How TA’s can help save the world
Destination management company (DMC) EXO Travel has unveiled its shiny new way for travel agents booking responsible travel and hospitality -- giving them the power to help save the planet,…
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Technology
“If you are another nondescript branded hotel they will not even remember your name”: The Hotels Network CEO
For this week's podcast, I spoke to Juanjo Rodriguez, the CEO of The Hotels Network, a company delivering a hotel tech ecosystem that increases direct channel conversions.
Travelport NDC comes to UK Travel Agents
Good news for TA’s as Travelport revealed new partnerships with a number of big name agencies, to roll out the New Distribution Capability (NDC), giving participants access to the enhanced…
Travel tech this week: AirAsia’s AVA, CashlessSentosa, and more
This week, we saw how companies made use of technology to improve their services, making it convenient for their customers. AirAsia introduced its AI chatbot and Triptease announced…
Netflix and ride? Grab adds a streaming service to its app
Grab added Netflix-like video-on-demand service HOOQ into its core ride-hailing app. The company, which is valued at USD 11 billion and raising a USD 5 billion round, already offers a range…
Klook couples Old World train travel with new-school tech
Klook, the Hong Kong tour and experiences booking app which has been making waves throughout Asia for the last 18 months, has entered into a new relationship with Rail Europe, bound to cause…
Augmented Reality: TUI trials next-gen tech with Mixed Reality I/O
TUI Destination Experiences, under TUI Group, has announced the testing of augmented reality (AR) tech in its next generation of experiences.
Top 5 hotel industry challenges to conquer in 2019
Roiback, a company that specialises in powering direct sales for hotels, has underlined the challenges that the hotel industry faces in 2019.
CoRover shows how to travel solo but not alone
Solo travellers face risks for they are alone during the trip, especially at the time of emergencies.
Unexplored: 10 overlooked cities reimagined as video game locations
Currys PC World has created an interactive map to reimagine 10 overlooked cities around the world as video game locations.
Traveltek founder and CEO Kenny Picken to retire
Coming just a week after the resignation of senior vice president of sales Francis Riley, Traveltek’s founder and CEO Kenny Picken has now announced his plans to retire after sixteen years…
iQIYI and chill: Ctrip hooks up with Chinese Netflix
Chinese online booking platform Ctrip has shown a commitment to improving the travel experience of its customers this week by hooking up with online entertainment service iQIYI – to provide…
“Avoid humans at all cost”: Sabre predicts consumer trends in 2019
Tech provider to the travel industry, Sabre, along with consumer trends and insights firm, TrendWatching, have predicted the top consumer trends this year.
Travel tech this week: From adrenaline junkie’s dream to packing calculator
This week, we saw technological improvements in aviation and financial sectors. How great is it that you can calculate how heavy your carry-on is or travel the world’s most dangerous road at…
Travelstop marks major expansion in Asia
Singapore-based business travel start-up Travelstop is launching in seven markets including Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam.
Infographic: The new engine driving Chinese outbound travel
Alipay, in collaboration with Nielsen, has discovered that Chinese tourists from second-tier cities have become the new engine driving the Chinese outbound tourism market, as part of their…
How TripClub values women and their need of work and life balance
For TripClub CEO and founder Menchie Dizon, women deserve to have both worlds so she created a program that will enable women to work and take care of their personal affairs. As a woman, she…
Data-fuelled guide reveals best strategy to drive repeat bookings
Revinate has launched the 2019 Guide to Hotel Loyalty, analysing loyalty programs of over 200 hotel groups to uncover industry best practices.
Travel tech this week: It’s raining green for start-ups
This week we saw numerous travel tech start-ups receive millions of funding from different funding rounds. Start-ups rely on investments to foster growth.
GrabJobs disrupts old school recruitment process in SEA
Finding a job has never been this easy for both job seekers and employers. Singapore-based GrabJobs is making a fuss in the recruitment scene with their interview chatbot technology.
Hands off! ANA drives industry forward with automated bus
Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) has announced the second phase of its testing for an autonomous, driverless bus at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.
“Culture is the key” says Amadeus’ HR mandarin
With employees always on the lookout for new opportunities to develop their life experiences as much as their career, the responsibility of human resources to find, develop and retain a…
Bedsonline forges online transition with commission campaign
Bedsonline has announced the ‘overwhelming success’ of its holiday season +3% commission campaign — a step towards the full transition to its new platform.
Go-Jek operates in Singapore after roadblock in the Philippines
Indonesian unicorn Go-Jek has opened its app to passengers in Singapore after it hits a roadblock in the Philippines.
RoomIt by CWT partners with SiteMinder
RoomIt by CWT, the global hotel distribution division of Carlson Wagonlit Travel, and SiteMinder has announced a strategic partnership in the corporate travel distribution chain.
Not your average ‘golf carts’: Multimobby improves mobility at Heathrow
OmniServ and London’s Heathrow Airport have introduced new Multimobby electric vehicles to improve passenger's mobility through the airport.
