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The 7 best online travel agencies in the UK

Best online travel agency for business travel, 1. travelperk: perfect for business travellers going the extra mile.

Main offerings and features:

• UK-based headquarters for smooth customer support
• Extensive inventory of travel services
• Flexible booking with FlexiPerk
• Safety alerts with TravelCare
• Integrated travel policy & approval flows
• Centralised invoicing
• Easy & real-time expense reports
• Carbon offsetting with GreenPerk
• 24/7 customer support with a 15s target
• VAT reclaim
• Integration with 3rd party tools , such as expense management or HR software like Expensify and BambooHR

See how to save money by automating your booking process

Best online travel agencies for leisure travel in the united kingdom, 2. travel supermarket: a travel agent part of moneysupermarket.

Key features:

• Get access to expert travel advice from the experienced team
• Includes: all-inclusive, long haul, beach-themed, and more types of holidays
• Europe-wide car hire is also available through the website
• Get inspired to find some winter sun with their “where’s hot” search filter

3. Lastminute: great for spontaneous travellers—or those that forgot to book!

• 1,500+ employees in offices across the globe
• An intuitive booking tool for flights, hotels, or both
• Get inspired with their ‘ deal finder’ search
• Also book the theatre, cars, ground transport, and the Eurostar

4. Hays Travel: great for those looking to travel with peace of mind

• Available on Whatsapp to bring your deals on the go
• Booking centre: if you’d prefer to plan your trip in-store with an agent
• ATOL scheme: to ensure you’re protected should something happen to the holiday company while you’re away
• Hays prepaid Travel Money Card for worldwide cash withdrawals and 24/7 customer support

5. Thomas Cook: one of the UK’s most renowned tour operators

• Score the best service on any holiday as Thomas Cook are members of ABTA
• A huge selection of beach to cheap to luxury holidays to choose from
• Availability to book your travel money, travel insurance, and airport transport
• A fantastic holiday advice magazine to keep you inspired when booking

6. Easy Jet Holidays: for holiday goers on a budget

• Best price guarantees and low deposits—from £60pp
• Book flights, manage bookings, and access your boarding passes via the app
• Holidays that are easier on the credit card by splitting your payments out
• Cancel up to 60 days before you travel and get your deposit back as EasyJet credit

7. Tui: great for those looking to fly from local and go global

• Tours and multi-destination trip for a tailor-made retreat
• A huge selection of ocean and river cruises for that perfect holiday on the water
• Plenty of holiday deals to inspire a trip on any budget
• A nifty holiday budget calculator to help you figure out your spending money

Closing out British travel companies worth considering

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Best Online Travel Agencies

Booking.com is our top choice for making your trip arrangements

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

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Planning a trip can be easier through an online travel agency than if you handle each aspect of the planning separately. You can book hotels, air travel, rental cars, and more through a single site, and booking everything together sometimes results in discounts. By inputting a destination, a range of dates, and other preferences, you will see a list of options for each aspect of travel.

The best online travel agencies offer options from the largest number of airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, and more. Look for sites that offer discounts for combining reservations for different aspects of your trip. For example, the best sites will have lower rates if you book both plane tickets and a hotel through their services. The best sites also provide reviews from customers who actually have booked through the service. These are our top picks.

• Best Overall: Booking.com
• Best Budget: Skyscanner
• Best Price Predictor: Hopper
• Most Innovative: Kiwi.com
• Best for Eco-Conscious: Kind Traveler
• Best for Social Impact: I Like Local
• Best for Design-Forward Homestays: Plum Guide
• Our Top Picks
• Booking.com

Kind Traveler

I Like Local

• See More (4)

Final Verdict

Frequently asked questions, methodology, best overall : booking.com.

 Booking.com

This industry leader offers one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms on the Internet.

