Stories

Behind the scenes: How a pan‑European travel trend report takes shape 

8,000 respondents, 13 countries, and countless data points – the European Travel Trend Report 2026 is far more than a collection of statistics. It is the result of close collaboration between DERTOUR Group and the market research experts at Appinio. 
But how do you ensure that data collected in Poland can be meaningfully compared with results from Ireland? And how do you cut through millions of responses to identify the insights that truly matter to today’s travellers? To find out, we spoke with Appinio about what happens behind the scenes of a pan‑European study.

DERTOUR Group

Wellbeing as the framework for travel: Key findings from DERTOUR Group’s European Travel Trend Report – Part II

Wellbeing and sport are no longer niche interests in European travel but increasingly shape how travellers define a good holiday. According to the second part of the DERTOUR Group European Travel Trend Report, this is now clearly reflected in how travel decisions are made across Europe. At the same time, interest in sport remains strong, although its meaning is changing, with travellers valuing movement.

DERTOUR Group / DMC

DERTOUR Group and Valentour to launch joint venture in Italy

DERTOUR Group expands its destination portfolio in Italy through the finalisation of a joint venture with long‑standing partner Valentour. The joint venture combines DER Viaggi, DERTOUR Group’s established Destination Management Company (DMC) in Italy, with Valentour, a highly specialised DMC with a strong footprint in Calabria, Sicily and Apulia. Together, the partners will create a unique setup offering comprehensive DMC coverage for all destinations south of Lake Garda from a single source.

DERTOUR Group

Update on DERTOUR Group’s 2025 performance

DERTOUR Group once again proved to be a resilient growth driver within the REWE Group in 2025. Despite an environment shaped by geopolitical crises and economic uncertainty, the Group recorded strong growth in both guest numbers and revenue, thus making a substantial contribution to REWE Group’s overall business performance. Across 16 European source markets, we achieved organic growth of seven per cent in guest numbers in 2025.

DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts / Sentido

Sentido presents „9-Hands-Dinner Events “ 

Sentido, the hotel brand for all the senses under the DERTOUR Group Hotel Division, is launching an international culinary event series entitled the Sentido 9-Hands Dinner Events. Each event brings together three head chefs from three different Sentido hotels, who jointly create an exclusive four‑course menu inspired by local ingredients, regional culinary traditions and international influences. Over the course of the series, nine Sentido hotels will take part.

DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts / Aldiana / ananea

Portfolio optimisation at DERTOUR Group Hotel Division

The DERTOUR Group Hotel Division is realigning its offering in Zanzibar as part of a portfolio optimization. Looking ahead, attention will shift to the lifestyle brand ananea, which has thrived in Zanzibar. Its contemporary ‘Slow Glamour’ approach aligns perfectly with the island’s unique personality. The Aldiana Club Zanzibar Kwanza, on the other hand, will leave the portfolio on 30 April 2026. “Zanzibar is and remains an appealing destination for us,” explains Ingo Burmester, CEO of the DERTOUR Group Hotel Division.

Portrait Leif Vase Larsen CEO International DERTOUR Group
DERTOUR Group

Leif Vase Larsen to leave DERTOUR Group

After 25 years with DERTOUR Group, Leif Vase Larsen, CEO International, has decided to leave the company at his own request at the end of April 2026 to take up a new role outside the Group starting May 1, 2026.

Throughout his career, he has been recognised for leading multinational teams, shaping international market strategies across Europe, and driving digital and organisational transformation. His responsibilities included steering international expansion, harmonising operational structures, and strengthening the DERTOUR Group’s competitive position in the global tourism market.

DERTOUR Group / Aldiana / ananea / Calimera / DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts

Strategic Realignment of the DERTOUR Group Hotel Division

A strategical realignment is underway at the DERTOUR Group Hotel Division. The objective is to enhance quality on all levels: further improving the guest experience, advancing products and sharpening the hotel brands and concepts, as well as optimizing processes and services for partners and employees. All of these elements are essential prerequisites for the sustainable growth of the Hotel Division, which already comprises more than 120 hotels and club resorts. The newly formed Hotel Board will immediately take over all central management functions of the Hotel Division across all locations and brands.

