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 […]
Recognising Tourist Guiding as a Profession
A Day for the Working World — and for Those Who Guide It On 1 May, the world marks Labour Day — a day dedicated to dignity, fairness, and respect in working life. It is a day on which we are reminded that every profession contributing to the functioning of our societies and economies deserves […]
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 […]
Open Call for Trainer Conference 2027
Open Call: Host the 2nd WFTGA Trainer Conference in 2027 The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) is calling on 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 […]
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 […]
Closing Message and Looking Ahead to Peru
Dear colleagues, dear friends, These days in Japan have been intense, vibrant and deeply inspiring. We have discussed, learned and laughed. We have stood together in the crowds before the golden pagoda, and we have shared quiet moments of reflection. Perhaps that is the most beautiful image of this Convention. We were on a journey […]
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 […]
A Gentle Reminder as We Conclude Our Journey 🌸
Dear Participants of the Post Tour 🇯🇵✨ I am very aware that we have been travelling together for nearly two weeks now during the conference, and it is only natural that a certain sense of “cabin fever” may begin to set in. May I gently remind us all that our guides are truly giving their […]
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 […]
Details for February 14th
Wasn’t our first day in Nagasaki truly unforgettable? From our introduction to the city’s rich history to that rare, up-close encounter with Nagasaki Geisha, it was a wonderful start. Today is a fully packed day of exploration. What Awaits You: To ensure a seamless experience and avoid overcrowding at our historic venues, the groups will […]
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 […]
Details for Friday 13th February
While the Closing Ceremony marks the end of the Convention for many, for you the adventure is just beginning. We are delighted that you are joining the Post-Programme. Departure Logistics Luggage: Please pack a day bag and bring all luggage to the Convention Centre (last drop-off 12:00 PM). Shuttles: Departures from Hotel Okura begin at […]
Details for Thursday 12th February
Wasn’t that a wonderful Study Tour Day? With perfect weather conditions, inspiring encounters, and so many memorable experiences throughout the day. And what a delightful conclusion at the Fukuoka City Museum — excellent food, a warm atmosphere, and the joy of sharing impressions together as colleagues and friends. Now, we are slowly approaching one of […]
Your Details for Wednesday 11th February
Let’s continue this incredible journey together after a day full of discussions, workshops, lectures and a lot of knowledge and best practice sharing. Below you will find all the essential information for our Study Tour on Wednesday, 11 February. As this will be a full and rewarding day, we kindly ask you to review the […]
Next Steps Following the Bidder Presentations
Dear Participants, What inspiring presentations we enjoyed yesterday – the visual material shared by the bidders truly brought their visions to life. Thank you all for your engagement and the many thoughtful follow-up questions we have since received. We would therefore like to clarify the next steps in the process. Decision-Making Process The final […]
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 […]
Invitation to the WFTGA Online Global Round Tables
Dear online Participants: As part of the WFTGA International Convention in Japan, we are pleased to warmly invite all online participants to take in a series of moderated Global Round Tables held online. This format ensures inclusive participation from our worldwide guiding community, regardless of location. 🗓 Tuesday, 10 February ⏰ 17:00–18:30 (exceptionally Vienna […]
The Opening of the WFTGA Convention 2026 is About to Begin
Dear colleagues, The opening of the WFTGA Convention 2026 is about to begin. We wish all participants travelling to the Convention Centre a safe and pleasant journey. You are also very welcome to join us online via Zoom or YouTube. See you shortly. Kind regards Sebastian Frankenberger President of World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations […]
Opening Ceremony
We are so excited to officially begin our Convention week at the FICC. Get ready for a day filled with Japanese culture, inspiring speakers, and a first look at our future host candidates. Logistics & Getting There ⏰ Start Time: 09:00 AM sharp 📍 Location: FICC 🚌 Shuttle Bus: Runs from 07:30–09:00 AM (and […]
Details for tomorrow (Feb 8)
We hope you had an incredible 2 days on the road, discovering Kyushu. Below you can find all the crucial details for tomorrow (February 8th). Basic Information Let’s start off with the most crucial information for tomorrow. Meeting Time: {pre-start-time-feb-8} Meeting Place: {pre-meeting-point-feb-8} Bus Number: {pre-group-feb-8} You will visit: {pre-schedule-feb8} Transportation: {pre-transportation-feb-8} Daily Logistics: […]
Links for virtual participation
Dear Convention Participants, Whether you’re joining us in Fukuoka or participating virtually, this Convention brings together our global community of professional tourist guides. To everyone who registered – including those who may have needed to cancel at short notice or found themselves unable to travel to Japan – you remain an essential part of this […]
Details for tomorrow (Feb 7)
Let’s continue this incredible journey! Below you can find all the crucial details for tomorrow (February 7th). Basic Information Let’s start off with the most crucial information for tomorrow. Meeting Time: {pre-start-time-feb-7} Meeting Place: {pre-meeting-point-feb-7} Bus Number: {pre-group-feb-7} You will visit: {pre-schedule-feb7} Transportation: {pre-transportation-feb-7} Daily Logistics: Lunch: {pre-lunch-feb-7} Dinner: {pre-dinner-feb-7} End Time: {pre-end-time-feb-7} Luggage: […]
Your Details for February 6
To ensure everything runs smoothly, we have made some last-minute adjustments to the schedule. Please double-check your meeting time and hotel details below, as they may have changed from your original itinerary. The “Golden Rule” of Travel in Japan If you’ve taken the train in Japan you might have noticed, that Japan runs on strict […]
Your Details for February 5
We are so excited to have you here. Please remember to stop by the Hotel Okura lobby tomorrow, February 5th, to collect your name badge. Our team will be at the desk from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but please don’t worry if your travels are delayed. We will remain on-site until every late-arriving guest […]
The Adventure Begins!
The Adventure Begins! It’s finally time — the 21st WFTGA Tourist Guide Convention in Fukuoka, Japan is about to begin. Dear {firstname}, The weather here is a crisp 5°C (41°F). Whether that feels mild or chilly, the warmth of the local people and the incredible food will make you feel right at home. The […]
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 […]
Webinar Summary – Helpful Information
Dear Convention Participants, In the blink of an eye, the Convention is just around the corner! We had a wonderful webinar on January 22nd, and we want to thank you for all your kind words of encouragement. You can watch the full webinar recording below (the Japanese lesson and the sneak peak at the Convention […]
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 […]
Raffle – Please Bring a Small Gift from Your Home Region
Dear WFTGA Convention Participants, One of the most cherished traditions of our WFTGA conventions is the generosity of our participants. Once again, we warmly invite you to take part in this spirit by contributing to our WFTGA Raffle. What we kindly ask you to bring In keeping with the spirit of our sustainable convention, we […]
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 […]
Correction: Date of Online Briefing – This Thursday, 22 January
ear Convention Participants, dear colleagues, A quick correction regarding our previous message — we would like to apologise for the confusion. The online briefing will take place this Thursday, 22 January, not in February as previously stated. Convention 2026 – Helpful Information for Participants 🗓 Thursday, 22 January ⏰ 13:00–14:00 CET 💻 Online (the session […]
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 […]
Participant webinar with helpful information – 22 January, 13:00–14:00 CET
Dear Convention Participants, dear colleagues, As we move closer to our Convention 2026 in Fukuoka, we would like to invite you to a practical and informative online briefing designed to help you prepare confidently for your journey to Japan and for your participation in the Convention. Convention 2026 – Helpful Information for Participants 🗓 22 […]