A warm welcome to WFTGA’s new National Trainers
Since 2006, WFTGA has hosted training courses at its Cyprus International Training Centre (ITC), in collaboration with the University of Cyprus and with the support of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. These courses provide experienced tourist guides with the opportunity to earn a WFTGA Trainer Qualification, while working alongside colleagues from across the globe in […]
35 Years Union of Bulgarian Tourist Guides – Guardians of Cultural Authenticity and Accessible Culture
On behalf of the Union of Bulgarian Tourist Guides (UBTG), we are pleased to inform you about the successful conference held on 20 February 2026 in Varna, Bulgaria, on the occasion of the International Tourist Guide Day with the support of Varna Municipality and Varna Economic Development Agency (VEDA). The event took place at Hotel […]
Training Deaf-Certified Guides – A Journey of Learning, Solutions, and Inclusion
by Sarah Janning-Picker (WFTGA National Trainer and Area Representative) At the end of 2024, Hamburg Guides launched a dedicated training initiative together with three deaf participants, developed in close collaboration with the local Deaf Association. The idea was sparked by an already active deaf guide, whose commitment and enthusiasm encouraged others to begin their own […]
Women Guiding the World – Recognise, Respect and Support Female Tourist Guides
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) recognises and celebrates the vital contribution of women in tourist guiding worldwide. Tourist guiding is a profession shaped and strengthened by women. Globally, an estimated 80% of tourist guides are female. For many, guiding offers an important pathway to professional […]
WFTGA endorses first external CPD course for Tourist Guides – an exciting new chapter of stakeholder engagement
WFTGA is pleased to announce a ground-breaking co-operation with a new stakeholder – AR Tours, based in Naples, Italy. AR Tours is an established expert in developing digital augmented reality content for historic sites. Eager to extend their reach and enhance their skills training offer, AR Tours reached out to the World Federation of Tourist […]
International Tourist Guide Day 2026
Tourist Guides Worldwide Celebrate Their Role as Bridge-Builders for Peace and Understanding On 21 February, tourist guides around the globe celebrate International Tourist Guide Day, honouring a profession that plays a vital role in fostering cultural understanding, dialogue, and responsible travel. This year’s message comes from Japan, where the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations […]
WFTGA Peace Ceremony in Nagasaki Highlights Ethical Responsibility of Tourist Guides Worldwide
1,000 Paper Cranes and Joint Peace Declaration Frame a Powerful Call for Truth, Context and Professional Integrity Nagasaki, Japan – 2026 During the WFTGA Conference 2026 in Japan, tourist guides from across the globe gathered in Nagasaki for a Peace Ceremony that became one of the most meaningful moments of the entire conference. Throughout […]
Peru Wins the Bid to Host the 22nd WFTGA Convention in 2028
The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) is delighted to announce that Peru has been selected as the host country for the 22nd WFTGA Convention in 2028. Following inspiring and highly professional presentations, the delegates have chosen Peru as the next Convention destination. We warmly congratulate our Peruvian colleagues on their well-deserved success and […]
New Executive Board of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) Elected in Japan – President Sebastian Frankenberger Confirmed in Office
Japan, 23 February 2026 – During the official meeting of delegates held in Japan on 23 February, the new Executive Board (ExBo) of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) was elected for the forthcoming two-year term. Sebastian Frankenberger (Austria) was confirmed in office as President and re-elected for a further two years. The […]
600 Professional Tourist Guides from 50 Nations Gather in Fukuoka for Groundbreaking Sustainability Summit
World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations Convention 2026 Addresses Professional Sustainability and Global Tourism Standards Fukuoka, Japan – 9 February 2026 – The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) opened its 2026 Convention today in Fukuoka, bringing together 600 professional tourist guides from over 50 countries alongside representatives from UN Tourism and UNESCO for […]
WFTGA 2026 Convention – Advance Convention Training and Preparation Programme
As anticipation builds for the WFTGA 2026 Convention, the spotlight falls not only on the event itself, but on the vital preparation that takes place beforehand. For professional tourist guides, training is more than a necessity — it’s the bedrock of excellence, ensuring that each guide is ready to deliver outstanding experiences to visitors from […]
Western Japan Social Media Contest – Show Your Best Moments & Win Big!
