The post Your next trip could book itself: Google’s new AI tools bring one-tap trips to 200+ countries appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As Google, OpenAI, Expedia, Booking.com and Perplexity compete to shape the future of agentic travel, the balance of power is shifting from traditional meta-search engines to AI-driven interfaces. The result is a world where inspiration, planning and booking blend into one seamless flow — faster, smarter and more personalised than anything travellers have experienced before.

Google is officially moving travel into the era of autonomous planning. The tech giant has launched its AI-powered “Flight Deals” tool globally and confirmed that it is developing full agentic flight and hotel booking directly inside Search — a shift that could redefine how billions of people plan trips. This expansion represents one of Google’s most ambitious travel pushes yet, uniting real-time pricing, itinerary creation and, soon, complete booking into a single AI-powered journey.

Global Push for Smarter, Cheaper Airfare Search

Flight Deals, which first debuted in August across the U.S., Canada and India, is now rolling out across more than 200 countries and territories, including major markets such as the U.K., France, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Brazil and Indonesia. It also supports more than 60 languages. The tool allows travellers to describe the kind of trip they want — a beach break under a certain budget, a quick European escape, or a warm-weather getaway in winter — and Google’s AI instantly surfaces the best bargains using its vast travel data ecosystem.

With this global expansion, Google effectively becomes one of the largest AI-powered flight comparison platforms overnight, positioning itself at the centre of a rapidly evolving travel search landscape.

When trip planning turns into conversation

Google is also expanding the capabilities of AI Mode with “Create with Canvas,” transforming what was originally an academic organiser into a dynamic travel-planning companion. Canvas builds trip plans using real-time flight and hotel data, Google Maps insights, neighbourhood photos, and suggestions for restaurants, activities and experiences. Users simply tell the AI the type of trip they are planning, select the Canvas option, and receive a personalised itinerary in the side panel that they can continue refining through conversation.

The feature is currently available on desktop in the U.S. for users enrolled in Google Labs, and marks a move toward a future where planning a trip feels more like texting a well-informed assistant than conducting research.

AI to completes flight and hotel bookings

Google has confirmed it is now developing full agentic booking capabilities that will eventually allow users to book flights and hotels directly through AI Mode. It is working closely with industry partners including Booking.com, Expedia, Marriott, IHG, Choice Hotels and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. According to Julie Farago, Google’s vice president of engineering for travel and local search, the company is taking its time because of the complex, high-value nature of travel bookings. “We’re not going to rush this out the door because we want to make sure it’s seamless and that people have all the control they need and expect,” she said.

Google emphasised that it will not become the merchant of record. Instead, partner companies will handle transactions and booking management, and travellers will retain full control over which partner they book through based on price, policies and loyalty considerations. Although the announcement sparked brief investor anxiety about potential disruption to online travel agencies, analysts later noted that concerns appeared overstated given Google’s collaborative, rather than competitive, model.

What this means for travel

The implications for travellers — and the industry — are profound. Travel planning is shifting from a fragmented, multi-tab process into an intelligent, conversational journey that places AI at the centre of decision-making. Instead of searching manually across dozens of sites, travellers will soon be able to express their intentions — a romantic weekend in Rome, a surfing holiday under a specific budget, a kid-friendly ski trip with good snow conditions — and receive a personalised itinerary that evolves and adjusts through context-aware conversation. Over time, AI Mode could learn user preferences such as favourite hotel brands, preferred aircraft types, neighbourhood styles, loyalty programmes and even dining preferences. This transforms AI from a search add-on into a long-term travel concierge.

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The post Emirates orders 65 additional Boeing 777X aircraft appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Emirates announced orders for 65 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft, powered by GE 9X engines, worth US$ 38 billion at list prices, on the opening day of Dubai Airshow 2025.

This takes the airline’s total orderbook with Boeing to 315 widebody aircraft, comprising 270 Boeing 777Xs, 10 Boeing 777 freighters, and 35 Boeing 787s; and its orderbook with GE Aerospace for GE9X engines to a total of 540 units including the 130 additional units signed today. This is a massive long-term commitment to US aerospace manufacturing, generating support for hundreds of thousands of high value manufacturing jobs in the US over the life of the programmes.