DERTOUR Group / Stories

Recording: International press conference DERTOUR Group at ITB 2026

The DERTOUR Group held a press conference at this year’s ITB. The results of the first DERTOUR Group European Travel Trend Report were presented at the English-language press conference. The report is based on findings from 13 European countries, booking analyses from 16 markets, and the qualitative expertise of teams in 31 travel markets. It also highlighted expectations for 2026, strategic steps for the group’s international growth, including hotel openings and the uniform brand strategy of DERTOUR Destination Management Companies.

DERTOUR Group

DERTOUR Group focuses on comprehensive traveller support

At the international tourism trade fair ITB in Berlin, the DERTOUR Group shared its current perspective on developments in the European travel market and presented the latest booking trends. As an international travel group operating in 16 European with approximately 200 companies, the DERTOUR Group is a key player in the European tourism and travel experiences market. Christoph Debus, CEO DERTOUR Group, emphasized the company’s strategic focus on sustainable growth and guest experiences.

DERTOUR Group

DERTOUR Group launches European Travel Trend Report: Travellers longing for safety, simplicity and relaxation

As everyday life becomes faster, more digital, and less predictable, European travellers are seeking clarity and mental recuperation, and they expect that feeling to guide their journey from the moment they begin planning their holidays until they return home. This is the core message of the DERTOUR Group’s first European Travel Trend Report, released today. This report is based on a survey conducted among 8,000 participants across 13 European countries.

DERTOUR Group

DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts continues expansion course with focus on the Mediterranean region

DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts (DTHR) is continuing its growth path. In 2026, the hotel division of the DERTOUR Group will expand its portfolio with seven new properties in popular destinations across the Mediterranean. In addition, two new HENRI Hotels will open in Germany through the company’s majority stake in DSR Hotel Holding.

With this expansion, DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts is strengthening the strategic positioning of its brands, from lifestyle concepts such as ananea, classic beach resorts to family-focused offerings and boutique city hotels.

DERTOUR Group / DMC / Stories

DERTOUR Group’s Destination Management Companies introduce a unified brand strategy

DERTOUR Group is unifying and harmonizing its brands across its international Destination Management Companies (DMC). This strategic initiative reinforces the positioning of the DMC organization as a trusted B2B partner in the international experience sector (travel arrangements, tours, and activities). With a network of 71 offices in 31 countries, DERTOUR Group’s DMC organization combines a global scale with deeply rooted local expertise. With the rebranding, DERTOUR Group will streamline its DMC brands and harmonize their visual identity to create a unified and recognizable presence across markets.

Stories

Apollo reveals top travel trends for 2026

2026 is here, and Apollo’s latest trend outlook shows a clear shift in how people want to experience the world. Travel is becoming more personal, more playful, and far more meaningful. Holidays are no longer just about getting away—they’re about creating experiences that reflect who we are and what we value. “The trends for 2026 confirm what we at Apollo have sensed for a long time: people want to travel with more freedom, more curiosity, and a desire for genuine experiences,” explains Beatriz Rivera, Nordic Head of Communications at Apollo. “This is at the very core of what we work for every single day. That’s why this year’s trend outlook gives us such a boost – it shows that we’re on the right track.

Stories

Go Vacation Dominican Republic and Tapitas x Quimio: Supporting plastic cap collection for children with cancer 

For the past few years, DERTOUR DMC’s Go Vacation Dominican Republic has been actively supporting the Tapitas x Quimio initiative, which was started by doctors Sonia Dickson, Katherine Candelario, and Lliamel Guzmán to help children with cancer in the Dominican Republic.  