Lots of options to choose from

Interface is easy to use

Numerous filters to customize your search

Tricky to tell whether changes/cancellations can be made with Booking.com or the vendor directly

Booking.com was founded in 1996 and has grown into an industry leader that stands out for being one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms out there. From one website, you can compare and book accommodations, flights (including one-way and multi-city flights), sightseeing activities, and even airport taxis. The website lists more than 28 million accommodation options, from hotels, hostels, and B&Bs to vacation homes and luxury resorts—you can browse more choices per destination on Booking.com than other online travel agencies. The website also performs well on cost and typically returns lower-than-average prices for flights and hotels. 

Booking.com's interface is also easy to use. On the home page, search for a hotel by entering your chosen destination and dates. Then, use the extensive list of filters—such as price range and distance from the city center—to narrow the results down and find the best fit. You can also search for a specific hotel, or seek inspiration by clicking through options grouped by destination or property type or by topic such as the country’s best Michelin-starred hotel restaurants or the top cities for vegan travelers. The flights, car rental, and other tabs are just as intuitive. 

Best Budget : Skyscanner

 Skyscanner

You can compare prices across airlines, hotels, and car rentals.

Simple interface

Option to toggle searches between specific dates or by monthly calendars

Search Everywhere button is great for spontaneous planners

Extra clicks are required to make a final purchase

Must read fine print for changes/cancellations—may need to deal directly with the vendor

Ads on the sidebar can be distracting

Find deals on airfare, hotels, and car rentals with an aggregator site like Skyscanner , which uses a metasearch engine to compare prices from all online travel agencies and the airline, hotel, or car rental company in question. Run searches with fixed dates, opt to compare airfare prices month to month, or click “Cheapest Month.” Searches also include options for nearby airports or non-stop flights only. With hotel searches, you can choose to select only from properties with free cancellation, a cleanliness rating of 4.5/5 or higher, or 3- or 4-starred hotels only. Car rental searches include an option to select “return car to different location.”

Once you’ve found the best rate, click on the link to be redirected to the third-party site to make your booking. Feeling spontaneous? The Search Everywhere button on the homepage offers a list of the cheapest flight deals for destinations both locally and across the world—just plug in your departure airport first.

Best Price Predictor : Hopper

The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting when flights and hotel rates will be cheapest.

Color-coded system makes it easy to determine cheapest days to buy

App is easy to use

Option to track flights and receive alerts when the best time to buy arises

Some have mentioned the app functions better as a research tool than a booking tool

Unclear whether Hopper will price match if you find a cheaper flight elsewhere

Hopper is a travel app available on iOS and Android that aims to help travelers save on airfare by usng historical data and their own algorithm to predict when flights will be cheapest. Just type in where and when you’d like to fly and Hopper will present you with a color-coded pricing calendar indicating how much tickets are likely to cost. (Green is the least expensive, then yellow, orange, and red for most expensive.) Hopper will also recommend you either buy now or wait, or you can choose to watch a trip and receive notifications on the best time to buy. In addition, the app has expanded to offer hotel and car rental price predictions, too.

Some newer features since the app’s inception in 2009 include an option to freeze a price for a limited time—for an extra fee—as well as exclusive app-only discounts. Hopper is free to download, and you can choose to book directly through the app, though some users mentioned they use Hopper as more of a research tool before booking directly with the airline or hotel. The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting flight rates up to a year ahead.

Most Innovative : Kiwi.com

This metasearch engine scours the web to piece together the ideal itinerary using planes, trains, buses, and more.

Creative itineraries get you where you need to go, especially if you’ve got a multi-stop trip

Kiwi Guarantee offers rebooking or cancellation protections

Nomad option appeals to travelers with a lot of flexibility

Creative itineraries mean you may not fly out of the same airport you flew into

Kiwi Guarantee has an additional fee

Charges all-in-one fee for booking flights, trains, buses (though you can always purchase a la carte)

Travelers planning multi-city destinations and seeking a bargain, as well as those looking to take planes, trains, and automobiles to get there, might consider Kiwi . Kiwi is a metasearch engine that scours and pieces together itineraries from various airlines (even if they don’t have a codeshare agreement), considers multiple airports (even if your arrival airport is different from departure), and offers booking options, whether you’re looking at very specific dates or more general ones (up to 60 nights).

