Skal International Taipei

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Skal International Taipei

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. The Skål movement has a history of more than 50 years in Taipei (and Taiwan). The process of organizing the Taipei club began in 1968, when a Taiwanese tourism promotion mission encountered Canadian Skål members during a visit to Vancouver. The movement gained force at a PATA Annual Congress in Taiwan, when

representatives from Skål International urged the formation of a club in Taipei. Skål International Taipei came into being in May 1970. Skål Taipei has grown steadily in recent years and has a membership that now exceeds 80, comprised mainly of travel agents and hoteliers with smaller numbers of airline executives, PCOs, NTO representatives, and journalists, among others.. It has also helped to form two younger clubs in Taiwan, in Kaohsiung and Taichung; both are much smaller than Taipei, but both are also growing. The next target is Taiwan's relatively undeveloped east coast, where an effort is under way to organize a club in Hualien-also known as Marble City, and the point of departure for visits to the world-famous Taroko Gorge. The annual membership dues for Skål Taipei buy the members 11 annual functions: nine monthly luncheon meetings (held a different hotel each month, on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) and two evening parties, one for Christmas and one for the Chinese New Year. There is also an annual National Assembly and Outing which the three Taiwan clubs take turns organizing. This is an evening event, and it also involves day tours in and around whichever city is hosting.

1982 - Skal International Taipei hosted the 11th Asian Skal Assembly
1992 - Skal International Taipei hosted the 21st Asian Skal Assembly
2008 - Skal International Taipie hosted the 69th Skal World Congress

http://www.skaltaipei.org.tw

05/05/2026

Skål Spirit at its best! 🌏

Taipei Skålleague Mayumi had a fantastic time connecting with the Skålleagues in Perth. Special thanks to Skål Perth President, Michael Collins, for the warm hospitality and for facilitating such a meaningful gathering. This is what the "Skål benefit" is all about—fostering friendship and professional connections across the globe. It serves as a wonderful reminder that through Skål, we truly have friends and professional partners all over the world. Skål! 🥂

10/04/2026

Skål Taipei Honors Late Member and Dives into Jewelry & Watch Appreciation at WINE-derful Restaurant

TAIPEI, April 8, 2026 — Skål Taipei convened its April luncheon at the distinctive WINE-derful Restaurant & Cellar, bringing together remembrance, club business, and an engaging educational session on fine jewelry and timepieces.
The club expressed sincere appreciation to Skålleague Henry, owner of WINE-derful Restaurant, and his team for their gracious hospitality and thoughtfully curated menu.

The meeting opened with a moment of silence, led by member Kitty, in memory of long-time Skålleague Andrew Pan. His kindness, friendship, and enduring presence within the club were honored with deep respect.

Resuming official proceedings, President Windy led the traditional Skål toast and reiterated the organization’s Vision and Mission. She highlighted two key upcoming international events: the Skål Asia Congress in Macao and the Skål World Congress in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, scheduled for late September.

President Windy encouraged members to actively participate in the Asia Congress and announced that she has personally registered for the World Congress in South Africa. She expressed her aspiration to see a strong delegation of Taiwanese Skalleagues representing Taipei on the global stage.

Treasurer Robert presented the financial report, confirming stable cash flow while noting a decline in membership. He emphasized the importance of proactive recruitment and sustained engagement to ensure long-term vitality.
Secretary General Stanley outlined the upcoming calendar of activities, followed by member Gina’s introduction of the SKAL International Sustainable Tourism Award, inviting participation and nominations.

In recognition of excellence, President Windy congratulated Skålleague Tina Chen, a distinguished radio host with Fushing Broadcasting, on receiving the prestigious Gracie Award, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF). The award celebrates outstanding contributions by women in media, with past recipients including Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Kerry Washington.

A highlight of the program was the keynote presentation by Kevin Shen, owner of Shenjih Jewelry Company, who delivered an insightful session on Jewelry and Watch Appreciation. His presentation offered practical knowledge on authentication, valuation, and the nuanced differences between luxury and mass-market timepieces.

Beyond technical expertise, Kevin emphasized that jewelry serves as a medium of connection—an entry point for meaningful dialogue, relationship-building, and understanding personal taste and values.