Travel tech this week: Google’s voice assistant for airlines and hotels and more
This week, we see airlines and airports investing in various technology to continuously improve travel experience. We also see road transportation companies take great strides to develop…
UK’s first battery-powered hotel charges up
The Gyle Premier Inn at Edinburgh Park has installed a five-tonne battery to conserve around GBP 20,000 in energy costs every year.
Travel tech this week: Start-ups Grab, Nezasa, AvantStay secure millions and more
It is that time of the week again. This time, we saw millions being secured by start-ups hinting the forthcoming innovations in various sectors.
Get personal: The new mantra of Indian travel startups
Abhas Desai, co-founder of Taxidio Travel India— a DIY travel planner shares his thoughts on travel startups in India and what's in store for them in 2019.
2018 in review: Movers and shakers in the hotel space
Mergers, acquisitions, and billion-dollar funding rounds — so much have happened in 2018 and so I’ve thought of compiling them into one bite-sized piece.
20 trend reports in 1: What travel will look like in 2019
Flooded with trend reports at the end of the year? TD has a special New Year's gift-- the lord of all trends reports to keep you on top of your game in 2019.
Hotel channel managers: Key providers and how to choose one
In one Hotel Hell episode, lodge guests had to search for a front desk employee by themselves. Eventually, a bartender checked them in with a pen and notebook…
Travel tech this week: Elon Musk’s solution to LA’s “soul-destroying traffic” and more
This week saw TPConnects, BA, Mindtree and the Boring Company make waves in the world of tech.
Hotel revenue management: Solutions, best practices and revenue managers’ roles
Hotel revenue management, the facets that shape it, and the most effective revenue-increasing strategies.
Emirates declares war on delays
Emirates has declared a war on delays at Dubai International Airport this week by announcing the introduction of some new tech, built by the carriers own in-house development team, dubbed…
GDS holiday revelations: Travelport’s top ten destinations for the UK
Travel commerce platform Travelport has revealed the most popular long-haul destinations for travellers in the UK this festive season.
Travel tech this week: Google and Airbnb’s new acquisitions and more
This week, we saw travel tech giants acquire smaller companies to fuel their growth and industry leaders drive innovation.
Virgin Holidays harnesses the power of social media with Trending Travel Guide
Virgin Holidays has launched the Trending Travel Guide – a digital platform that updates daily to give real-time holiday recommendations.
Plan B in case your Christmas travel plans fail
Have you lost money because you could not travel and had a non-refundable flight or a hotel reservation? You are not alone. Millions of people lose money on their unused travel bookings…
A smarter way to site-see: Now offered by Vidi Guides
75% of Millennials rely on Wikipedia or Google as their source of information, but these are not designed for sightseeing. So how does one filter the information especially while in a new…
4 essential steps for implementing NDC
New Distribution Capability (NDC) is poised to have far-reaching effects on the travel industry, and will potentially transform airline retailing for the better. Getting started with NDC can…
Traveloka reportedly acquires PegiPegi and two other rivals for USD 66.8 million
A report has surfaced that the Indonesian travel tech unicorn Traveloka has long acquired some of its rivals in Southeast Asia through a Singapore-based shell company named Jet Tech…
SIA: Key pillar of digital transformation will “truly transform the way offers are created”
Amadeus and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have unveiled their upgraded partnership this morning with the announcement that the airline has fully integrated the Amadeus Altéa NDC and Amadeus…
Amadeus makes a point with new loyalty partnership
Amadeus and new partner Points International, a loyalty commerce firm, have unveiled their new strategic agreement to provide airlines to combine Amadeus’ Loyalty Management and Awards and…
Rough riders: IATA introduces real-time turbulence forecasting
IATA (International Air Transport Association) has announced the launch of its new Turbulence Aware tool. The new resource has been developed to strengthen carrier’s ability to forecast,…
Latest travel tech: Hotelchamp’s Autopilot, B Infinite loyalty program, and more
It has been an interesting week in travel with Hotelchamp putting direct bookings on autopilot and well-known brand Best Western’s new website for hotel developers and owners.
Great Hotels of the World sees investment boost in next two years
Great Hotels of the World (GHOTW), recently acquired by GuestCentric, will receive over EUR 3 million investment over the next two years.
Singapore Airlines uses real time data feedback to take control
Singapore Airlines (SIA) launched its brand new operations management system today.
“Better tech, faster speeds and new revenue streams”: The future of inflight connectivity
The future passenger experience will be complemented by better tech, faster speeds and new revenue streams for airlines, writes Ben Griffin, Inmarsat's vice president for aviation in the MEA…
Hotelbeds: Year-end review and forecast trends for 2019
Tech provider and distributor Hotelbeds has released industry comments and insights about the year in travel and its forecasts for 2019.
Uber, Lyft IPO in 2019: The Ali-Frazier of Wall Street
Dubbed as the most-anticipated IPO filing, Uber and Lyft generated excitement among investors with their news about going public.