Some will find the ability to make multiple bookings for a particular trip more convenient than going at it manually several different times, though note that you must opt into the Kiwi Guarantee program to access rebooking and refund protections should your reservation change or be canceled. Kiwi’s Nomad option allows you to plug in a bunch of destinations you’d like to visit and the length of your intended stay, and the website will churn out the most affordable itineraries for review.

Best for Eco-Conscious : Kind Traveler

A give-and-get business model means booking accommodations with exclusive perks, a donation to environmental organizations, and more.

All participating hotels include a local give-back component

Exclusive savings and perks

Participating hotels are located in some of the most beautiful places in the world

Inventory is much smaller compared to other booking platforms

Some of the amenities mentioned are based on availability only

In 2022, Kind Traveler (an online trave agency focused on hotel bookings) announced an increase in environmentally and socially conscious hotels, charity donations, voluntourism opportunities, and additional perks like waived resort fees or a welcome amenity.

Unlock exclusive hotel rates and perks from participating Kind Traveler hotels with a minimum $10/night minimum donation to a local charity. For example, stay at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives and receive up to $33 off the nightly rate and perks such as a food and beverage credit and an Earth Lab or Alchemy Bar workshop when you make a donation to Manta Trust. The organization funds coastal research to protect the island nation’s large yet fragile population of reef mantas.

Select from more than 140 participating hotels from the Hawaiian Islands to Bozeman, Montana, and the Maldives. Charities include wildlife, human rights, arts, education, and environmental preservation organizations.

Best for Social Impact : I Like Local

Choose from a host of travel experiences with the peace of mind that 100 percent of the cost goes directly to local partners.

Social impact mission woven into organization’s business model

Immersive experiences led by local guides

Range of experiences offered

May not be best fit for those seeking upscale, luxury experiences and stays

Can’t sort experiences by a list of countries (though an interactive map is available)

No experiences outside of Africa and Asia

For an online travel agency with a booking platform designed to route dollars spent directly to the communities travelers intend to visit, consider I Like Local . Visit the website to browse a host of travel experiences in countries including Indonesia, Kenya, and Cambodia. Experiences include homestays and farmstays as well as wellness and culturally oriented experiences—from cooking and cycling tours to weaving classes.

To search for an experience, select from drop-down items like travel dates and experience categories, or view a global map and click on a country to view experiences that way.

The platform got its start in 2014 and has grown to 4,000 local hosts across nearly 20 countries. As a social impact organization, 100 percent of each booking fee goes to local hosts. To date, 16,000 travelers have booked with I Like Local.

Best for Design-Forward Homestays : Plum Guide

Browse and book seriously vetted, design-forward vacation homes.

Highly curated inventory of vacation rentals across the world

Design-forward

Thorough vetting process

Does not publish guest reviews

Other platforms have homes available across more destinations

When it comes to booking a vacation home, serviced apartment, or condo, travelers are spoiled for choice. Plum Guide is an online travel agency that specializes in accommodations—though not just any home makes its directory. The company claims that each potential home listed on its site must jump through 150 hoops to be included, from internet speed and mattress and pillow quality to the showers’ water pressure and the home’s proximity to dining, shopping, and attractions.

Search by a featured collection on the website such as “ pet-friendly homes ” or “one-of-a-kind homes in Palm Springs.” Scroll to the bottom of its homepage to view its top destinations, as well as a list of all destinations where Plum Guide homes are available, including Barbados, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, the U.S., and Turkey. Note: From the top right-hand corner of the site, use the dropdown menu to select currency of choice.