We are delighted to launch the Western Japan Social Media Contest — a special initiative celebrating the culture, landscapes and experiences of Western Japan in connection with the WFTGA Convention 2026 in Fukuoka, Japan. This contest is open to all WFTGA members, regardless of where you are located! 🏆 Grand Prize One winner will […]
Statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day: Our Responsibility as Tourist Guides
Today, on the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the world observes International Holocaust Remembrance Day. This year’s theme, “Holocaust Remembrance for Dignity and Human Rights,” reminds us that remembrance is not merely about the past – it is a commitment to the present and future. As professional tourist guides, we stand at the […]
Online Registration Now Open
We are pleased to announce that online registration for the virtual participation in the WFTGA Convention 2026 in Fukuoka, Japan is now open. Join colleagues from across the globe for a full week of inspiration, professional exchange and cultural discovery — live from Japan and accessible wherever you are. 🗓️ Highlights of the Virtual Programme Monday – Opening & […]
A Statement of Solidarity from the WFTGA
Free Virtual Participation in the WFTGA Convention 2026 In a world marked by uncertainty, conflict and growing economic challenges, the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) reaffirms its commitment to solidarity, inclusion and professional support within the global guiding community. Tourist guides play a unique role in society. They foster dialogue, preserve cultural heritage […]
Guiding at the Highest Level in Nicosia: Professional Standards and Dialogue in Practice
During an official visit to Nicosia, WFTGA President Emeritus Titina guided Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, together with Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus, along the ceasefire line. Cyprus is not a post-conflict destination. The division of the island remains a lived reality. Guiding in such a place requires […]
WFTGA Training: Building the Foundation for Strategic Transformation
By Viola Lewis, Head of Training (2019 to 2026) As I approach the constitutional end of my term as Head of Training it is time to reflect on achievements whilst highlighting the critical strategic work that now needs to begin – work that will require fresh leadership and vision. Major Achievements: Sabah Trainer Convention and […]
Shape the Future of Professional Guiding – Join the WFTGA Executive Board!
Are you passionate about advancing our profession? Do you want to make a real difference for tourist guides worldwide? Now is your chance. The election process for the new WFTGA Executive Board is officially open, and we’re looking for dedicated members ready to help shape our Federation’s future. What’s New This Year For the first […]
Statement on Iran: Solidarity with Tourist Guides and Our Ethical Responsibility
The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) is following the current situation in Iran with deep concern. Our thoughts are with our Iranian colleagues, with whom we share long-standing professional relationships, personal friendships and a common commitment to the guiding profession. In 2017, the WFTGA held its international convention in Iran. Participants experienced extraordinary […]
WFTGA Year-End Update: From Survival to Momentum
Dear Members, dear colleagues, The end of the year is always a good moment to pause and reflect on where we stand. This message was originally intended to reach you before New Year, but as it will now go out in the coming days, it also serves as a bridge into 2026. With our term […]
European Tourist Guides Support EU HECTOR Awareness Event on Protecting Touristic Sites
Qualified tourist guides and members of the European Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (FEG), representing 25 European countries, were pleased to take part in the EU HECTOR project Awareness Event dedicated to the Protection of Touristic Sites in Europe. The event was held alongside the 24th European Tourist Guide Meeting in the Dalarna region (Falun, […]
Convention Bidding Process Update – Meet the Bidders!
The bidding process for the upcoming convention unfolded over two exciting rounds. After not having enough eligible bidders in the first round, we opened a second round to any organization ready to step forward and host — and the response was fantastic! We’re thrilled to announce that the Bidding Committee has accepted four strong bids, […]
Merry Christmas 2025 – Light in the Darkness. A Story We Carry Forward
Dear Tourist Guides, Dear Trainers, Dear Colleagues, Dear Partners, Dear Friends, Once upon a time – this is how many of the stories we cherish begin. And it is no coincidence that the Christmas story is among the most powerful narratives in human culture. Beyond any religious interpretation, it is a masterpiece of storytelling: simple, […]
Inclusive city tours by telephone – German project seeks German-speaking guides worldwide
Dear tourist guides, dear WFTGA members, We would like to introduce you to a successful, inclusive project from Germany – and hope that you will be enthusiastic about participating. The idea is as simple as it is effective: Audio-descriptive city tours by telephone are aimed at people for whom travelling poses (major) challenges, […]
Run your own course with WFTGA’s seal of approval (endorsement)