Emirates’ latest agreement with Boeing also provides strong backing for Boeing’s feasibility study to develop the 777-10, a larger variant of its 777X family, with the airline signing up for options to convert its latest 777-9 order into the 777-10 or the 777-8.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “Emirates is already the world’s largest Boeing 777 operator and we are expanding our commitment to the programme today with additional orders worth US$ 38 billion for 65 Boeing 777-9s, and 130 GE9X engines. This is a long-term commitment and testament to our partnership with Boeing and GE, and to US aerospace.

“Each of our aircraft on order has been carefully factored into Emirates’ expansion plan, which is aligned to Dubai’s growth plans. Flying a young and modern fleet with innovative cabin products has always been a cornerstone of Emirates’ strategy, and we look forward to continue working closely with Boeing to receive delivery of our first 777-9s from Q2 of 2027, and to equip our latest aircraft with state-of-the-art, industry-leading onboard products.”

Commenting on the 777-10 study, Sheikh Ahmed said: “Emirates has been open about the fact that we are keen for manufacturers to build larger capacity aircraft, which are more efficient to operate especially with projected air traffic growth and increasing constraints at airports. We fully support Boeing’s feasibility study to develop the 777-10 and have options to convert our latest 777-9 order to the 777-10 or the 777-8.”

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes said: “We are deeply honoured that Emirates has once again selected the Boeing 777X to power its future as the airline refreshes its world-class fleet and expands its vaunted global network. Boeing has been a proud supporter of Emirates over the past 40 years as the airline has grown into one of the world’s leading carriers and developed a reputation for excellence and innovation. We look forward to growing our partnership and for Emirates to fly Boeing airplanes for decades to come.”

Russell Stokes, President & CEO, Commercial Engines & Services for GE Aerospace said: “We are proud to deepen our decades-long partnership with Emirates as we advance the future of flight together. Already the world’s largest customer for GE90 and GP7200 engines, this additional GE9X order reflects Emirates’ confidence in our technology and our team. We are ready to support Emirates in every way to leverage the efficiency and durability of our industry-leading solutions and services.”

Over its 40-year history, Emirates has operated every model in the Boeing 777 family and today flies the largest 777 fleet in the world, powered by GE90 engines. Emirates’ 119 Boeing 777-300ERs, 10 Boeing 777-200LRs, and 11 Boeing 777 freighters connect Dubai to over 140 cities and facilitate trade, commerce and tourism traffic across six continents.

After today’s order, Emirates will be expecting Boeing aircraft deliveries up to 2038, a long-term commitment and partnership that will engage the skill and craftmanship of many thousands of workers who manufacture and assemble the 777X and GE9X engines at locations throughout the United States including in Alabama, Kansas, Kentucky, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont and Washington.

Emirates aircraft fleet and orderbook – 17 November 2025

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The post Jazeera Airways takes delivery of TiSeat 2X seats from Expliseat appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

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Jazeera Airways and Expliseat have announced the delivery of TiSeat 2X seats for Jazeera’s Airbus A320 family fleet at the Dubai Airshow 2025. This marks Expliseat’s entry into the Middle East market, and highlightsit’s commitment to supporting carriers through their growth phases with proven lightweight technology.

The TiSeat 2X delivery represents a significant milestone in the partnership between the two companies. The carrier is receiving both TiSeat 2X lite and TiSeat 2X prime configurations, providing versatility to tailor cabin layouts to specific route requirements while maximizing operational efficiency.

With the new seats, Jazeera Airways will benefit from approximately 1.2 metric tons of weight reduction per aircraft, translating to lower fuel burn and up to 126 kg less CO₂ emissions per flight hour.

Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer of Jazeera Airways, said: “As Jazeera scales toward a 50-aircraft fleet and a 100-destination network, investing in the TiSeat 2X positions us for smarter, more efficient growth. This upgrade gives us a decisive edge in opening new routes—particularly longer sectors and thinner, underserved markets—while strengthening the economics of our existing network. This level of efficiency directly supports our strategy for sustainable expansion and reinforces our confidence in the investments we are making for the next phase of growth. As we mark our 20th anniversary year, this partnership marks another step in our commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and an enhanced customer experience. These new seats will not only offer passengers a more comfortable journey but also enable us to extend our range and bring more destinations into the Jazeera network.”