Orion Span launches crowdfunding campaign for luxury space hotel
Space tourism company Orion Span has announced a crowdfunding campaign for its luxury space hotel Aurora Station, launching in 2022.
Integrating hardware with ‘heartware’: Tencent partners with Shangri-La Group
Chinese tech giant Tencent and Shangri-La Group have announced the signing of a strategic partnership to deploy ‘Smart Hotel’ solutions.
ITL World builds on global network with Sabre Red Workspace
ITL World, a travel management company in the Middle East, has created a roadmap for the inclusion of NDC to address the industry’s current distribution limitations.
Turn disaster into an opportunity: Lessons from Marriott data breach
While it is a hard time for Marriott since its credibility has been damaged, the hospitality group just gained an opportunity to turn the tables and rise above the challenge.
IATA suspends Zuji’s air booking license
Zuji, an online travel booking platform has abruptly stalled its airline booking operations in Singapore and Hong Kong.
Crucial questions still cloud NDC
Critics of NDC claimed that while the objective of NDC and airlines are fair, many things are still left in the dark, especially the impact to travellers.
30 million pilgrims by 2030: Saudi Arabia Ministry partners with Agoda
Agoda and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) supporting the Kingdom’s vision of 2030.
In travel tech this week: THAI, Babbel, Hahn Air and more
Latest technologies are continuously transforming the travel industry. This week, airlines and airports turn to technology to improve their services, a language app that dives into travel,…
Seamless order servicing matters in NDC-driven space
IATA’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) ensures that airlines can distribute rich content across all channels, but the offer is just the starting point of a satisfactory service. It is of…
G Adventures acquires UK-based youth travel specialist, TruTravels
G Adventures, a small group adventure travel operator offering more than 700 tours in 100 countries, announced the acquisition of UK-based youth travel specialist, TruTravels.
Telephone channel is still king for hotel bookings
With the advent of the latest technology and AI-powered chatbots, use of mobile bookings and other reservation options are becoming popular in hotels. Some hotels have stopped paying any…
Save time, make money: Instaroom’s AI bot powers direct bookings for hotels
Personalisation is key in the hospitality sector and we are increasingly seeing new tech developments facilitate the service-heavy industry and how.
SBC Travel yearns to streamline payments in travel with blockchain
SBC Travel hasn’t been launched officially yet, but it already gained a lot of traction due to its recent acquisitions.
Trivago confesses to false advertising in Australia
Trivago has admitted that it led customers into believing that the results page shows the lowest prices in the “more deals” section.
Deal or no deal: eNett CEO on his once-in-a-lifetime pitch in a taxi
They say that you should know your business inside out for you will never know when an opportunity strikes. Learn from Anthony Hynes, founder and CEO of payment firm eNett, who seized his…
“Visit Helsinki from the comfort of one’s own sofa” with VR Helsinki
Nearly every industry leader and veteran has been talking about the new technological advancements and emerging ones like VR/AR will impact the travel industry. With VR-Helsinki, the capital…
Traveloka co-founder bids goodbye and sparks rumours of internal conflict
Traveloka’s co-founder and chief technology officer Derianto Kusuma has resigned from the company, effective on 30 November, he co-founded after seven years saying “this game is no longer…
Travel tech this week: Instaroom new AI, BoG in Europe, and more
Digital disruption is not too far from the travel industry either. We scout the latest happenings in the travel tech world each week. Here are the five tech developments of this week.
Qantas welcomes first TMC in new NDC-fied booking platform
Qantas has revealed the first Australian travel management company that can now book flights through the airline’s new technology platform.
Taking the next step: Bidroom co-founders bring new leadership to fuel growth
One of the major challenges for start-ups is how to take the business to the next level and foster growth. The two common reasons why start-ups fail are lack of funding and lack of…
Indian TA’s hit back at Air India’s exclusive GDS deal with Travelport
Following the news in October that UK-based Travelport had won the contract to become the sole provider of Air India’s GDS, the nation’s travel agents have responded with an emphatic request…
Portier hires travel tech grandee Olivier Dombey to become a “very serious player”
Portier Technologies, has announced the appointment of Olivier Dombey as its new chief operating officer based out of the company’s Bangkok office.
Gone in 60 seconds: myCWT rolls out “simple, fast and easy” flight bookings
Travel management firm Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has increased the scope of its myCWT app by introducing the mobile air booking tech, with an average booking time of one minute to key…
Bosch pairs with Amadeus, Chrome River for seamless business travel experience
Engineering and electronics company Bosch aims to digitise its primitive business travel tools for the benefit of its more than 400,000 employees worldwide.
VLeisure’s one-stop B2B travel platform: Answer to Vietnam’s fragmented market
VLeisure CEO Phan Le saw that the booking process was a pain and inefficient and in dire need of a solution via technology.
