Inbound industry association, SATSA, launched its new international associate membership this month.

SATSA CEO, David Frost, said the international associate membership would connect agents, operators and DMCs around the world with South Africa’s tourism industry, providing them with access to knowledge, research and the resources of South Africa’s official inbound tourism associations.

“SATSA is engaged in the main thrust of getting the tourism industry to be treated in a competitive way, which benefits South African members, but also players around the world involved in bringing people to South Africa,” said Frost.

By expanding the membership internationally, Frost highlights the benefit of having access to initiatives such as the virtual familiarisation trips hosted by SATSA, up-to-date communications in real time and access to the SATSA database.

“With access to real-time information and hard facts at your disposal, your ability to conclude a transaction with a prospective customer who is unsure about travelling to South Africa increases substantially as you’re able to allay their fears immediately,” he pointed out.

Helen Bolton New Frontiers Tours Sales Manager said: “We rely heavily on SATSA for its government lobbying, incredibly good communication and crisis response. SATSA creates an environment where it is conducive to doing business by tackling the issues head on, smoothing the road for industry and keeping us informed.”

Private Safaris CEO for Southern Africa, Monika Iuel, pointed out that the SATSA platform provided members with the ability to keep customers informed. “But more still, to experience another major opportunity which SATSA provides, and that is being able to fully enjoy the benefits of being part of one big community in a positive context, rather than in a crisis.”

Founder and CEO of MORE Family Collection, Rob More, agreed. “The DNA has changed within SATSA. David is in the trenches and constantly fighting and I am inspired, motivated and appreciative of his efforts. While he is at the helm, this is an association we want to belong to.”