Innovation

🏨 Across Europe, ageing hotels are being converted into tech-enabled serviced apartments due to rising construction costs, operational inefficiencies, and evolving guest expectations. These conversions, driven by companies like Bob W, offer self-service flexibility, reducing labour and operational costs. Serviced apartments yield better returns than traditional hotels, especially in Germany and the Nordics. Conversions are quicker and cheaper than new builds, offering both financial and environmental benefits, and align well with today’s digital-savvy travelers' preferences.

📰 Major trade show ITB, celebrating its 60th year, will take place on 3-5 March, featuring Travolution's AI Track on 4 March. 🗓️ The AI-focused session, sponsored by Travolution, includes speakers such as Google's Head of Customer Engineering and SNCF Connect & Tech CEO Anne Pruvot, and takes place from 2:30 pm in Hall 6.1. Key topics include how Agentic AI is reshaping travel, with insights from industry leaders like Stephanie Madée from Amadeus and James Lemon from Stripe. 🚆

✈️ GoTravelX achieved a breakthrough by using blockchain on Camino Network to transform United Airlines flight data into a single verifiable source. This proof of concept enables real-time updates for airport operations, enhancing coordination for teams like ground support and maintenance through a subscription model. Paul Khanna of GoTravelX confirmed the shift from proof to rollout, while Anke Hsu of Chain4Travel emphasized the importance of a consistent data source. Key uses include real-time notifications for flight events.

✈️ Skyscanner launched a ChatGPT app for flight searches in the UK and US, following Booking.com, Expedia, and others. Users can find and compare flight options by typing simple queries, like "find the cheapest flight to New York in December." Piero Sierra, Skyscanner's Chief AI Officer, emphasizes evolving search towards dynamic, natural language experiences. This innovation aims to enhance decision-making and build traveler trust through intuitive, conversational interactions.

🏨 Bilt, a New York startup, announced Bilt Verified on Thursday, enabling hotels with Forbes Travel Guide star ratings to connect with Bilt's platform. This follows Bilt's creation of Home Away From Home, featuring 1,700+ luxury properties via Virtuoso travel advisors. Guests get a $100 hotel credit, free breakfast, flexible check-in/out, and possible room upgrades.

📱 AI tools revolutionize travel by enhancing discoverability and enabling direct bookings. Hotels not featured risk losing customers and revenue. Ensure your hotel is visible in AI search results to maintain brand awareness.

📈 AI is transforming the travel industry, offering hotels a chance to regain visibility from OTAs. Using AI-ready formats, Shiji Horizon Distribution and Iceportal Content help hotels convert interest into direct bookings and revenue. Key trends from the Adyen Hospitality & Travel Report 2025 highlight the rapid acceleration of AI in travel planning. Hotel brands can now connect directly with travelers, with major contributions from Booking.com and Expedia Group, enhancing AI visibility and brand engagement.