The idea is simple: collect millions of caps that would otherwise pollute the land and seas, sell them by weight to local recycling companies (including Skyplast, Plastisam, and Pastoriza Plastics), and donate the proceeds directly to pediatric oncology foundations such as Fundación St. Jude and Fundación Amigos Contra el Cáncer Infantil (FACCI).

Stories

Stronger together: DERTOUR DMC and ANIXE setting new standards

When DERTOUR Group acquired ANIXE in September 2024, the goal was clear: unite technological innovation with destination management expertise to create exceptional value for clients. Just over a year later, that vision is already delivering results. In late 2025, DERTOUR Destination Management Companies (DMC) successfully went live with a first pilot client, marking a major milestone for both organizations. The activation launched with four destinations: Tunisia, Egypt, Dubai and Greece, with additional ones to follow soon. Thanks to ANIXE’s robust integration capabilities and DERTOUR DMC’s market expertise, the go-live was not just fast—it was seamless. From a strategic perspective, ANIXE gives further connectivity options to DERTOUR DMC’s third-party clients and suppliers.

DERTOUR Group / Allgemein

Benjamin Boesch appointed joint CEO of DERTOUR UK  

Following the expansion of the DERTOUR Group in the UK market, Ben Boesch has been appointed joint CEO for DERTOUR UK and will work alongside Francis Torrilla to lead the group of 11 specialist businesses.   Starting in January 2026, Ben will take a lead on strategic direction of the UK group alongside Francis Torrilla.  
Francis and Ben have already worked closely together within the DERTOUR Group, with Ben currently overseeing strategy and specialist businesses for the group, so it’s a positive, productive and familiar working relationship which will ensure the group moves forward with pace, focus and ambition.

Stories

Kuoni France returns to the podium in Capital’s 2026 ranking 

Capital magazine has published its 10th edition of the “Best Brands 2026” ranking – a benchmark for consumer trust and brand excellence in France. This year, more than 15,000 consumers were surveyed by research institute Statista, and 507 brands across 140 sectors were evaluated. We are proud to announce that Kuoni France has once again earned a place among the best, securing the bronze medal in the Tour Operator category. Kuoni France achieved an impressive score of 8.13 out of 10, confirming its position as one of the most trusted and respected brands in the French travel market. This recognition marks a significant milestone in their journey. After a brief absence in 2023 and 2024, Kuoni France is back on the podium in 2025 with a bronze medal!

Stories

The solo travel surge: Why women are leading the way 

Travel trends are shifting—and one of the most exciting changes is the rise of women choosing to explore the world on their own terms. Instead of waiting for friends or family to align schedules or share the same travel dreams, more women are booking solo adventures. It’s about freedom, discovery, and experiences that feel truly personal. Specialist operator Jules Verne, part of DERTOUR UK, reports that solo travellers now make up 46% of its bookings for next year—up from 40% in 2023. Nearly 70% of those solo travellers are women. As Jules Verne’s managing director Debbie O’Neill explains, “Many of our guests have busy lives filled with family and friends, but they also value the freedom to explore in their own way.

Stories / DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts / Sustainability

Green Buddies by DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts: Where sustainability meets social responsibility

Travel can be relaxing and inspiring – but it also impacts the planet. That’s why DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts launched Green Buddies, a creative initiative that turns small choices into big changes. It’s about making sustainability visible, meaningful, and easy for guests and hotel partners alike.  This initiative is a core part of DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts’ sustainability vision, reducing environmental impact while supporting social projects. It makes sustainability visible and meaningful for guests and partners. Several hotels have already introduced the project: Sentido Galo Resort, Sentido Bellevue Park, Sentido Marea, Sentido Phenicia, Playitas, Calimera Ralitsa Superior, Calimera Blend Paradise.

