What is Skål ?

Skål is a professional organization of tourism leaders around the world, promoting global tourism and friendship. It is the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry. Members, who are the industry’s managers and executives, meet at local, national, regional and International levels to discuss and pursue topics of common interest.

The first Club was founded on December 16, 1932, in Paris by travel managers, following an educational tour of Scandinavia. The idea of international goodwill and friendship grew. In 1934, the “Association Internationale des Skål Clubs” was formed with Florimond Volckaert as its first President, who is considered the “Father of Skål”.

Skål International today has approximately 20,000 members in 450 Clubs throughout 90 nations. Most activities occur at local level, moving up through National Committees, under the umbrella of Skål International, headquartered at the General Secretariat in Torremolinos, Spain.

The word Skål comes from Scandinavia and has a long tradition. The "Skål", a bowl with a welcome drink, was offered to visitors when they entered the home. One would say "Skål" as a sign of friendship!

The letters of the word Skål mean:

Sundhet (GOOD HEALTH) Kärlek (FRIENDSHIP) Alder (LONG LIFE) Lycka (HAPPINESS)

Skål International is governed by an Executive Committee of seven members, elected by delegates at an Annual General Assembly. It is held during the World Congress by a different country each year. This allows members first-hand observation of the travel and tourism potential around the world.

Skål International Hamilton’s “History” began when a few Toronto Club members were instrumental in holding a meeting with business associates in Hamilton, assisting in the formation of the club. On November 11, 1978, Skål International approved the Hamilton Club for membership as Club #448. Robert J. LeClaire, was elected the first club President and installed on February 7, 1979 with 40 Charter members.

Skål is an organization of “Friends doing Business with Friends”. It is NOT a community organization but is a non-political group that develops the professional sector and creates a network of professionals around the world.

Skål members are encouraged to attend, being welcomed at any club meeting throughout the world.

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