FEG’s annual general meeting in Istanbul

FEG – European Federation of Tourist Guides Associations has just concluded its Annual General Meeting in Istanbul. A new Executive Board was elected. The following colleagues will work as the new Executive Board Members:

• Tom Hooper, United Kingdom – Chairman



• Annie Passot Tomianka, France – Board member



• Carlos Ortega Gutierrez, Spain – Board member



• Glorianne Mizzi, Malta – Board member

TUREB welcomes FEG in Istanbul



FEG`s Annual General Meeting (AGM) was hosted by TUREB in Istanbul between November 2 and 7. What makes this meeting more special than ever was celebration of double anniversaries. FEG was celebrating its 20th anniversary whereas the Istanbul Tourist Guides Guild was celebrating its 50th anniversary.



The Executive Board Members, Delegates, tourist guides and accompanying person had the opportunity of enjoying the rich program.



Annie Passot-Tomianka, chairman of FEF said, “The European Federation of Tourist Guides Associations (FEG) celebrates its 20th Anniversary in Istanbul from the 3rd to the 6th November 2006. Representatives from FEG Member Countries are meeting in Istanbul to celebrate this special occasion. The event is hosted by TUREB (Federation of Turkish Tourist Guides) in Istanbul where Turkish colleagues celebrate their 50th anniversary. So it is a DOUBLE ANNIVERSARY in November 2006. Congratulations!



F.EG. for the last two decades has worked towards achieving a high profile and recognition for qualified tourist guides working in countries all over Europe and highly involved in raising awareness with regards to the unique role played by tourist guides.



Tourism has changed dramatically in the last 20 years. New markets and destinations have grown whilst others have declined. The consumer now has more choice and is better informed than ever. It is no wonder that expectations are higher. Quality, as well as good value for money are in high demand and the modern day visitor expects professionalism at all levels.



FEG strongly believes that professional tourist guides play a pivotal role in enhancing the experience of the traveller. Tourist Guides are ambassadors of their cities, regions and countries. They promote the destination and help raise awareness of cultural and natural heritage. The tourist guide is the key contact for travellers, they are instrumental in creating mutual understanding among nations and cultures.



FEG’s success story stems from its ability to create common cultural links. The nineteen different countries in FEG represent the rich variety of Europe’s diverse heritage. Within this diversity FEG has found fertile common cultural ground. The varied educational systems of member states have never stopped FEG from working towards achieving a common approach to tourist guide training and qualification across Europe. That is why FEG members signed early this year a consensus on what they perceive as common elements of tourist guide training.” And added “With the experience of twenty years FEG is honoured and proud to represent European Tourist Guides. FEG enthusiastically looks forward to a prosperous and healthy future and wish all Turkish colleagues a happy anniversary.”