Stories / DERTOUR Group / Sustainability

The story behind DERTOUR Group’s marine mammal policy change

At DERTOUR Group, decisions that affect our travel portfolio are never made lightly. When it comes to animal welfare, especially concerning marine mammals, our journey toward change has been shaped by reflection, research, and collaboration.

Over the past months, our Corporate Responsibility team, began re-evaluating excursions involving whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals. The question wasn’t just about what we offer — it was about what we stand for.

The process started with a comprehensive review of our animal-related products. From there, internal discussions evolved into broader conversations with tourism partners and animal welfare experts.

DERTOUR Group / Human Resources

DERTOUR Group Announces Strategic Changes to Executive Board

Technological Innovation

DERTOUR Group announces a series of strategic changes to its Executive Board, reflecting the company’s continued growth. These changes come on the heels of the landmark acquisition of Hotelplan Group in August 2025, which has positioned DERTOUR Group as the umbrella for nearly 200 companies and approximately 15,000 employees. “Our group has entered a new era,” says Christoph Debus, CEO DERTOUR Group. “With the successful acquisition of Hotelplan and our expanded international footprint, it is essential that our leadership structure evolves to reflect our ambitious growth strategy.

DERTOUR Group / Human Resources

New Leadership at DERTOUR Group in Germany: Boris Raoul to head German and Austrian Business, Georg Welbers to become Chief Sales Officer

DERTOUR Group is adapting its top management structure in response to its strong international growth. The expansion of the international Executive Board announced today follows the acquisition of Hotelplan in August 2025, through which the company has grown to around 200 subsidiaries and 15,000 employees worldwide. Changes at the Executive Board level are being implemented to support collaboration across regions and business segments. Against the backdrop of ongoing technological change, digital transformation is also becoming increasingly important for the organization.

DERTOUR Group / DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts

DERTOUR Group Hotel Division Receives Dedicated Executive Board Role

Following the acquisition of Hotelplan in August 2025, DERTOUR Group is expanding its Executive Board: The changes announced today reflect the strong international growth of recent years and place customer-centricity, profitable growth, and technological innovation at the center. This also brings changes at the helm of the Hotel Division, further strengthening the hotel business as a strategic growth area for DERTOUR Group. The hotel business will gain a dedicated role within the Executive Board: Executive Board member Ingo Burmester will take over the management of the hotel business from Karl J. Pojer as of 1 November 2025, with Pojer moving to the role of Senior Advisor DERTOUR Group.

Stories

Apollo wins “Best Brand in the Travel Industry” at Evimetrix Swedish Brand Award 2025

Apollo has been named the “Best Brand in the Travel Industry” at the 2025 Evimetrix Swedish Brand Award. This award is based on one of Sweden’s largest independent brand surveys, and it confirms Apollo’s strong position in the Swedish travel market. Every year, the Evimetrix Swedish Brand Award is given based on the opinions of over 6,000 Swedish consumers who review more than 500 brands. The award recognizes brands that excel in both awareness and customer satisfaction – this recognition highlights Apollo’s commitment to providing excellent travel experiences, and the trust and loyalty it has earned from its travelers.

Stories

Beyond travel: Building communities and protecting nature through tourism

Tourism is often seen as a way to explore new destinations, but its potential goes much further. When developed responsibly, tourism can strengthen communities, create education and employment opportunities, and support the protection of nature. In line with the theme of this year’s World Tourism Day, Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, which took place between September 27th-29th, the DERTOUR Foundation is proud to share how partners around the world are turning tourism into a tool for long-term progress.

News
DERTOUR Group

Kuoni France Group announces leadership transition: Emmanuel Foiry to retire, Gonzague de Gélis appointed as successor 

Kuoni France Group, a DERTOUR Group company, today announced a planned leadership transition. After 30 years at the head of the company, Emmanuel Foiry, Chairman of Kuoni France Group, will step down from his role on 31 December 2025. He will continue to serve as Strategic Advisor to the Chairman throughout 2026. Gonzague de Gélis, currently Chief Financial Officer of Kuoni France Group, has been appointed to succeed him as Chairman, effective 01.01.2026. 
The transition marks a significant chapter in the company’s journey, highlighting its rich history as an iconic travel brand.

