am continuing to stay optimistic for better news in the industry in the next few months. 

Please continue to take advantage of these slower times by updating your contacts/database; update your knowledge by joining live educational/ industry webinars or by watching the recordings at Skål International Resource Center; interact with the industry through digital trade shows; stay connected with Skålleagues by joining Zoom meetings of your club or other Skål International clubs around the globe. Just be prepared and ready for the 'next' to come!

This month's newsletter is packed with some exciting and informative news!

We have all the information you need to stay up to date with the industry and trends! Please check out the E-hotelier's Offer for 'Free Executive Online Courses' for Skål International members! We have an interesting article on the Travel Innovation Trend by Skål International Paris member Laurent Queige-Welcome City Lab! This month we continue to give tributes to our beloved members lost during the pandemic and share Covid recoveries' stories by our members. This month's story is from our Past World President Lavonne Wittmann – a truly inspiring story!

Last but not least, my favorite addition to our monthly newsletter is the 'Skål History'! As they say, 'Those, who do not know their past cannot build their future!' Moving forward, every month, we will issue stories from Skål International History. Our Honorary President, Antonio Garcia del Valle, will share all the unique stories from our 89 years long history!

Please do not hesitate to contact me or anyone on the Skål International Executive Board for any questions, suggestions, and/or feedback. It is our pleasure to assist you!

Enjoy the newsletter!

Always, In Friendship and Skål,

Burcin Turkkan

Skål International Senior Vice President

PR, Communications and Social Media