Did you know that you can create your own course and have it endorsed by the WFTGA? This is exactly what a group of WFTGA Trainers have done. The Online Guided Tours Team that consists of 5 WFTGA trainers created a course based on the use of technology to provide Online Guided Tours to people who […]
Reopening the 2028 Bidding Process
We would like to inform our members and partners of an important update regarding the current bidding round for a future WFTGA Convention. We received several expressions of interest, and the deadline for submitting all required documents was yesterday. Unfortunately, only one bidder provided the full set of documents; however, this bid did not meet […]
Hands on Tourist Guiding (HOT) Course – Sabah, Malaysia
The Sabah Tourist Guide Association, with their very own trainers under the leadership of Grace Leong, delivered another HOT Course under accreditation. Course Accreditation empowers our qualified WFTGA Trainers to provide their own courses locally in the place, at the time, with the price structure and in the language best suited to local requirements. Valid […]
Convention 2026 – Webinar 2 | Workshops, Keynote speeches, alternative Pre- and Post- Programmes
We’d like to extend an invitation to all of you, both registered participants and those still deciding, to join our second webinar on November 20th at 12:00 (noon) CET. During this session, we will share details about the alternative Pre- and Post-Programmes, walk through the day-by-day schedule, provide insights into the keynote speeches, workshops, and […]
Opening of the WFTGA Train the Trainer Course, Cyprus
Welcome speech to the participants of the Train the Trainer Course, Cyprus 16 to 30 Nov 2025 By Viola Lewis, WFTGA ExBo Member, Head of Training Dear Colleagues, dear esteemed guests, dear supporters and sponsors, Deputy Ministry of Tourism, University of Cyprus, Cyprus Tourist Guides Association dear Titina Loizidou WFTGA President Emeritus, It is an […]
Vox Aura: A New Tool That Supports Tourist Guides and Expands Their Opportunities
Vox Group is pleased to share an update with the international guiding community on the launch of Vox Aura, the new AI-powered device that delivers real-time multilingual commentary during guided tours. The system was introduced at WTM London 2025 and is currently in final trials with key partners worldwide. The wider rollout is anticipated for […]
World Tourism Day 2025 in Theldeniya: A Celebration of Sustainable Tourism
On 10th October 2025, the town of Theldeniya in Sri Lanka hosted a vibrant and meaningful celebration of World Tourism Day, under the theme of ecological awareness, cultural pride, and youth education. The event was organised by the Central Province Tourist Guide Lecturers’ Association, in collaboration with the Dumbara Mithuro Environmental and Cultural Society and […]
WFTGA Applauds Toledo’s Groundbreaking Tourist Flow Ordinance – A Global Model for Sustainable Urban Tourism
The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) proudly commends the City of Toledo (Spain) for its pioneering municipal ordinance designed to manage tourist flows in the historic city centre. This forward-looking regulation marks a decisive step toward a sustainable, inclusive and resident-friendly tourism model, balancing the needs of the local community with those of […]
Speak Clearly, Lead Confidently: Accent Training for Tourist Guides
A team of volunteers – mainly WFTGA Trainers – came together to provide conversation sessions for our colleagues in Fukuoka, Japan, in preparation for our 2026 Convention. Our ranks were strengthened by Jessica Campbell – an expert on accent improvement. Something for your off-season CPD? Speak Clearly, Lead Confidently: Accent Training for Tourist Guides WFTGA recently […]
New Partnership: WFTGA and Keyguides Connect – A Digital Opportunity for Tourist Guides Worldwide
We are pleased to announce an exciting new partnership between the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) and Keyguides Connect, a new digital platform designed to empower professional tourist guides across the globe. Keyguides Connect is not just another marketplace – it’s a tool built with guides in mind, offering visibility, flexibility, and fairness. […]
Bridging Connections of Understanding
Guild members joined an inspiring cultural orientation at the Embassy of Japan, hosted by the Japan Information & Culture Center, in Washington DC as part of their preparation for the WFTGA Convention 2026 in Fukuoka. On 20 October 2025, members of the Guild of Professional Tour Guides of Washington, D.C. were warmly hosted by the […]
New WFTGA Endorsed Course – The ABC of online guided tours
New CPD Opportunity for Tourist Guides We are delighted to announce the launch of the ABC of Online Guided Tours (OGT) CPD Training Course, endorsed by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA). Free course preview: Join us on Tuesday, November 4, at 16:00 CET. Get an overview of the content, format, and outcomes, and ask your questions […]
Reflections of a newly qualified WFTGA National Trainer
WFTGA Train the Trainer Course – Willemstad, Curaçao – supported by Curaçao Tourist Board This past August, I had the privilege of joining the WFTGA’s Train the Trainer course in Willemstad, Curaçao, organised by the Curaçao Tourist Board. As a seasoned tourist guide, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but the experience exceeded every […]
World Tourism Day Celebration in Makeni Elevates Tourism with NACTOG Sierra Leone