Jazeera’s inaugural TiSeat 2X flight, scheduled for November 28, 2025, will mark the first Expliseat seat in commercial service on an A320 neo aircraft. This delivery positions Expliseat strategically in the Middle East regional aviation market, building on global momentum from recent deployments including Air France (first flight September 1, 2025) and Air Canada’s cabin upgrade announcement.

Driving Efficiency Through Next-Generation Seating Solutions

Built with a proprietary titanium and carbon fiber composite frame, the TiSeat 2X achieves up to 30% weight reduction compared to conventional economy seats. The innovative design, protected by more than 100 patents, delivers enhanced durability, lower lifecycle maintenance costs, and improved passenger comfort.

The reduced footprint of the seating technology creates opportunities for cabin optimization, enabling airlines to adjust capacity configurations while maintaining passenger experience standards.

Amaury Barberot, CEO of Expliseat, said: “Jazeera Airways continues to demonstrate a forward-looking approach in leveraging cabin technology to enhance its operational efficiency and competitive advantages. This delivery validates our approach to supporting carriers through their growth phases, whether that’s network expansion, fleet optimization, or operational cost management. We look forward to continuing this partnership with Jazeera as they pursue new opportunities.’’

Selected by over 20 airlines including operators such as Air France, Air Canada, and Porter, Expliseat has more than 10,000 TiSeats in operation worldwide. With over 60 million flight hours logged, Expliseat’s seating technology delivers reliability and performance that dynamic, growing airlines demand. As Jazeera Airways continues scaling its operations, with 26 additional aircraft on order for delivery from 2027, the carrier’s investment in proven, efficient cabin technology provides a foundation for sustainable growth.

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The post Red Sea International Airport partners with Enova appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Red Sea International Airport (RSI), operated by daa International, has signed a multi-year agreement with Enova, a joint venture between Majid Al Futtaim and Veolia and a regional leader in integrated energy and facilities management services, to become the airport’s General Facilities Maintenance contractor.

Under the agreement, Enova will take care of all key maintenance and support services across the airport. This includes conducting regular energy audits and indoor air quality assessments to enhance energy and water efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and ensure a comfortable, high-quality experience for all passengers and visitors.

The partnership will create around 250 new jobs in the region, supporting local employment and skills development.

Enova will introduce sustainable practices across the airport’s facilities, such as energy-saving solutions, eco-friendly waste management, and innovative maintenance approaches that help reduce the airport’s impact on the environment. Enova’s role will cover everything from technical maintenance and building systems to cleaning, landscaping, and waste management across both airside and landside areas of the airport.

With a strong focus on sustainability and efficiency, this collaboration supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for greener growth and development, while ensuring RSI continues to provide a welcoming, reliable, and world-class travel experience.

Andrew Tyler-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Red Sea International Airport, said: “Red Sea International Airport is more than just a transport hub: it’s designed to reflect the very best of hospitality and sustainability. Working with Enova allows us to combine daa International’s operational expertise with their facilities management know-how, making sure every part of the airport – from terminal upkeep to landscaping – delivers a smooth, and environmentally responsible experience for our guests.”

Renaud Capris, CEO of Enova, a joint venture between Majid Al Futtaim and Veolia, said: “Red Sea International Airport sets a new standard for sustainable aviation, and we’re proud to partner with daa International which oversees operations at Red Sea International Airport, for this landmark project. Enova brings decades of experience in integrated energy and facilities management across 11 airports in the GCC. In line with Veolia’s Green Up strategic program, our integrated approach combines energy efficiency with facilities management to reduce environmental impact. By combining smart systems, data-driven maintenance, and sustainable resource management, we will help RSI advance its carbon-neutral ambitions, strengthen operational performance, and support local talent development in line with Vision 2030.”