QQ Speed: VisitBritain takes the fast lane with Tencent’s racing game
National tourism agency VisitBritain has collaborated with China-based internet tech and cultural enterprise Tencent on a new 3D racing game QQ Speed.
+en Travel Envoys seeks travel agents
+en Travel Envoys is a new initiative backed by the Singapore Tourism Board that provides individuals with the digital platforms, training, expertise, network and resources to start a travel…
Gartner’s top 10 strategic tech trends for 2019
Gartner, Inc. has revealed some of the strategic technology trends that will have far-reaching effects in various industries and companies need to explore.
Pausing but not giving up: Spacebase CEO on recalibrating your business
Unproductive and uncreative are how Spacebase co-founder and CEO Julian Jost described the conventional board meeting culture. Working as a strategy consultant for years, Julian has…
Financial check: A quarterly analysis of the major GDS players
This month, three of the major GDS providers in the industry -- Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport, denoting an upward trend recording considerable profits.
LINE to be a ‘super app’ for new travel funnel
LINE is on its way from being a mere messaging app to becoming a super app that will offer services for the new experiential travel funnel.
BedLinker: A marketplace for midsize players in the travel business
A travel tech startup from the economic hub of Vietnam, BedLinker, aims to empower travel buyers and sellers to create their own seamless, configurable purchasing and distribution experience…
NDC in a hybrid world: What you need to know
According to IATA, 20% of the leaderboard airlines’ third-party volume is forecast to be sold through NDC API. That means 80% of those airlines’ sales volume will be retailed in the…
TripAdvisor vies to be your new Facebook for travel
TripAdvisor has launched its new website to inspire users to book their next travel. On its brand new social platform, users can discover useful content – travel tips and recommendation from…
Direct Booking Summit: “China is the Wild West of hotel distribution”
Ahead of the Direct Booking Summit in Singapore next February, Triptease has spoken with Chetan Patel, VP for strategic marketing & e-commerce at ONYX Hospitality Group.
SBC Travel acquires Dream Holidays Planner ahead its launch
Continuing to strengthen its position in the travel industry, Singapore-based travel agency and subsidiary of Swissbloc Capital, SBC Travel, has announced that it will purchase…
Love it or hate it: UK consumer survey reveals social media quirks
New research has revealed that UK consumers are more discerning and less ready to be ‘influenced’ when booking a holiday than travel brands may have previously thought.
DataArt: Top 5 travel and hospitality tech trends for 2019
DataArt, a global technology consultancy, has predicted the top 5 travel and hospitality tech trends for 2019.
The shopping phenomenon you’ve never heard of just racked up USD 30b in a day
Alibaba did it again! The Chinese e-commerce giant beat its own record at Singles’ Day 11:11 event with USD 30.7 billion total sales during the 24-hour event beating last year’s USD 25.3…
LINE Travel partners with Agoda, Lions Travel, KKday and Tripresso
LINE Travel to be launched in Taiwan from 28 November.
Travel giants Agoda and JTB Corp join forces
Singapore based online travel agent (OTA) Agoda, has announced today a brand new deal with Japan’s biggest travel agent JTB Corp.
TravelgateX acquires the start-up REVVA
TravelgateX, a global marketplace for the travel trade, has acquired start-up REVVA in order to strengthen its position in the business intelligence sector.
From selling shampoo to CEO: European Vacation Rentals Henrik Kjellberg reveals secrets when moving jobs
Henrik Kjellberg brought along the expertise he gained from 20 years of working in the travel industry as he assumed the role as chief executive officer of European Vacation Rentals in…
Alternative Airlines: “Spread the cost of a flight over monthly instalments”
Alternative Airlines' announces new partnership with US payment specialists Affirm.
Where pawns become queens: 5 underrated Asian markets
Asia and the Pacific is a massive market and a fertile ground for travel start-ups.
Travel agency software: Choosing tools for booking, accounting, marketing, and tour building
This article was originally published as a blog post by AltexSoft. It is published here with permission.
Despite the recent charge toward using OTAs, a recent study showed that offline…
“We have Satoshi to thank”, says founder of KeyoCoin
So what can the travel industry realistically hope to gain from blockchain technology in the decade to come? Matt Baer, founder and CEO of KeyoCoin, the universal travel rewards platform…
Smart Tunnel: Emirates unveils integrated “biometric path”
Emirates has announced the launch of the world’s first “biometric path” which offers its customers a smooth and seamless airport journey.
SAS signs with Datalex for “the right customer at the right time, via the right channel”
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) sign a long term agreement with Irish tech firm Datalex, in order to help the carrier put its digital transformation strategy into action with NDC.
airFair: UK’s first flight delay compensation app updates tech
airFair has released an enhanced version of its app to streamline the flight delay claims process for passengers on the go.
Alitalia jumps on the branded fares bandwagon
Sabre Corporation has announced that Italian airline Alitalia has jumped on the tech firm’s bandwagon by signing up for the Sabre Branded Fares solution, which will be available on domestic…
Eurostar’s new robot provides travel info, takes selfies on request
High-speed train service provider, Eurostar, has introduced an interactive humanoid that offers a new way of providing travel information.