Makeni, Sierra Leone — The National Association of Certified Tourist Guides (NACTOG) Sierra Leone amplified World Tourism Day with a dynamic programme featuring a symposium, cultural displays, and a children’s fun day. The event underscored Makeni’s embrace of World Tourism Day and highlighted the invaluable contributions of passionate tour guides to the sector’s growth. The […]
World Tourism Day 2025 – “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”
Tourist Guides and the Real Work of Sustainable Transformation Vienna – On this year’s World Tourism Day, celebrated under the UN’s theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) proudly reaffirms its commitment to a tourism future that is just, inclusive, resilient, and human-centred. As an NGO Affiliate of UN […]
Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Munich Tourist Guide Association
Munich, Germany – The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) is proud to join the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of the Munich Tourist Guide Association. On this special occasion, WFTGA President Sebastian Frankenberger addressed the gathering, paying tribute to the achievements and contributions of the association and its members. “It is a great […]
Guiding Peace: Building Bridges Through Tourism – On the Occasion of the 80th United Nations General Assembly
Vienna – On this significant day, as the United Nations convenes its 80th General Assembly under the banners of peace, cooperation and sustainable development, the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) stands in alignment with these global aspirations. As a non-governmental affiliate of the United Nations, the WFTGA believes that Tourist Guides are uniquely […]
The First DOT Tour Guide Summit in the Philippines
On 17 September 2025, the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Office of Human Capital Development (OHCD) brought together around 400 tour guides from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao for the first-ever Tour Guide Summit in Cebu City. With the theme “Love Our Islands, Love Our Stories”, the one-day gathering created a national platform for tour guides, industry […]
Endorsed CPD Course: Halal Tourist Guide Training
Earlier this year WFTGA endorsed the first CPD Course. Now the team is ready to bring this course to you. To put your name on the mailing list for course dates e-mail the course team. What is it about? Tourist guides play a crucial role in shaping the image and experience of a destination. As […]
Responsible Tourist Behavior Guidelines
Drafted by SIT Faculty Distributed at Beijing Tourist Guide Stations The Responsible Tourist Behavior Guidelines, drafted by Mr. Liu Tang, faculty member of the Shanghai Institute of Tourism, have recently been distributed at tourist guide stations across Beijing. Developed in accordance with the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism issued by the United Nations World […]
Registrations Now Open for the CPD Course: Heritage Interpretation – Kraków, Poland, December 2025
WFTGA is delighted to announce the next Continuous Professional Development opportunity for qualified tourist guides: the Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) training course, certified by Interpret Europe. This 5-day, in-person programme will take place in Kraków, Poland, from 8–12 December 2025, in cooperation with the Małopolska Institute of Culture and the WFTGA Training Committee. This internationally […]
Shanghai Institute of Tourism Students Showcase Responsible Tourist Behavior and Net Zero Carbon Tourism at World Vocational College Skills Competition
At the 2025 World Vocational College Skills Competition taking place on 25-26 August, 2025, four students from the Tourism Management Program of the Shanghai Institute of Tourism won the Silver Award in the Tourism track with their project “Silk Road International Tourism University Cultural Exchange Tour.” The project, themed “Remembering the Truth of History, Moving […]
Slow tourism, simple freedom – with the Deutschlandticket
One click, one subscription, and you’re free: the Deutschlandticket lets you travel all local and regional trains, buses, trams and metros across Germany for 58€ per month. Add your bike for just 6€ a day and suddenly the country opens up—no planning stress, no complicated fares, just jump in or out wherever curiosity calls. Since […]
In Memory of Giovanna Maria Giammarino — A Call to Action for the Guiding Profession
It is with profound sorrow that the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) learns of the tragic passing of Giovanna Maria Giammarino, a 56-year-old Italian tourist guide who collapsed and died while leading a tour at the Colosseum amid sweltering heat on August 20, 2025. Despite efforts to save her life, she passed away […]
Bidding for the Convention 2028
We are excited to announce that bidding for the WFTGA Convention 2028 is now open – with a completely redesigned process. We have learned from past experiences and created a clear, transparent, and supportive bidding framework, now outlined step-by-step on our website. You can also watch the recording of our webinar introducing the new process. […]
Call for Keynote Speakers & Workshop Facilitators
As we prepare for the WFTGA Convention 2026 in Fukuoka, Japan, we are looking for inspiring keynote speakers and experienced workshop leaders to contribute to our diverse and dynamic programme. This is a unique opportunity to share your expertise, inspire fellow guides from around the globe, and help shape the conversations that will define the […]