RSI continues to build partnerships that reinforce its role as a next-generation airport and a critical gateway to one of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious tourism destinations. Enova’s involvement marks another important step in shaping the airport into a world-class hub. This agreement reflects Enova’s – which manages 11 airports across the GCC – ongoing commitment to supporting the region’s most significant infrastructure projects and delivering value through operational excellence, sustainability, and innovation.

Red Sea International Airport, RSI, Enova, Majid Al Futtaim, Veolia

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The post Winter travel is the buzz in India: Atlys appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

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As temperatures dip and festive lights glow across India, travellers are packing their bags for what has become the most anticipated window of the year. According to Atlys, visa applications for the November 2025 to February 2026 period have risen sharply underscoring how winter has firmly established itself as the country’s favourite season for international travel.

The year-end stretch, with Christmas breaks, New Year celebrations, and extended school holidays, now defines the travel calendar, with families reuniting across borders, couples planning romantic escapes and milestone celebrations, and friendship groups squeezing in one last adventure before the year wraps.

“Winter has firmly established itself as India’s favourite travel season, and the reasons are clear that it’s a time for celebration, connection, and exploration,” said Santosh Hegde, Head of Marketing at Atlys. “Our role is to ensure that the visa process is as smooth and stress-free as possible, so travellers can focus entirely on their adventures.”

Beneath the festive momentum, the Atlys data reveals who’s driving the surge. Millennials account for the largest share at 54% propelled by higher disposable incomes and a preference for experience-rich itineraries, with a notable gravitation toward Schengen travel accounting for 50% of all millennial travellers.

Gen Z is the fastest-growing cohort with applications with 25% share. Gender dynamics continue to shift as women comprise 34% of total applicants, with interesting destination preferences emerging: women are driving travel to Sri Lanka, while men show a stronger inclination toward Schengen destinations. City-wise, Tier 1 demand is anchored by Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru as the top three sources of outbound applications, while Tier 2 momentum is accelerating, led by Lucknow, Ludhiana, and Surat.

Destination choices map neatly to two winter mindsets. Snow-seekers are heading to Switzerland, France, and UK for Christmas markets, ski holidays, and northern lights chases. At the same time, many are choosing to skip the snow in favour of sunshine. Interest for warm-weather breaks is up with Bali, Dubai, and Sri Lanka drawing travellers who want beaches, outdoor adventures, and open-air celebrations to close the year. Short-haul favourites like Vietnam, Thailand, and the UAE are thriving as quick, celebratory getaways that don’t compromise on vibe. Travellers are also crafting itineraries that blend comfort with culture, pairing winter festivities with local food, design, and discovery. The trend shows a clear tilt toward experiences that feel both easy and enriching.

Flexibility is further expanding horizons. Multi-country journeys are rising as travellers use Schengen and to stitch together cross-border winters, often adding the UK as a capstone to a broader Euro tour. India’s wedding season is amplifying demand as well: with approximately 46 lakh weddings expected across November and December, visa applications linked to honeymoons and post-wedding travel are surging, with couples gravitating to European destinations as their favourite choice for their first trips together.

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The post “Kuwait Unites Us” from 13 to 22 Nov at Al Shaheed Park appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Ministry of Information and Culture, in cooperation with Kuwait Airways, organized the “Kuwait Unites Us” event, held in conjunction with the selection of Kuwait as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025, taking place at Al Shaheed Park from 13 to 22 November 2025.

The event will witness wide participation from the embassies of Gulf and Arab countries, which will showcase their historical and cultural artifacts in dedicated pavilions, highlighting the deep-rooted ties that unite Arab people. In addition, folkloric performances will be presented daily at the Al Shaheed Park stage from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., celebrating the diversity of Arab art and the richness of the region’s shared cultural heritage.

Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Abdulmohsen Salem Al-Fagaan, stated that Kuwait Airways’ participation in organizing the “Kuwait Unites Us” event, in cooperation with the Ministry of Information and Culture, reflects its established role as the national carrier of the State of Kuwait. He emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting the State’s plans for comprehensive development, in line with the Kuwait 2035 Vision, aimed at strengthening Kuwait’s position at the regional and international levels.