As the luncheon concluded, the sentiment was clear: while fine jewelry and timepieces may endure through time, so too does the enduring friendship among Skålleagues.

Skål!

26/03/2026

2026-03-20 Skål International Taipei Celebrates Spring Toast Amidst Cherry Blossoms

On March 20, Skål International Taipei hosted its annual Spring Toast at the stylish S.Aura Hotel, celebrating the enchanting beauty of the cherry blossom season in Taipei. Guests gathered in a refined and welcoming atmosphere to embrace the arrival of spring, surrounded by elegance and vibrant seasonal charm.

President Windy Yang opened the evening with a gracious welcome, sharing the cultural significance of the Spring Toast and introducing the traditional Chinese concept of 龍抬頭 (Dragon Raising Its Head), symbolizing renewal, vitality, and new beginnings.

The evening was further elevated by the presence of special guest Shirley Lan, a distinguished porcelain painting artist and fashion designer. Renowned for seamlessly blending Eastern aesthetics with traditional porcelain artistry, Ms. Lan’s exquisite creations were displayed throughout the venue, adding a sophisticated artistic dimension to the event.

We also warmly welcomed Skålleague Steven Chen from Vancouver, President of Skål International Vancouver, who delivered an inspiring address. He shared his vision of actively visiting Skål clubs across Asia and encouraged members to strengthen connections and expand their global network, truly embodying the spirit of “Doing Business Among Friends.”

Special thanks were extended to our Skålleague Allen Chao, President of Taipei Hotel Association, whose kind invitation brought together many distinguished members of the hotel industry to join this meaningful gathering.

We are equally grateful to our Program Chair Lofen Chiu, CEO of S.Aura Hotel, for thoughtfully curating and arranging a delightful and memorable dinner, which was enjoyed by all attendees.

The evening was beautifully complemented by the captivating performances of Lito & Angela, a talented Argentine duo. Their multilingual repertoire—spanning English, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, and Hakka—created a lively and cosmopolitan ambiance. Guests indulged in exquisite cuisine while enjoying the music, laughter, and camaraderie that filled the room.

The celebration concluded with a joyful and heartfelt toast, reflecting the enduring friendship, unity, and global connection that define the Skål spirit.

SKÅL!

13/02/2026

2026-02-11
Skål International Taipei Closes Lunar Year of the Snake with Distinguished Gathering at Howard Plaza Hotel Taipei

Skål International Taipei closed the lunar year of the Snake with a distinguished gathering at the Howard Plaza Hotel Taipei, a premier 5-star landmark hotel in the heart of Taipei’s business district. The event underscored the organization’s ongoing growth, strategic outlook, and commitment to cross-border collaboration within the local Skål community and the broader travel and hospitality industry.

The gathering began with Treasurer Robert Lee delivering an in-depth update on the association’s financial outlook, emphasizing the importance of expanding membership to sustain both strategic initiatives and financial stability.

The keynote address was delivered by Felix Yen, a prominent figure in international relations and business development. Felix holds multiple leadership roles: president of the American State Offices Association (ASOA), director of the Guam Liaison Office, executive supervisor of the Taiwan East Bund Alliance Landing America, and executive vice president of Veda International Group.

In his remarks, Felix outlined ASOA’s role in facilitating and strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and Taiwan, and he addressed tariff-related concerns, offering a comparative perspective on Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. He also examined differences in business culture between Taiwan and the United States, highlighting how these variances can influence collaboration and negotiation in cross-border ventures.

Beyond these immediate policy and culture considerations, Felix discussed future trends and opportunities that are likely to shape the regional and global business environment. He highlighted AI innovation and applications, systems integration, and user-friendly design as critical drivers of cross-border commerce. The availability of free in-flight WiFi was noted as part of a broader context of improving the travel experience and enabling seamless business mobility.

Felix also touched on the rising wave of Taiwan–U.S. business travel and the evolving “bleisure” landscape, where travel and leisure increasingly blend with professional activities.Several broader insights complemented Felix’s keynote. He emphasized AI-driven applications, seamless systems integration, and user-centric design as essential components for facilitating global commerce and collaboration. He referenced ongoing initiatives by the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (TEEMA) to establish the first Taiwan Science Park in Sonora, Mexico, near Arizona, signaling a strategic push toward broader geographic collaboration and manufacturing synergies. The discussion also encompassed the global bleisure market, projected to reach US$1.7 trillion by 2032, and the growing popularity of workcations and digital nomad lifestyles. In this context, Hilton Group’s LivSmart Studios extended-stay brand in the United States was cited as an exemplar of market demand for flexible, design-forward accommodations that support blended work and travel.

