The Canadian chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) has announced a new incentive program to welcome both travel agents with extensive social media presence and travel industry public relations professionals into its ranks.

Founded in 1955, the prestigious association connects public relations practitioners in the travel industry (including tourist boards, VCBs, hotels and transportation companies) with travel media (including print, digital and broadcast platforms). Media members include travel professionals with significant social media audiences, freelance travel writers, photographers, and travel editors.

SATW members enjoy a host of benefits from first-rate professional development sessions, invaluable networking, a range of discounts on travel-related products, and annual conventions in destinations as diverse as New Zealand, Switzerland, Barbados, China, and Colombia.

“Our members across Canada tell us they appreciate that the society opens the door to a huge range of contacts throughout the States and Canada,” says Martha Chapman, chair of the Canadian chapter. “And because we qualify every member, membership confers instant credibility.”

The chapter’s goal of elevating the profession while providing Canadian-specific content to members here also resonates with members, she adds.

The Canadian chapter’s executive includes well-known members in the industry including Ursula Beamish Mader, well known for her service to Switzerland Tourism, and Carolyn Ray, editor of Journeywoman, a leading site for solo female travellers.

Effective until the end of 2022, a Canadian “Dollars at Par” program means that new Canadian members will receive a 22% discount off both their application and membership fee. For travel agents that totals US$215 (use code: CANADAACTIVE2022). With the discount, publicists would pay US$363 (code CANADAASSOCIATE2022).

For more information, visit satw.org or email mchapman@tourismmarketing.ca.