Saudi Arabia goes loopy for transport of the future
Hyperloop Transportation Technologies announces partners and construction start for commercial system in Abu Dhabi.
Finnair chooses Amadeus Network Revenue Management to drive profitability
Finnair has chosen Amadeus Network Revenue Management that uses data science to improve demand forecasts and optimise the airline’s Origin and Destination network.
IHG enhances online search for MICE spaces worldwide
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has collaborated with Social Tables to launch the company’s new groups and meetings digital experience.
Hospitality management university EHL invests in Boost mobile learning
Boost, a mobile learning solutions provider for the hospitality industry, has announced a partnership with École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL).
Swych launches Travelex Pay for WeChat
Leading cross-border financial services firm Travelex has partnered with Swych, the global digital gifting platform, and launched Travelex Pay within the WeChat app.
Heathrow to fully deploy facial recognition for departures by 2019
UK's Heathrow to launch airport’s first end-to-end bio-metrics trial bringing facial recognition to each point of the departing passenger’s journey.
DayBreakHotels CEO Simon Botto on making luxury hotels “more accessible”
DayBreakHotels makes it possible for guests to enjoy lavish rooms, spas, swimming pools, and other amenities for a ‘day break’ instead of booking an overnight stay.
10 most Instagram worthy travel experiences: How many have you done?
Instagram makes it easier for us to relive some of our favourite travel experiences. Food, friends, sun, and sand – all our adventures captured in a photo and saved in a digitally shared…
Revinate connects with hotels globally via SiteMinder Exchange
Revinate has announced a partnership with the global hotel cloud platform, SiteMinder, to connect with SiteMinder Exchange.
Ready jet go: Jet Airways renews GDS with Sabre
Jet Airways has been busy this week getting its domestic content distribution in order. Earlier this week, the Indian carrier announced it had renewed its GDS agreement with British travel…
Desperate times, desperate measures: Shift in Indian airlines’ GDS providers
Travelport recently bagged contracts of India's state-owned Air India and one of India's premier airlines, Jet Airways as their exclusive ticket-distribution service provider and content…
New kids on the blockchain: TD gets the lowdown on Keyocoin with CEO, Matt Baer
For this week's podcast I spoke to the CEO and founder of Keyocoin Matt Baer, about making a real-world application for blockchain, solving the difficulties of the fragmented nature of the…
Hyatt to roll out mobile room entry and security to all hotels by 2020
ASSA ABLOY Hospitality, self-described provider of “advanced security solutions” for the hospitality sector has revealed it has completed the implementation of its ‘Mobile Entry’ tool at the…
Travelport renews ties with Jet Airways
Jet Airways has signed a long-term supplier agreement with Travelport that will be effective from April 2019 and enable online and offline travel agencies around the world to shop, book and…
Keeping up with the times: Etihad cargo goes fully digital
Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, fully migrated to “SPRINT”, an IBS iCargo fully integrated technology platform offering the digital answer to its evolving cargo…
Ctrip: Online giant opens its first hotel with Rezen Hotels Group
Travel tech company, Ctrip recently unveiled its hotel management brand Rezen Hotels Group at the World Cultural and Tourism Forum. The group aims to bring together top-rated hotels in…
Gram-busters: Tourism trends for 2019
With travel trends constantly in flux recent habits have seen tourists swapping their sun loungers and beach beds for city breaks as well as the now ubiquitous adrenaline fuelled experience.…
How tech can solve your hospitality HR problems
By Adrian Tan, co-founder of The Resource Group.
Broader Horizons: OYO plans to host guests in 150 Hotels across UAE
After setting foot in China and the UK, OYO Hotels, South Asia’s largest and one of the fastest growing hospitality chains, has launched its operations in the United Arab Emirates.
Forget jetpacks — take to the skies in your own personal air taxi
Air New Zealand and Zephyr Airworks have signed an agreement to bring the world's first autonomous electric air taxi service to New Zealand.
How Virgin Holidays leveraged online management for higher visibility
Virgin Holidays have significantly increased its online visibility, with a 117% increase in Google views, 73% increase in clicks, and 74% increase in calls. We find out how.
Travellers need mobile phones to relax on holiday – 50% of over 55s use Facebook while abroad
Riviera Travel has revealed that Brit adults feel the need to check their phones three to four times a day during their holiday.
Travelport wins tender to become Air India’s sole distributor in home market
Travelport has won a tender process undertaken by Air India for the sole distribution of its domestic flight content in the airline's home market.
