News from the Ethiopian Tourist Guides Professional Association
The Ethiopian Tourist Guides Professionals Association Concludes its 2018E.C Fiscal Year’s Capacity-Building and setting-standard program on specialized training topics in Geosites, Geotourism & Geoparks. The event took place on July 30th, 2026 CE in Addis Ababa. The training was initiated by the Association’s Training and Education Department and made possible through the dedicated efforts of […]
WFTGA Global Brand Ambassador Maricar Donato at ICCA Insight Circuit
Maricar Donato with ICCA’s Regional Manager for North America, Mr. Yih Hsiang WFTGA Global Brand Ambassador Maricar Donato at ICCA North America Association Insight Circuit On June 2, 2026, WFTGA Global Brand Ambassador Maricar Donato joined fifteen association leaders representing organizations connected with BestCities Global Alliance at the ICCA North American Association Insights Circuit. The […]
WFTGA International Trainer and Area Rep. Helga Sturzenegger at ICCA Association Impact Masterclass, Luxembourg
From July 2-4, 2026, WFTGA International Trainer and Area Representative Helga Sturzenegger attended the ICCA Association Impact Masterclass in Luxembourg. Here is her report: Reflections from Participating in the ICCA Association Impact Masterclass, Luxembourg “I recently had the privilege of attending the ICCA Association Impact Masterclass in Luxembourg, and I returned home inspired, challenged, and […]
FGASA Announces Safari Guide of the Year 2026
Thornybush’s Sarah Barratt crowned Safari Guide of the Year 2026 Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger 24 June 2026 After five days of intense competition, exceptional guiding and unforgettable wildlife experiences, Sarah Barratt of Thornybush Game Lodge has been crowned Safari Guide of the Year (SGOTY) 2026, while Otto Scribante of Singita was named runner-up. […]
WFTGA President Meets Local & Traveler Co-Founder in Vienna
WFTGA President Sebastian Frankenberger welcomed Engin Özkaragöz, Co-Founder of Local & Traveler, to the WFTGA office in Vienna to discuss the future of tourism, travel technology, and international collaboration.
Blue Badge Tourist Guide Mark King honored with an MBE for Services to Tourism
From the official Institute of Tourist Guiding press release, June 23, 2026: In 1949, The Daily Telegraph advertised a new professional guide training course with the memorable headline: Register to beat spivs and touts.’ The aim was simple but powerful: to ensure visitors received “the truth and nothing but the truth.” That vision became reality […]
WFTGA Area Representative Sergio Buitrago at FIEXPO Latin America
WFTGA Area Representative Sergio Buitrago at FIEXPO Latin America Sergio Buitrago attended FIEXPO Latin America 2026 as a Hosted Buyer representing the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) in his capacity as Area Representative for Central and South America. The Hosted Buyer format gave him direct, structured access to the region’s most relevant tourism […]
News from the Global Networking Forums
Starting in January 2026, WFTGA Area Representatives from the Americas, Oceania, Caribbean, Europe, and Asia hosted six Global Networking Forums (GNF); three more hosted by Team Africa are coming up over the summer. The series will continue in the autumn with one more round from each Area Representative Team. Information about registering can be found […]
Welcome New Area Representatives!
From Europe to Asia, Africa to the Americas, our WFTGA Area Representatives have been the cornerstone of unity and progress. Their dedication and tireless efforts have forged connections, empowered communities, and elevated our profession worldwide. We are excited to introduce our new and returning Area Representatives who have already been hard at work with the […]
Proposal for new ISO Working Group on Tourist Guide Services
At the recent plenary meeting of ISO/TC 228 held in Hangzhou on 16 May 2026, the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) together with Japan Industrial Standards Committee proudly presented the proposal to establish a new ISO Working Group dedicated to tourist guide services. The proposed project title is “Tourism and related services – Tourist guide services – Recommendations.” The project leaders […]
Healing Happens in the Encounter — Why Tourist Guides Are Europe’s Untapped Health Resource
A New Voice in the Health Tourism Conversation The Overlooked Health Partners Whilst Europe debates the future of health tourism — from spa towns and salt caves to forest bathing, alpine recovery and resort-based wellness — one professional group works quietly at the very point where a destination becomes a healing experience: professional tourist guides. […]
Western Japan Social Media Contest – Winner Announcement
❤️ A huge thank you to everyone who participated! With over 500 entries, you beautifully showcased the charm of Western Japan to the world and helped pave the way for the future of our local tourism. Without further ado, we are thrilled to announce the winners of the WFTGA Convention 2026 Social Media Contest! ⭐Grand […]
Want to host the 2027 Trainer Conference – last call
Last Call! The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) is calling on members, partners and stakeholders to host our 2nd Trainer Conference in 2027. This premier event features both the core conference and pre- and post-conference training courses. We are seeking a well-connected, affordable, and accessible destination to welcome our global community of tourist […]
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 […]