Moreover, Felix delineated the resources available to Taiwanese companies from partner organizations and the services these entities can provide to support Taiwanese enterprises in U.S. markets.

As the Year of the Snake drew to a close, Skål International Taipei extended warm wishes for the upcoming Year of the Horse, expressing hopes for health, prosperity, and continued collaboration among Skålleagues worldwide.

SKÅL!

16/01/2026

Skål Taipei Opens 2026 with a Distinguished Gathering in Beitou

The first General Meeting of Skål International Taipei for 2026 was successfully convened at Radium Kagaya, a luxury Japanese-style hot spring resort in Beitou, renowned for its authentic Japanese hospitality and traditional architectural elegance.

President Windy warmly welcomed members and guests, extending her best wishes for a prosperous and successful Year of the Horse. She also expressed sincere appreciation to all who contributed to the remarkable success of last year’s St. Lucian Christmas celebration, which exemplified Skål’s spirit of friendship and international cooperation.

Demonstrating Skål International Taipei’s continued commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, Treasurer Robert Lee, Chairman of Fantasy Travel, together with Past President Hiro Liao, presented a donation to the Andrew Charity Association, supporting its ongoing efforts to assist communities in need.

The highlight of the meeting was the induction of Katherine Meighan, Ambassador of Belize, as a new member of Skål International Taipei—marking her as the first new member of the 2026 Year of the Horse. The membership certificate was formally presented by Membership Chair Yasunori Doi, together with Robert Kennedy Lewis, Ambassador of Saint Lucia and one of Skål Taipei’s most active and outstanding Skallegues.

Following Ambassador Lewis’s introduction, Ambassador Meighan delivered the keynote address, offering an engaging and educational introduction to Belize. Her presentation vividly illustrated the country’s magnificent oceans, mountains, lush jungles, and remarkable Mayan heritage sites, while also celebrating Belize’s rich ethnic diversity and deep cultural roots—an inspiring message that resonated strongly with all in attendance.

The meeting was further distinguished by a historic diplomatic presence. Alongside H.E. Dr. Robert Kennedy Lewis, Ambassador of Saint Lucia, H.E. Katherine Meighan and H.E. Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, joined the gathering. The presence of three ambassadors from different nations underscored Skål International Taipei’s growing international influence and its strong connections within both the diplomatic community and the global Skål network.

As the new year begins, Skål International Taipei extends its warmest wishes to Skålleagues around the world for a fruitful, successful, and inspiring 2026.

SKÅL!

01/01/2026

As we step into the new year, we would like to wish all Skålleagues around the world a very happy New Year of the Horse! May the year ahead bring good health, meaningful connections, and continued success to our global Skål family. 🌍✨🥂 SKAL!

18/12/2025

2025-12-14

Sailing into a Season of Gratitude: A Sparkling Caribbean Christmas with Skål Taipei

Fantastic! Amazing! Fabulous! Wonderful! Awesome! These were the words echoing throughout the ballroom from Skålleagues and distinguished guests who gathered for the SKÅL International Taipei Christmas Party on December 14th. With the theme and dress code “Sailing into a Sparkling Caribbean Christmas with a St. Lucian Touch,” guests in colorful ties and elegant dresses filled the evening with smiles, laughter, and the vibrant spirit of St. Lucia.

The celebration began with a warm welcome from President Windy, who expressed sincere appreciation for the unwavering support and generosity of fellow Skålleagues throughout the year. This was followed by an inspiring address from Dr. Robert Kennedy Lewis, Ambassador of St. Lucia, who captivated the audience with vivid insights into St. Lucia—a breathtaking volcanic island adorned with lush rainforests and pristine beaches.

