Trust Matters: Why CRTA and Industry Association Memberships Are Essential in Today’s Digital Age

In the digital age, where every brand and experience can be Googled in seconds, credibility and reputation are everything — especially in the vacation ownership and timeshare industry. As trusted advisors to vacation ownership members, VOA believes that affiliation with respected industry associations isn’t just beneficial — it’s essential.

Every year, millions of Canadians travel to Mexico for sun-soaked, fun-filled vacations. Along the way, many are invited to attend a timeshare presentation — sometimes at the airport, on the beach, in a shopping mall, or even while casually walking through town. These moments are often spontaneous, and the first impression of the brand being presented is everything.

For many Canadians, the resort brand name may not be familiar, especially if the developer or sales company has limited presence in Canada. The first thing most people do. They search the name online — looking for legitimacy, reviews, and trust signals. This is where the power of association membership becomes a game-changer.

Why Being Part of Associations Like CRTA, ACOTUR, AMDETUR, and ARDA Matters

These respected organizations — including the Canadian Resort & Travel Association (CRTA), ARDA, ACOTUR, and AMDETUR — stand for high ethical standards, verified business practices, and a commitment to consumer protection. Membership signifies that a resort, sales team, or service provider is accountable, vetted, and aligned with transparent, customer-first values.

For example, CRTA membership ensures that the resort and its affiliated services meet Canadian-approved standards of professionalism, compliance, and ethics. At VOA, we believe that any resort offering tours or presentations to Canadian families should seek CRTA certification — not just as a badge, but as a promise.

Visibility and Trust Where It Counts

Displaying a CRTA certificate at check-in desks, sales galleries, or even within marketing materials targeting Canadian tourists immediately builds confidence. It lets prospective owners know they are dealing with a reputable, recognized entity. It removes hesitation, builds comfort, and ultimately leads to more meaningful conversations — and sales.

In a highly competitive and sometimes skeptical marketplace, transparency builds conversions. A simple sign of verified credibility can be the deciding factor between someone walking away or staying for a presentation that leads to ownership.

Reputation is the New Currency

For those of us who have spent years on marketing teams and sales floors, we know the truth: nothing builds faster rapport than credibility. In an environment where consumers are becoming more informed and more cautious, especially in foreign markets, displaying affiliations with certified associations is no longer optional — it’s strategic.

This kind of credibility starts before the handshake and continues throughout the ownership journey. Canadian travelers are savvy, and rightly so. Giving them every reason to feel secure in your brand’s integrity leads to better tours, better experiences, and stronger owner relationships.

VOA’s Commitment to Industry Ethics

VOA proudly stands as a certified member of CRTA, and we take that responsibility seriously. We support and uphold the ethical standards outlined by the organization, and we encourage every resort, sales team, and developer to do the same — especially those engaging Canadian families.

Our goal at VOA is to help families get the most value and enjoyment out of their vacation ownership; while ensuring they are working with credible, ethical partners. Through education, member services, and advocacy, we are proud to be a trusted voice in this evolving industry.

In Closing

The timeshare industry thrives on relationships — and relationships are built on trust. In today’s world of online research and reputation management, aligning with associations like CRTA, AMDETUR, ACOTUR, and ARDA is not only smart — it’s a sign of long-term vision.

At VOA, we lead with integrity and stand proudly with those who do the same.