Al-Fagaan explained that this participation also reflects Kuwait Airways’ national role and responsibility in supporting major events that showcase the spirit of Kuwait and its cultural heritage. He noted that the national carrier has leveraged its expertise and logistical capabilities to ensure the success of the event, while also providing the necessary facilities for the participating delegations, aiming to deliver an event worthy of Kuwait’s status as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025.

Al-Fagaan explained that the ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Information and Culture and Kuwait Airways reflects a shared vision to highlight Kuwait’s authentic identity at every event and highlight the country’s rich heritage to visitors and the public. He noted that the event represents a valuable opportunity to present a distinguished image of the State of Kuwait.

Al-Fagaan added that Kuwait Airways is an integral part of the country’s important sectors and is always keen to participate in national and cultural events. He emphasized that such events provide an opportunity to highlight the State of Kuwait’s distinguished cultural identity, as well as its prominent tourist attractions, reflecting the nation’s rich history and humanitarian role.

Al-Fagaan expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Excellency the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, for his tireless efforts and continuous support in promoting Kuwait as a leading tourist destination in the region. He emphasized that this constructive cooperation between state institutions plays a vital role in achieving shared goals and advancing the country’s cultural and tourism development.

Al-Fagaan concluded that Kuwait Airways consistently seeks to strengthen its presence in various national and regional events, viewing this as a key aspect of its social responsibility and its role in supporting cultural and media development in the country. He emphasized that the company continues to implement development plans to enhance service quality and elevate the travel experience, in line with Kuwait Airways’ position as one of the region’s long-established carriers.

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The post Avolon orders 100 leap-1A engines from CFM International appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Avolon announces an order at the Dubai Airshow for 100 new LEAP-1A engines from CFM International to power 50 Airbus A320neo family aircraft in its order book. The advanced technologies in LEAP-1A engines, like composite fan blades and ceramic matrix composites, deliver an engine that is 15% more fuel efficient, with 15% lower carbon emissions than prior-generation CFM56 engines.

Avolon has been a CFM customer since 2010 and currently manages a fleet of 99 A320neo family aircraft powered by LEAP-1A engines, with firm orders for an additional 163 LEAP-1A powered aircraft. Avolon had 149 A320neo family aircraft and an orderbook of 347 A320neo family aircraft at 30 September 2025.

Andy Cronin, CEO Avolon, commented: “Our sustained partnership with CFM International underpins Avolon’s strategy to reduce emissions and support the demand we see from our airline customers’ growth and replacement needs through 2030 and beyond.”

Gaël Méheust, President and CEO, CFM International, commented: “We are honored by Avolon’s continued confidence in our LEAP engine technology. This order reflects the strength of our long-standing partnership and our commitment to delivering world-class products that meet the needs of our airline customers for efficiency, reliability and sustainability in their operations.”

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The post TIPTO hosts its first apprentice event appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

TIPTO, a membership group supporting UK travel agents, held its first in-person training event for those new to the industry in October. Working exclusively with Hays Travel and its Apprenticeship Team, TIPTO welcomed 75 apprentice agents to Sunderland’s Stadium of Light for a unique roadshow event.

Apprentices learned from 12 of TIPTO’s supplier members – covering market intelligence, industry insight, and tips on converting sales – and chatted with suppliers and the TIPTO team during informal networking sessions. To close the event apprentices joined a Q&A session with attending suppliers to ‘pick their brains’ and gain invaluable insight.

Vishal Patel, TIPTO Chairman comments: “We were delighted to be able to introduce agents new to the industry to our unique roadshow event set up, allowing them to dip their toes into TIPTO’s popular style of learning. Our events are designed to offer a great grounding for apprentices looking to secure the basics for starting out on a long term, successful career as a travel agent. We’d like to thank the Hays Travel Apprenticeship team for their support and for coordinating such a great number of attendees! We hope to extend to further nationwide locations.”

In a packed day, apprentices also enjoyed a stadium tour, complete with a walk through the tunnel and pitch-side photo, and had the chance to win five of TIPTO’s legendary gift filled Goodie Bags, two £100 shopping vouchers and a £50 Titan reward in the prize giveaways. Apprentices all received a customary blue TIPTO tote bag on arrival and gave generously to support TIPTO’s regular charity prize raffle.

