International Inbound Travel Association
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 | This article contains promotional content. (March 2012) |
The Receptive Services Association of American (aka RSAA or RSA) www.rsaa.org is a 501(c)6 trade association of major North American–based receptive tour operator companies and suppliers (hotels, restaurants, attractions, destination marketing organizations, etc.). Based in Lexington, Kentucky, RSAA is the leading trade association focused on inbound travel to the United States.
The Association has three general types of members:
Regular Members are major international inbound receptive tour companies. Associate Members are tour suppliers, such as hotels, attractions, and restaurants. Sustaining Members are leading tour suppliers that comprise the Supplier Advisory Board, which provides advice and input to the association's elected Board of Directors.
History
Beginning as RSA in 1991, RSAA was formed to bring together major receptive tour operators and suppliers in the New York and New Jersey region. As a result of continuing interest and growth from across the country, RSA grew into a national organization.
RSA joined forces with ITSA, the International Travel Services Association to form RSAA in September, 2004. ITSA was formed and founded in 1993, by receptive tour operators and destination management companies to create a united voice to address issues of importance, educational opportunities, and networking with new business partners.
In 2012, RSAA became the first travel association to enter into a strategic partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service. This partnership helps RSAA and the U.S. Commercial Service promote travel to the United States and enable international operators to form relationships with U.S. receptive operators.
Inbound International Travel
Today, RSAA represents the major inbound operators in the United States who inbound package tour business in the United States. These receptive operators form a vital link in the inbound travel supply chain by providing travel products and services for international visitors.
RSAA's members bring more than 8 million visitors to the United States each year. These visitors spend nearly $6 billion on their travel related services.
RSAA also addresses economic and public policy issues affecting tourism at local, state, and federal levels. It is interested in building awareness of the unique role receptives play in linking suppliers from all parts of the United States with the global travel industry.
On August 22, 2011, RSAA announced that it had formed a strategic partnership with VISIT USA - Europe.
On April 12, 2012, the association changed its bylaws in order to create an international membership class.
Governance
RSAA's Mission Statement is:
To serve as the voice of the U.S. inbound travel industry, promote professional excellence, and create a collaborative atmosphere for all companies and entities involved in the U.S. inbound travel industry.
The chairman of the association is Jonathan Zuk of Amadeo Travel Solutions and the executive director is Matt Grayson. RSAA offices are located in Lexington, Kentucky. The association is governed by a board of directors that consists of 14 members, supported by an Advisory Board currently consisting of 13 suppliers. The association is managed by Associations International.