A particularly touching moment of the evening reflected the true spirit of Christmas as a season of gratitude and giving. Our Skål Taiwan Former President Johnny Tsai, who has long treasured his Skål tie, graciously offered it for the charity auction on this special night. Donations were made with joy, and in a gesture of collective appreciation, the tie was returned to him—creating a scene that was genuinely warm and deeply moving. In the same spirit, a portion of the proceeds from this Christmas celebration will be donated to Andrew’s Charity Association Food Bank, allowing the joy of the season to extend beyond the ballroom and into the wider community.

The spotlight of the night belonged to St. Lucian singer Keril Victor. Performing in English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, and even Hakka, his soulful and magnetic voice captivated the audience and lifted the evening to its emotional peak.
Of course, the success of the night was the result of many dedicated contributions. Fellow Skålleague Mayumi, serving as master of ceremonies, guided the event seamlessly with grace and warmth. Fellow Skålleague Amy, together with the entire Howard Plaza Hotel Taipei team, provided a superb venue and an exquisite St. Lucian–inspired menu. Above all, it was the wholehearted participation and generosity of everyone—through auction and raffle donations, raffle ticket purchases, and simply being present—that created an evening filled with joy, gratitude, and festive warmth.

As 2025 approaches its final days, Skål International Taipei extends its warmest wishes to Skålleagues around the world: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. SKÅL!

15/12/2025

Skal Taipei Toastmasters celebrated Christmas in a vibrant Caribbean style, alongside our founding sponsor club, Skal International Taipei. The theme of the evening was the enchanting island of Saint Lucia, co-hosted by the Embassy of Saint Lucia in Taiwan.
The highlight of the event was the announcement of the STTM Member of the Year award, which went to Toastmaster Ruby Lee. Ruby was recognized for achieving the highest score in fulfilling a wide range of member tasks, including maintaining perfect attendance, contributing to the DCP program, promoting club membership, attending trainings, taking on leadership roles, and much more.
The award, which included a certificate, a Toastmasters bag, and a red envelope, was presented by Skal Taipei Club Founder Edward Lo, Club President Windy Yang, Charter President Mayumi Hu, and Ambassador Dr. Robert Lewis of Saint Lucia.
In a heartfelt gesture, Ruby chose to pass on her award gift to Madeline Chang, the club's Vice President Education (VPE), as a token of appreciation for Madeline's constant help and support.
A huge congratulations to Ruby for this well-deserved recognition, and a sincere thank you for everything you do to strengthen and inspire our club. 💝💪🙏

10/12/2025

The countdown starts today — only 4 days to go!

17/11/2025

2025-11-12

It was a TEA-licious gathering at the SKÅL International Taipei Lunch Meeting on November 11th.

Keynote speaker, Jake, a newly inducted Skålleague since March, gave a fabulous presentation on his passion and also his business, tea. He started with the introduction to his brand Guang Fang Yuan, which was established in 1980 and with vertical operation that covers from tea garden management to tea processing. The tea garden, located in Mount Lala at an elevation of 1200 to 1400 meters, provides a naturally pollution-free environment for tea growing. Every tea leaf is hand-picked, not machine-cut, to ensure the best quality. Jake brought two different teas to the lunch meeting for tasting: cold-brew Oolong Tea, with notes of honey, wild flowers, and forest wood, offered a refreshing taste; and cold Puer Tea, with hints of dates, longan, lotus, and sweet rice, gave a mellow and smooth sweetness.

WINE-derful, a wine-themed restaurant managed by fellow Skålleague Henry, was chosen as the venue for the November 11th lunch meeting. It worked closely with keynote speaker Jake to come up with the lunch menu to compliment the tea. In the end, it was a TEA-licious gathering.

The biggest and the most important upcoming event is coming up in December. The year-end Christmas dinner party will be held on December 14th. Its theme will be “Sailing into a Sparkling Caribbean Christmas” with a St. Lucian touch. Renown St. Lucian singer Keril Victor will not only make a guest appearance at the party, he will perform at the special show dedicated to this party. So it’s gonna be not just a party, but a voyage into joy, color, music, and magic of St. Lucia!

The board members and key staffs are currently working really hard planning this event, but it will take all the Skålleagues’ support to make it an even greater party. Please show your support by donation of raffle gifts and auction items, purchasing raffle tickets, and most importantly, your attendance!

So cheers to an even more exciting times ahead. SKÅL~

Address

大安區仁愛路三段160號
Taipei
10657

Website

https://www.skal.org/

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