Rachael Allen, Hays Travel’s Head of Apprenticeships says: “We extend a huge thank you to TIPTO for hosting our apprentice agents in such an informative and fun way. The day was a huge success – from the ‘speed-dating’ supplier sessions, networking and Q&A, we know that our younger colleagues will truly benefit from the information shared and everything they learned. We are proud to have been welcoming apprentices into our business for many years and it’s always beneficial to find new ways to help build their knowledge and confidence, as we help prepare them for a brilliant career in travel.”

Hays Travel has over 600 apprentices in their programme, based in branches across the UK and at its Sunderland head office. Two apprentices shared their experience of the TIPTO day:

Millie MacPhail, Hays Travel Stanley says: “The event was a great opportunity to meet many different suppliers and get more info on what they offer and how they work, as well as the incentives available to agents. It was interesting to talk to the suppliers I’m less familiar with and get tips on how to sell their brand in store and the features and benefits to give to customers when selling. Every supplier we met was lovely and helpful and has reached out since the event with their contact details and to offer their support. The whole day was very well organised, with great food and the chance to have a stadium tour at the end was an extra treat!”

Madison Robinson, Hays Travel Whitehaven adds: “I really enjoyed the day, and it helped me gain lots of new knowledge. I learned more about the different suppliers that we use, their commission rates and the types of holidays they sell. I shared what I learned with my team, particularly from Hurtigruten and Ambassador Cruise. It’s good to have lots of information about these suppliers to help our customers.”

TIPTO runs events for travel agents nationwide, supporting everyone from those newly joining the industry to those well-established agents. Supplier content is always fresh, relevant and up to date; and can be delivered face2face at events or via online learning. Agents are encouraged to register with TIPTO now at www.tipto.co.uk.

TIPTO is currently in its 27^th year of operation with 26 members including: Abercrombie & Kent / Cox & Kings, AmaWaterways, Ambassador Cruise Line, Royalton Hotels & Resorts, CroisiEurope, Do Something Different, DriveAway, Exoticca, Fred. Holidays, Gold Medal, Holiday Extras, Hurtigruten, Intrepid, JG Travel Group, Leger Shearings Group, Newmarket Holidays, Playa Hotels & Resorts, RateHawk, RCD Hotels, Red Sea Holidays, Scenic & Emerald Cruises, SPL Villas, Titan, Travelpack, USAirtours, and Virgin Voyages.

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The post Cloudbeds and HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions) Announce Industry-First Collaboration  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Cloudbeds, the intelligent unified platform powering hotel growth, and HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions), a global travel technology platform with unique fintech solutions,  announced a groundbreaking partnership that makes HTS’ innovative Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) feature, available to independent hoteliers for the first time. This industry-first collaboration provides Cloudbeds’ global network of customers with a powerful competitive edge, unlocking new revenue streams and delivering unprecedented flexibility to travelers.

The partnership enables independent hoteliers on the Cloudbeds platform to offer guests the option to cancel reservations for any reason. This level of control and flexibility, previously only available on airlines and online travel agencies (OTAs), restores decision-making power to hoteliers and travelers.

The integration unlocks several transformative benefits, including:

• Enhanced flexibility for travellers: With CFAR on hotel bookings, hotels can delight customers by offering them new flexibility options when booking. This product is a win-win for customer satisfaction and revenue.

• Higher Conversion Rates: By offering CFAR powered by HTS, hoteliers can significantly increase direct booking conversion, maximizing the return on marketing spend and reinforcing the value of direct distribution.
• Revenue Opportunities: Hoteliers not only secure guaranteed revenue from CFAR bookings but can also earn additional revenue by reselling cancelled room nights, turning flexibility into a new driver of occupancy and profit.
• Commission on Fees: Hoteliers earn commissions on CFAR fees, turning flexibility into a direct revenue opportunity.
• Competitive Edge: This capability helps hoteliers capture bookings that might otherwise go elsewhere by giving travelers the flexibility and reassurance they’re looking for, directly through the hotel’s website.