Deep Neural Network: Key to achieve hyper-responsive customer service
Artificial intelligence advances in greater strides making it more reliable and an attractive business solution. Over the past decade, the travel industry is keen on taking advantage of AI…
Amadeus ramps up Airport IT in APAC with two senior appointments
Amadeus has announced the promotion of Sarah Samuel to Head of Airport IT, Asia Pacific and the appointment of Sunil Ankalgi to Head of Sales and Account Management for Airport IT, Asia…
City Vibes: OYO to redesign facades of 1000+ hotels in India
OYO, South Asia’s largest and one of the world’s fastest growing hotel chains, has announced that it’s refreshing its hotels through the new City Vibes campaign.
Rightsify: Weaponise music for F&B success
Global music licensing agency Rightsify has announced the release of its latest study this week, a report which looks at the intriguing links between our oral and aural perceptions, dubbed…
TripAdvisor highlights its Experiences business in new TV ads
TripAdvisor has launched a new TV ad campaign across the US, starring the platform’s spokes-owl Little Wiser.
Sparefare: “Designed for travel without the ticket touts”
Have you ever lost money because you could not travel and had a non-refundable flight or a hotel reservation? Millions of people lose money on their unused travel bookings every year because…
HOTECH 2020: “The guest of the future won’t search for a room or a hotel”
As travel increasingly becomes a popular lifestyle choice among the growing middle and upper classes in Asia, gross travel bookings are projected to register strong growth from 2017 to 2020.…
Tiqets and QYER launch WeChat mini-program for museums and attractions
Ticketing platform Tiqets has announced its exclusive partnership with QYER, making it possible to book tickets within the mini-programs using WeChat Pay.
Lebanon’s Kurban Travel inks agreement with Sabre
Leading travel agency in Lebanon Kurban Travel signs agreement with Sabre Corporation to create an intuitive and personalised experience for its travellers.
Binance, TravelbyBit to push POS payment system using crypto in major airports
Global cryptocurrency exchange Binance invested USD 2.5 million in Australian blockchain payments provider TravelbyBit to introduce a point-of-sale (POS) payment system, incorporating…
Southwest signs ten year commitment to Amadeus Sky Suite by Optym
American domestic airline Southwest Airlines has announced it has entered into a long term agreement to bring the Amadeus Sky Suite by Optym to its operations, in order to upgrade its…
Time for a Bath: Hospitality startup hits Somerset
Tourists are drawn to the striking grandeur of the town’s architecture, the iconic public baths, built by the aforementioned Romans, as well as its fascinating history and the beauty of the…
Sabre’s new DACP: “Less stressful, more seamless and more personalised”
Travel tech firm Sabre Corporation launched its new Digital Airline Commercial Platform (DACP), supported by launch partners Aeroflot, Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways, at the T2RL PSS…
eDreams ODIGEO AR app lets you check luggage size
Europe’s largest online travel company eDreams ODIGEO has launched a new augmented reality function across its mobile apps which allows travellers to quickly scan their hand luggage to…
TrustYou and Frontdesk Anywhere enable direct messaging for hotels
TrustYou has announced a collaboration with Frontdesk Anywhere, allowing responses to guests’ needs in real time and increasing efficiency for hotel staff.
Rovia’s new partnership to ‘exponentially increase’ DreamTrips membership value
Travel industry and service provider Rovia has announced it will be working with SOR Technology, LLC to build a new loyalty solution which the companies describe as a “robust rewards…
Alternative Airlines signs with travel audience to connect with tourism boards and DMOs
Flight search website Alternative Airlines has signed with travel advertising platform travel audience to introduce the Destination Advertising Ecosystem.
Ctrip x Splyt = Global mobility for Chinese travellers
Going around during your trip has never been this easier for Chinese travellers as they can now book a ride anywhere through their Ctrip app after the China’s largest travel agency partnered…
NordVPN’s tips for online security while travelling
While Wi-Fi has become an indispensable part of our lives these days, it is necessary to ensure your online security standards are met while travelling. NordVPN sheds light on cyber security…
Transforming tourism with Portier: How does that work then?
Back at the beginning of September I reported news that Vietnamese telecom giant Vinaphone had entered the world of hospitality through a partnership with hotel tech firm Portier…
KeyoCoin lets you book travel tours and activities with cryptocurrency
Travel tech company KeyoCoin has launched the beta version of its online marketplace that enables users to book tours, activities and other travel experiences using cryptocurrency.
Money matters: OYO raises USD 1 billion aimed at global expansion
OYO has raised a total of USD 800 million in the latest financing round led by SoftBank Investment Advisers (SBIA) through SoftBank Vision Fund, with participation from existing investors…
Amadeus and Malaysia Airlines launch Facebook chat bot for bookings
Malaysia Airlines, together with Amadeus, has launched MHchat, a new feature which helps travellers’ book flights and pay through the popular social media app, Facebook Messenger.
Radius Travel taps dcs plus to provide intelligent travel solutions
Global travel management company, Radius Travel, and travel tech provider, dcs plus, have partnered to better serve and support travel agencies on its network.
Namaste London: India’s OYO Hotels set to enter the UK
OYO Hotels, South Asia’s largest hospitality chain, announced its foray into the United Kingdom, its first market beyond Asia.