Stories

From Mangroves to medals: How Sri Lanka’s children became environmental pioneers

When the DERTOUR Foundation began supporting mangrove conservation in Sri Lanka (read about it here), our vision went beyond protecting coastal ecosystems. We knew that true change comes when communities are given the tools to care for their environment.

That’s why awareness and education programs became just as central as conservation work. And this year, we witnessed the extraordinary impact of that approach.
Across Sri Lanka, thousands of students take part in the Environmental Pioneer Programme, an initiative of the Central Environmental Authority launched in 1984.

DERTOUR Group

Acquisition completed: DERTOUR Group acquires entire Hotelplan Group, excluding Interhome

Following the approval by the relevant competition authorities, DERTOUR Group has completed the acquisition of four of the five business units of the Hotelplan Group, an international travel group specialising in leisure and business travel. This includes the entire travel retail and tour operator business of Hotelplan Group in Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The holiday home specialist Interhome, is excluded. The travel brands of Hotelplan Group will remain and are joining the tourism network of the DERTOUR Group, which is already represented in 16 source markets with over 180 companies.

DERTOUR Group

UK Market – Acquisition completed: DERTOUR Group acquires entire Hotelplan Group, excluding Interhome

Following the approval by the relevant competition authorities, DERTOUR Group has completed the acquisition of four of the five business units of the Hotelplan Group, an international travel group specialising in leisure and business travel. This includes the entire travel retail and tour operator business of Hotelplan Group in Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The holiday home specialist Interhome, is excluded. The travel brands of Hotelplan Group will remain and join the tourism network of the DERTOUR Group, which is already represented in 16 source markets with over 180 companies.

DERTOUR Group

STATEMENT from Christoph Debus on the antitrust clearance of the Hotelplan acquisition

In May, the Swiss Competition Commission announced an in-depth review of DERTOUR Group’s planned acquisition of the Hotelplan Group (with the exception of Interhome). After a three-month investigation, the Swiss Competition Commission announced today that it has approved the transaction without conditions or obligations. Accordingly, DERTOUR Group has now obtained all necessary merger control clearances.

Stories

#MachtOffline: Social media campaign for digital time-out brings DERTOUR fourfold award success

No posts. No stories. No explanation. This is exactly what led to one of DERTOUR’s most native social media campaigns – a clear statement in favour of digital time-outs, real relaxation and a message that captures the spirit of the times.

What caused a stir in the community in May 2024 is a multi-award-winning beacon of the industry in summer 2025. #MachtOffline was honoured with four of the most important communication awards in the German-speaking world – the 916 Award, the DPOK and the German Brand Award (double honour) – for creative excellence, strategic impact and emotional brand management.

Taucher reinigt Korallen im Korallen-Nursery auf den Malediven mit einer Bürste
Stories

Tourism with purpose: The DERTOUR Foundation’s new projects at a glance

In 2025, we are proud to announce four new projects that embody this purpose. Whether in coastal Egypt, island communities in the Indian and Caribbean oceans, or rural towns in southern Europe and Southeast Asia, these projects demonstrate how the tourism sector can support local resilience, promote inclusive economic participation, and help restore fragile ecosystems.

Each initiative is shaped by strong local partnerships and backed by DERTOUR Group’s commitment to integrating sustainability into every step of the travel experience—from the hotels we offer, to the excursions we promote, to the way we engage with destination communities.

DERTOUR Group

STATEMENT: Christoph Debus, CEO DERTOUR Group, on the business development of DERTOUR Group in 2024 

In the 2024 financial year, the DERTOUR Group benefited from the continued widespread appetite for travel in Europe. Despite challenging times, we were once again able to record a strong increase in demand for travel. As the focus on material goods is decreasing, the importance of experiences continues to grow. Especially in times of change and digital distance, consumers are consciously investing in their well-being.