“This collaboration with HTS is a true industry first, and a game-changer for independent hoteliers,” said Adam Harris, CEO & Co-founder at Cloudbeds. “By integrating HTS’ CFAR directly into the Cloudbeds platform, we’re empowering our partners to compete head-to-head with OTAs, while delivering the flexibility and peace of mind today’s travelers demand. Most importantly, it allows our customers to increase their direct booking conversions and make their marketing spend more efficient. It’s a win-win for hotels and guests alike.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with Cloudbeds to bring our travel fintech solutions to independent hotels at scale,” said Dakota Smith, President & Co-Founder of Hopper and HTS. “This partnership not only levels the playing field for hoteliers but also creates a better, more flexible booking experience for travelers. By driving higher conversion on direct channels, we’re helping hotels strengthen their direct relationships with guests. Together, we’re setting a new standard for the industry.”

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in hospitality technology, redefining what’s possible for independent hotels and their guests. The integration is available now to Cloudbeds customers.

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The post ROOST Apartment Hotel to Debut in Austin  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 Method Co., the nationally acclaimed real estate management, development, and design company behind the ROOST Apartment Hotel brand, and LV Collective, an Austin-based experiential real estate development company, announced plans for a new design-centric, 59-room hotel property scheduled to open early winter 2025. As a pioneer in the high-design short-term stay space since its debut in 2014, ROOST Apartment Hotel has redefined short and long-term travel accommodations by blending the sophistication and service of a boutique hotel with the comfort and livability of a thoughtfully designed apartment. The brand’s newest location, named ROOST Rainey, will be located on floors 14 through 17 within the 48-story Paseo mixed-use development at 80 Rainey St. in one of Austin’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

“We’re thrilled to bring the ROOST Apartment Hotel experience to Austin, marking not only our debut in Texas but also our farthest expansion west to date,” said Randall Cook, Co-Founder and CEO of Method Co. “Austin’s creative energy and strong sense of community align perfectly with the ROOST ethos, and we couldn’t imagine a better partner than LV Collective to help bring our vision to life within the Paseo development. Together, we’re creating a space that blends thoughtful design, comfort, and hospitality to serve both travelers and locals, while injecting new energy into one of the city’s most beloved and vibrant neighborhoods.”

ROOST Rainey will feature a mix of fully-furnished studio, one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartment hotel units with interiors designed in collaboration between LV Collective and  Method Co.’s in-house design firm, Method Studios. A staple of ROOST properties, each apartment hotel unit offers a full-size kitchen, in-unit laundry, and curated furnishings that embody a refined, tailored, and livable design approach perfect for stays ranging from a few days to a several weeks, along with 24-hour concierge service.

Guests at ROOST Rainey will have access to Paseo’s elevated amenities, including a 12th-floor pool deck with views of Lady Bird Lake and bar service; a fitness center with a reformer Pilates and yoga studio, cold plunges, and saunas; and two floors of dedicated coworking space with private pods and conference rooms. Paseo’s “Artist in Residence Program” will also provide opportunities for bespoke events and experiences ROOST guests can participate in. ROOST guests will also benefit from several highly-anticipated food & beverage concepts housed within Paseo, including the ground-level Daydreamer Café serving coffee, beer and wine; Amaya, an upscale Mediterranean concept; and a forthcoming Italian steakhouse scheduled to open next year.

“Paseo represents the next step in redefining what experiential living can be,” said David Kanne, CEO of LV Collective. “By seamlessly blending the hospitality of a hotel with the residential experience, we’ve created a place where every detail—from the design to the amenities—has been intentionally curated to inspire connection and discovery. It’s about blurring the boundaries between how people live, stay, and engage with the city in one continuous elevated experience.”

ROOST Rainey marks the brand’s first property in Texas and eighth overall, following the recent opening of ROOST White House in Washington, D.C. ROOST’s debut in Austin will bring the city its first high-design, short-term stay hotel concept and provide an ideal home away from home for Austin’s over 20 million travelers each year in need of sophisticated and comfortable accommodations ideally situated for experiencing the destination, work travel, and long term stays.

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