Hong Kong Airlines adds Macao to network with new TurboJET codeshare
Hong Kong Airlines has announced the addition of Macao to its growing network, through a codeshare agreement with high-speed ferry services company, TurboJET.
Performance-enhancing AI and data science in hospitality
One hotel provides facial recognition check-in and a chatbot that answers your questions in a couple of seconds, while the latter has only comfortable rooms to offer. What hotel would you…
Amadeus gets into the minds of APAC business travellers
Travel tech firm, Amadeus IT Group, has revealed that business travel within Asia is growing at twice the pace of the rest of the world.
Going Dutch: KLM and Tata celebrate 25 years of innovation
Dutch airline KLM and tech partner Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) marked the quarter century of doing business together this week.
Carnival Corporation unveils OceanView Mobile – first ever travel content app
Leisure travel company Carnival Corporation has launched OceanView Mobile – an industry first travel content app from a travel provider that enables users to watch the most popular U.S.…
Guestline appoints Robert Gorby as chief marketing officer
Hospitality software business Guestline has announced the appointment of Robert Gorby as chief marketing officer, effective immediately. Robert is the latest addition to the company's senior…
Beyond Bangkok: Expedia and TAT join forces to promote Thai second cities
Expedia and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced their new partnership to promote Thailand, and in particular regional cities outside of Bangkok, such as Chiang Rai, Koh Lipe,…
Tours and activities M&A continues as TUI Group acquires tech start-up Musement
To strengthen its position in the excursions, tours and activities business, TUI Group has acquired the Italian tech start-up, Musement.
CheapOair’s new “60-day view of when prices are cheapest”
Hybrid travel agency CheapOair.com, has announced the publication launch of Super Flex Deals, the company’s new tool for which uses a “low-fare calendar and bar chart” empowering users with…
Agoda hooks up with the “largest LGBT travel business in the world”
Online powerhouse Agoda, has unveiled news of its new partnership with the LGBT international lifestyle and travel platform TravelGay.
CEO John Hardy: Turning ambitions into reality
A week ago, we featured Radical Innovation, an award-giving platform that recognises the best hotel concepts that could very well change the course of hospitality. In this article, we…
50 hotels in Hainan allow guests to pay with their face
Network solutions provider for hotels, Shiji, paired with Alibaba’s Fliggy to integrate facial recognition in 50 hotels in China's Hainan district that speeds up the process of check-in and…
Ctrip drives safety and responsible travel for outbound Chinese tourists
Following a new report dubbed the First Half of 2018 Travel Report- Europe, compiled in partnership with Ctrip, the China Tourism Academy (CTA) and Huayuan International Travel (HuaYuan),…
Expectations vs Reality: Bridging the gap to meet demands of consumers
Global technology consulting firm, Mindtree, has released new findings detailing how digital tech has created unprecedented opportunities that travel businesses must take advantage of.
Beep! Beep! Avis Budget Group launches one-stop-portal
Avis Budget Group has launched its training platform, Beep – a one-stop-portal for travel trade professionals in Asia.
PassRight: The “Airbnb” of the complex US immigration process
Liran Rosenfeld experienced the Kafkaesque immigration process in the United States. His first-hand experiences with the immigration system have inspired Rosenfeld to create a platform that…
Alipay’s cash-free spending spree in SG
Mobile payment platform Alipay has announced it’s special “cashless” trip to Singapore, where Chinese tourists to Singapore travelled to the Little Red Dot and endeavoured to cover all their…
Mon-go-go-go-lia: The rise of Mongolian tourism
With a 28% rise in foreign visitors in 2017, Hunnu Air has signed up with Sabre Corporation to gain access to 425,000 travel agents across the world.
Bellevue Hotels and Resorts promotes RateTiger to manage online sales
The Philippine-based hotel chain, Bellevue Hotels and Resorts, has recommended RateTiger for centralising online distribution.
NDC: “Accreditation is the starting point, not the destination” Sabre’s Kathy Morgan
A couple of weeks ago at STX Singapore, I had the opportunity to see Kathy Morgan, Sabre’s vice president of product management, address delegates about the potential of New Distribution…
Collinson sparks loyalty through airport digital-commerce platform
Loyalty and benefits company Collinson has invested in Grab, an airport e-commerce platform that simplifies mobile ordering of airport necessities.
The workforce of the future: When AI meets HR
TD spoke to Jitender Panihar on this week's podcast about how AI will affect the role of HR professionals and indeed the global workforce.
Expedia Group to boost travel in Scotland
Expedia Group, one of the world’s largest online travel companies, has joined forces with VisitScotland to help drive travel demand in the country.
Hotelbeds Group refreshes Bedsonline with pumped up portfolio
After buying rivals GTA and Tourico Holidays, accommodation supplier Hotelbeds Group consolidated all brands in a single platform – Bedsonline.