DERTOUR Group

Travel buzz amongst Europeans continues: DERTOUR Group reports strong growth in 2024 and optimistic outlook for 2025

As a leading name in the travel and tourism sector, DERTOUR Group shares its latest insights into the European travel market at the international travel and trade show, ITB, in Berlin: Operating in 16 European source markets with over 130 travel companies and boasting a team of over 10,000 professionals, the Group was able to profit from a strong demand for travel in 2024, leading to a positive forecast for the year 2025.

DERTOUR Group

Sebastian Spratte Appointed Chief Financial Officer of DERTOUR Group Hotel Division

Effective April 1, 2025, Sebastian Spratte will be appointed Chief Financial Officer of the DERTOUR Group Hotel Division. Additionally, he will become a member of the Aldiana management team, succeeding Max-Peter Droll, who will take over the role as Senior Advisor Hotels & Resorts. In this dual role, Spratte will report directly to Karl J. Pojer, CEO of the DERTOUR Group Hotel Division. 

DERTOUR Group

DERTOUR Group takes over Hotelplan Group, with the exception of Interhome

DERTOUR Group acquires the entire Hotelplan Group from Migros, with the exception of Interhome, thereby strengthening its presence as a travel group in Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Germany. The DERTOUR Group is already represented in 16 countries with over 130 companies and more than 10,000 employees. The takeover will take place as soon as possible – subject to the approval of the relevant antitrust authorities.

DERTOUR Group

DERTOUR Group takes over Hotelplan Group, with the exception of Interhome

DERTOUR Group acquires the entire Hotelplan Group from Migros, with the exception of Interhome, thereby strengthening its presence as a travel group in Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Germany. The DERTOUR Group is already represented in 16 countries with over 130 companies and more than 10,000 employees. The takeover will take place as soon as possible – subject to the approval of the relevant antitrust authorities.

DERTOUR Group

Proširenje specijalizirane ponude putovanja: DERTOUR Group preuzima I.D. Riva Tours, turoperatoraspecijaliziranog za putovanja u Hrvatsku

„DERTOUR Deutschland GmbH“ preuzima specijaliziranog organizatora putovanja – turoperatora I.D. Riva Tours te time jača svoju ponudu u segmentu specijaliziranih putovanja. I.D. Riva Tours sa 55 zaposlenika, jedan je od najpoznatijih organizatora putovanja u Hrvatsku, s fokusom na krstarenja malim brodovima, grupna putovanja te iznajmljivanje kuća za odmor i apartmana.

DERTOUR Group

Expansion of Specialist Travel Portfolio: DERTOUR Germany acquires specialist for Croatia travelI.D. Riva Tours

DERTOUR Deutschland GmbH acquires the specialist tour operator I.D. Riva Tours and is thereby strengthening its offering in the specialist travel segment. I.D. Riva Tours, with 55 employees, is one of the most renowned providers of travel to Croatia, focusing on cruises on small ships, group travel, as well as holiday homes and apartments. Subject to antitrust approvals, the takeover is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2025.

DERTOUR Group

Change in the Executive Board of DERTOUR Group: Christoph Debus takes over as CEO

With effect from March 1, 2025, Christoph Debus will become CEO of the DERTOUR Group. Debus will lead the international tourism group with over 10,000 employees as Chairman of the Executive Board of the DERTOUR Group together with Dr. Ingo Burmester, CEO Central Europe, Patrick Lambertz, CFO from January 1, 2025, and Leif Vase Larsen, CEO International. Debus will also be a member of REWE Group’s extended Management Board team as Divisional Director for Tourism.

DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts / Aldiana

DERTOUR Hotel Division continues to invest in club brand Aldiana: Exclusive resorts acquired in Italy and Spain

DERTOUR Hotel Division continues to invest in the premium club brand Aldiana and acquires two exclusive resorts in Spain and Italy. With effect from year-end, the DERTOUR Hotel Division is taking over the former LABRANDA Rocca Nettuno Tropea hotel from the FTI Group. Aldiana is thus expanding its portfolio with an exclusive resort in Calabria, the southernmost region of the Italian mainland.

Stories

From Vision to Community Transformation: Smiling Gecko and DERTOUR Foundation’s Journey

As the DERTOUR Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we would like to introduce you to Smiling Gecko, a Swiss aid organisation which aims to support rural development in Cambodia.
The Smiling Gecko project has positively impacted the lives of socially disadvantaged Cambodians. A Swiss social entrepreneur, artist, and photographer, Hannes Schmid founded this aid project to help those living in impoverished conditions near Phnom Penh. Over a 150-hectare site, the project employs a holistic approach to uplift the community and provide opportunities and resources.

DERTOUR Group

Change in the Leadership Team of DERTOUR Germany and DERTOUR Central Europe

Effective January 1, 2025, Stefan Römheld, Chief Financial Officer DERTOUR Central Europe, will be appointed to the executive management of DERTOUR Germany as well as DERTOUR Central Europe.
“Stefan Römheld brings extensive experience and a proven track record from recent years. We are confident that he, with his strategic mindset, will help ensure our company’s continued growth in the future.”

Stories

Ensuring Ecosystem Balance: WORC and DERTOUR Foundation’s Mangrove Conservation

As the DERTOUR Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we would like to introduce you to the Wildlife and Ocean Resource Conservation (WORC), an organization that has been at the forefront of ecosystem conservation in Sri Lanka. Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems, offering protection against erosion, filtering pollutants, and serving as carbon sinks. WORC’s innovative approach involves planting mangrove trees strategically to create natural barriers, fostering growth and mitigating the impact of motorized boats that often threaten these delicate ecosystems.

DERTOUR Group / Human Resources

Change in the Executive Board of DERTOUR Group: Patrick Lambertz succeeds Boris Schnabel as CFO Group

Effective January 1, 2025, Patrick Lambertz will join DERTOUR Group from the REWE Group and take over the role of CFO Group from Boris Schnabel. As a member of the Executive Board of DERTOUR Group, he will form the operational leadership team of the international tourism group, together with Dr. Ingo Burmester, CEO Central Europe, and Leif Vase Larsen, CEO International.

Hundetraining Wildspürhund
Stories

Protecting Wildlife: Endangered Wildlife Trust and DERTOUR Foundation’s Joint Conservation Efforts

As the DERTOUR Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we celebrate the remarkable work of the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), one of the largest and most respected biodiversity conservation NGOs in southern Africa.
Since its inception in 1973, the EWT has continually expanded its efforts to protect ecosystems and species across Southern and East Africa. Their mission is to safeguard wildlife for the benefit of animals, people, and nature alike.

DERTOUR Group

DERTOUR Group acquires IT and digital development company Anixe

Subject to the antitrust clearance by the relevant competition authorities, the DERTOUR Group is acquiring the technology company Anixe, headquartered in Wroclaw (Poland), from the Munich-based FTI Group. With Anixe, a leading technology provider in the travel sector, the DERTOUR Group further expands its technological and digital expertise, laying the foundation for future content enhancements in the booking and distribution systems.

Stories

Empowering Thailand’s Disadvantaged Youth: Pimali and DERTOUR Foundation Team Up

As the DERTOUR Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we celebrate the remarkable work of the Pimali Association and its impact on the lives of disadvantaged youth in Thailand.

Founded in 2013 by Stéphanie des Arts-Loup and Alexandre des Arts, Pimali is dedicated to equipping young people with the skills and opportunities needed to build successful futures.
Through comprehensive training, the organization empowers young people, helping them escape cycles of poverty and exploitation.

