News

google-maps-translation
News / Technology
Google Maps adds local language help for travelers, plots guides feature
By Linda Fox | November 19, 2019
Google Maps has launched a translation service through Google Translate that helps users navigate destinations through local languages.... Read More
cover-genius-funding
News / Startups
Cover Genius adds $10M in Series B for growth in the U.K., U.S. and Asia
By Linda Fox | November 19, 2019
Cover Genius, an insurance technology specialist, is plotting growth after landing $10 million in Series B funding.... Read More
billie-jean-king-expedia-group-explorea
News / Online
"We need to fight for equality" - Billie Jean King, Mark Okerstrom and more on diversity and inclusion
By Jill Menze | November 19, 2019
At Expedia Group's Explore event, diversity, inclusion and leadership were discussed at length by executives and speakers such as tennis legend and equality advocate Billie Jean King.... Read More
Welcome to the Hot 25 Startups for 2020
News / Startups
Welcome to the Hot 25 Startups for 2020
By PhocusWire / Voyager HQ | November 18, 2019
We're excited to highlight the next wave of companies that have shown potential to break through in 2020, based on their ability to innovate, grow customers and expand geographically, as well as the quality of leadership teams.... Read More
airbnb-trust-experiences
News / Online
Airbnb adds checks and balances to Experiences in bid to boost trust
By Linda Fox | November 18, 2019
Further to recently announced initiatives to verify hosts and homes, Airbnb is also planning "trust" upgrades to its Experiences product.... Read More
jayride-airport-transfer-funding
News / Online
Airport transportation marketplace Jayride raises $3.5M to build out product and tech
By Mitra Sorrells | November 18, 2019
Airport transfer marketplace Jayride has raised $3.5 million to develop its product and technology.... Read More
Sounding Off: Rebrands are brave but sometimes don't go far enough
Interview / Online
Sounding Off: Rebrands are brave but sometimes don't go far enough
By PhocusWire | November 15, 2019
Perhaps the biggest opportunity to simply run every type of accommodation under the Expedia brand, with the power that its platform has in the marketplace, was dismissed too quickly.... Read More
Refundit pockets $9.8M for its digital VAT refund service
News / Startups
Refundit pockets $9.8M for its digital VAT refund service
By Linda Fox | November 15, 2019
Amadeus Ventures led the round, with participation also coming from Portugal Ventures and a number of seed investors.... Read More
hopper-acquires-gdx-travel
News / Technology
Hopper acquires GDX Travel, advancing NDC capacity and geographic growth
By Mitra Sorrells | November 14, 2019
The deal gives Hopper direct access to more than 25 regional and low-cost carriers in Latin America via IATA’s NDC.... Read More
skyscanner-booking-2
News / Online
Skyscanner pivots from original model, becomes marketplace with bookings
By Kevin May | November 14, 2019
The U.K.-based company is at pains to point out that it is not "becoming an online travel agency" - instead it is offering a three-pronged approach to connecting users with air tickets.... Read More
expedia-explore-2019
News / Distribution
Removing friction from travel is Expedia's "Everest" goal
By Jill Menze | November 14, 2019
Expedia Group is seeking to connect customers partners more intelligently as part of a bid to make it locally relevant.... Read More
Trip.com Group Q3 2019 Earnings
News / Online
Trip.com Group operations income up 52% as company begins new chapter
By Steven Lerner | November 14, 2019
Net revenue grew 12% year-over-year to $1.47 billion for newly named online travel agency group.... Read More
hotelbeds-HQ-spain
News / Distribution
HotelBeds to axe 5% of workforce as part of "optimization" strategy
By Linda Fox | November 13, 2019
The Spain-based bedbank says it has now consolidated into one business following its acquisitions, in early 2017, of Tourico Holidays and GTA.... Read More
sita-digital-twin
News / Technology
Airports look to emerging technology (even blockchain) to drive much-needed efficiency
By Linda Fox | November 12, 2019
Airlines and airports are using emerging tech such as LIDAR and blockchain to improve efficiency and prepare for growth.... Read More
uplift-carnival-cruise-partnership
News / Online
Uplift adds Carnival Cruise Line to growing list of payment option partners
By Mitra Sorrells | November 12, 2019
Carnival Cruise Line is the newest travel brand to offer financing through Uplift.... Read More