THAI and Rolls-Royce’s new one-of-a-kind deal
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) and Rolls-Royce held an opening ceremony to unveil the launch of their collaboration on the Trent XWB Engine Research and Development…
Podcast: NDC’s status and potential – with VP of NDC-X, Amadeus
I spoke to Gianni Pisanello about the game-changing new platform's current status and future potential.
Helsinki enhances future services to connect with Chinese visitors
Helsinki Marketing, Tencent and Finnair have signed a cooperation agreement to launch a travel solutions project in the WeChat mini program ecosystem, with an aim to enhance digital services…
Etihad Airways personalises experience with cloud technology
Etihad Airways has partnered with Farelogix Inc. to enhance its merchandising and distribution capabilities.
Think Rad: Radical Innovation unveils hotel concepts of the future
Radical Innovation, an award-giving platform that recognises game-changing ideas for the hospitality industry worldwide, has announced the 2018 finalists for its 12th annual edition.
Why OTAs should be scared of Google
Google continues to augment its travel products and poses a serious threat to online travel agencies (OTAs). It seems that the tech giant has a penchant for the travel industry and has…
Portier and Vinaphone team up to “empower next-generation tourism” in Vietnam
Vinaphone, one of Vietnam’s biggest mobile networks, has unveiled its intentions of enhancing communications within the nation’s hospitality industry with the announcement of its new…
Wizard of OYO: New loyalty programme to woo customers
OYO, South Asia’s largest hotel chain, announced the launch of OYO Wizard, a new membership program designed to recognize and reward frequent customers.
Sky Angkor Airlines partners with Sabre to support growth across SEA
Sabre Corporation has announced a content distribution agreement with Sky Angkor Airlines, to become its preferred global distribution system (GDS) partner to reach travel agents globally.
Hotelbeds and SIA announce holiday packaging partnership
Hotelbeds Group and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have come together to form a holiday packaging partnership, offering bundled flights and hotel accommodation solutions to SIA’s customers.
Lufthansa Group launches NDC Partner Program in the UAE
Lufthansa Group has launched a new NDC (New Distribution Capability) Partner Program in the UAE which offers immediate information and access to Lufthansa Group Airlines’ NDC API solutions.
The Hotels Network CEO: Predictive personalisation and how it’s revolutionising hospitality
The concept of leveraging technology to improve the user experience and increase hotel revenue simultaneously is what we call predictive personalisation. All hoteliers should be getting…
The Gay Passport CEO: Reaching out to new market segments
We speak to Calum Evans, CEO and founder of Gay Passport, a gay influencer agency that allows hotels to gain exposure in gay audiences by providing quality vetted visit proposals from…
JetClass to the rescue: Launches Bern service for SkyWork passengers
Due to hundreds of flight cancellations in Bern, Switzerland, the Austrian business aviation startup, JetClass, has launched an on-demand service through a smart-matching online platform.
CWT: Amadeus deal to “accelerate continued global growth”
With New Distribution Capability (NDC) the talk of the industry, indeed the topic was at the heart of the STX conference in Singapore this week, airlines and hoteliers are excited about the…
Why hotels in China should strengthen their online bookings
Hotels in China should pay more attention to their online hotel bookings as China’s online hotel reservation industry maintains speedy growth with monthly active users (MAU) reaching 91.09…
Tech and personalisation will be key for APAC airline growth: Sabre
Sabre Corporation has surveyed 30 APAC airlines, and the results show that carriers are revaluating their strategic focus as they think about new ways to generate revenue and increase yield.…
Hong Kong Airlines adopts Sabre Branded Fares
Tech provider to the global travel industry, Sabre Corporation, has implemented Sabre Branded Fares for Hong Kong Airlines, giving travel agencies the ability to create tailored offers with…
China Eastern unveils new flight management tech at STX Singapore 2018
Kicking off proceedings with a bang, Sabre Corporation began the first day of its STX conference at the Sands Marina Hotel in Singapore with a joint press conference with China Eastern…
YouGov poll: 68% of Brits want more tech at airports
An online YouGov poll commissioned by in-flight entertainment and passenger engagement company, Spafax, has revealed that younger travellers want airports to use technology to enhance their…
Are Wi-Fi hotspots safe or traps for business travellers?
It doesn’t seem long ago that business travellers used free or paid-for Wi-Fi hotspots without much of a thought about the security issues they posed.
“Group functionality is a game-changer” says Criton’s CEO
Criton, a UK based tech startup, has launched a new “group app” tool designed specifically with the hospitality industry in mind.
Three’s a charm: Vietjet launches third Japanese connection
Vietjet has announced the launch of its new Hanoi - Tokyo (Narita, Japan) service with a special promotion on flights to a choice selection of some the airlines more popular destinations…
easyJet adopts solution for more reliable flight schedules
Amadeus and Optym have announced that easyJet has chosen the advanced network simulation solution, Amadeus SkySYM by Optym, to improve the reliability of its flight schedules.