Stories

Reviving Education in Camagüey: DERTOUR Foundation’s Partnership with FLY & Help

Today, we shine a spotlight on the DERTOUR Foundation’s 10-year anniversary, focusing on the partnership with the Reiner Meutsch Foundation FLY & HELP. Together, we are dedicated to improving education through the renovation project of the “Juan Manuel Viamonte” elementary school in Cuba. In the vibrant city of Camagüey, nestled in the heart of Cuba, lies the “Juan Manuel Viamonte” elementary school, a cornerstone of the community since the 1970s. Over the years, this institution has seen generations of children pass through its doors.

Stories

Protecting Sea Turtles: DEKAFOK and DERTOUR Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Efforts

Today, we are highlighting DEKAFOK as part of our “10 Faces” series, which honours the DERTOUR Foundation’s 10-year anniversary. DEKAFOK is a key partner dedicated to protecting sea turtles on the Turkish Mediterranean coast – this is their story of conservation and community engagement.
The Turkish Mediterranean coast, a popular tourist destination, also serves as a nesting site for two of the seven sea turtle species; these include the loggerhead turtle and the green sea turtle. In particular, Titreyengöl beach, is a nesting area for these endangered animals.

Stories

Maasai Women’s Education Centre: DER Touristik Foundation Collaborates with ECLAT to Empower Women in Tanzania

As the DER Touristik Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we would like to introduce you to the Maasai Women’s Education Centre in Tanzania, which supports the education of women and girls.  

Traditionally, women have few rights among the Maasai in Tanzania. They are usually married off during adolescence and then must care for themselves and their children.

DERTOUR Foundation Projekt Malediven Korallen
Stories

Restoring Coral Reefs: DER Touristik Foundation’s Collaboration with Maldives Coral Institute

As the DER Touristik Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we would like to introduce you to Maldives Coral Institute (MCI), a science-led organisation that aims to help coral reefs to survive and adapt to the changing climate.
Their mission is to research, develop and implement the means to build coral resilience, mitigate adverse human impact and save our corals and reefs from irreversible loss and degradation.

Baraka Lazaro_Berufsbildungszentrum im Simanjiro-Distrikt
Stories / Sustainability

Transforming Lives through Vocational Training: DER Touristik Foundation’s partnership with ECLAT and upendo

As the DER Touristik Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners. Today, we would like to introduce you to ECLAT, a non-profit, non-governmental organisation which is committed to improving life in poor communities in Tanzania, and upendo e.V., a Germany-based charity which supports development projects in Africa.

Stories / Sustainability

Celebrating A Decade of Empowerment: KOTO and DER Touristik Foundation

As the DER Touristik Foundation reaches the remarkable milestone of a decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on our valued partners, and one that holds a special place in our hearts is KOTO. Celebrating over 25 years of dedication to its cause, KOTO, founded by the visionary Jimmy Pham, spans its influence from Vietnam to Australia, embodying the ethos of “Know One, Teach One.”

Pojer, Karl J. / CEO DT Hotel Division
DERTOUR Group

Karl J. Pojer appointed new CEO of DERTOUR Group Hotel Division

With immediate effect, Karl. J. Pojer will be overseeing the entire Hotel Division of DER Touristik Group. With extensive management experience in the international hotel and cruise industry, he will head up one of DER Touristik Group’s main growth areas. As the new CEO of DERTOUR Group Hotel Division, Mr. Pojer will report to Dr. Ingo Burmester, CEO Central Europe and Member of the Executive Board of DERTOUR Group.

DERTOUR Group / DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts

Expanded position in the market for land-based travel: DERTOUR Group acquires a majority stake in DR Hospitality

DERTOUR Group has just made another major investment in its growing hotel business and increased its holdings in the market for land-based travel. The hotel division of the DERTOUR Group, DER Touristik Hotel & Resorts GmbH (Cologne), has acquired a majority stake in DR Hospitality GmbH & Co. KG, a company based in the northeastern German city of Rostock.