Cebu to host gathering of world tourism leaders

CEBU, Philippines - Skal International Cebu will be hosting the 39th Skal Asian Congress from May 27 – May 30, 2010, which will serve as a means for members of the organization all over the world to explore the richness of the Visayan culture and the abundance of the region’s natural wealth.

“Being the Philippines' top tourist destination, Cebu is guaranteed to surprise and delight Skalleagues and friends’ senses as it brandishes a novel urban lifestyle amidst the easy-going resort pace,” says Charles Lim, president of Skal International – Cebu.

According to its official website, Skal International is a “professional organization of tourism leaders around the world, promoting global tourism and friendship.” It is said to be the only group that unites all branches of the travel and tourism industry.

Lim said exceptional details have been put into the pre and post congress tours, allowing delegates to enjoy to the fullest the meaning of traditional Filipino hospitality.

Activities awaiting delegates include, among others, the Asian golf tournament at Mactan Airbase, Young Skal city tour, a beach welcome cocktail and dinner at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Young Skal forums, spouse program, and tree planting.

The congress will take place in several venues, including Alegre Beach Resort, Cebu Grand Hotel, Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu City Mariott Hotel, BE Resort Mactan, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Shangrila’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa, Cebu Parklane International Hotel and Waterfront Airport Hotel.

Skal is expecting 100 international and 100 domestic delegates in this big event aiming to strengthen the club members’ relationship and active changing of ideas on how to develop over 500 Skal Clubs worldwide and its members.

The gathering will provide every member the opportunity to share ideas and formulate strategies on how the tourism industry can surmount demands and sustain its strength and growth.

Skal was organized in France in 1932. It now has 22, 000 members all over the world from 80 countries. It was first introduced in the Philippines in 1953, and currently, there are five clubs in the country namely: Skal Manila, Skal Makati, Skal Cebu, Skal Bacolod and Skal Davao.

Skal International has been a steadfast partner in promoting travel and tourism. Its wide network of members continues to push the growth of tourism from local to regional and international levels. It has provided an excellent venue where members of the travel and tourism industry come together and formulate innovative ways and creative ideas to improve the industry.   (FREEMAN NEWS)