As long as you know what you value most out of your travel experience—such as affordability, social impact, or luxe accommodations—there’s an online travel agency to help plan your next trip. Be sure to read the fine print, as some agencies are third-party websites and not direct vendors. If you're not sure where to start, Booking.com is your best bet for a smooth user experience and hard-to-beat offers on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.

What Is the Biggest Travel Agency?

Our choice for best overall, Booking.com, is known as an industry leader with listings for all major hotels, airlines, car rental companies, and more. It boasts more choices for accommodations per destination than any other site, and we found its interface to be user-friendly.

Are Online Travel Agencies Worth It?

This depends on your needs and priorities. The best online travel agencies certainly can save time by booking everything all at once. However, if you're someone who is good at haggling and enjoys the details of planning a trip, you might be able to find better deals by reaching out to hotels or other destinations and speaking to someone personally.

Is It Cheaper to Book Online Than With a Travel Agent?

Not always. A travel agent you know and trust should have the experience and connections to find deals that can match or surpass what you'll find online. Additionally, if something goes wrong, travel agents provide you with an actual person you can use as an advocate to correct the problem . But if you don't have access to a good travel agent, online sites still provide plenty of ways to streamline planning and save money .

We considered dozens of online travel agencies and narrowed down the options based on user experience, volume and quality of inventory, unique offerings and specials, and customer reviews. We also assessed travel companies’ environmentally and socially conscious policies.

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* 0800 calls are free for landlines and mobiles. 0333 calls are included within inclusive minutes package on mobiles, otherwise standard rates apply. 0844/0845 calls are 7p/pm plus your local carrier charge. Prices are per person twin share, correct as at the date of publication, subject to change and may be higher/unavailable for certain dates. Airfares are economy on specified airlines from London, unless otherwise stated. For full booking conditions visit Booking Conditions . Some of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. We will provide you with information on the protection that applies in the case of each holiday and travel service offered before you make your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but not all the parts of your trip are listed on it, those parts not listed will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.caa.co.uk .

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9 of the best travel websites

Take the hassle out of holiday planning with our guide to the websites that do the hard work for you.

T he first place most of us look when planning a trip is online — but where should you start? If you have a preferred travel agent with a high level of customer service, they will likely handle the details for you. But when you’re arranging the trip yourself, you can spend hours browsing online and end up more confused than when you started.

If you’d like destination inspiration, take a look at Times Travel . But if you want to piece the trip together yourself, these websites are our favourites for everything from flights to passenger rights and books for the beach.

Main photo: karst mountains in China (Getty Images)

1. FlightConnections

Best for flight planning Have an idea of where you want to go, but flexible on which airports you could use? Or maybe you just want to see which routes operate non-stop from your nearest airport. No other website makes a map of the world’s international routing options as clear and easy to understand as FlightConnections.

If you’re in Birmingham and you don’t fancy schlepping to a London airport, for example, you can see at a glance that there are non-stop flights from BHX to Cancun, Egypt, the Canaries and Dubai. Or maybe you want to go to Valencia in Spain, but you can’t find any flights from BHX. With FlightConnections, you might see that non-stop flights are available from Nottingham East Midlands (EMA) — a much closer journey than London.

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Click on your preferred route, and it’ll also show you which dates the route operates non-stop, so you know which dates to search for.

Best for flight price comparison The top four players — Google Flights , Kayak , Momondo and Skyscanner — are all excellent flight-comparison websites.

But Kayak has the edge. Its search results pages are clear and have the best range of useful filters. You can see instantly how much premium economy on the same route would cost, for example, instead of having to do another search from scratch. You can add a cabin bag or hold bag, easily remove the results from airports you don’t want to have your layover in, and even narrow your search to the type of aircraft you’d prefer to fly with.

Best for hotel bookings A lot of people think Booking.com, Hotels.com and Expedia are hotel-comparison sites. They aren’t — they’re booking sites. Yes, you can book thousands of hotels with them, but they will only show you their own negotiated prices for each particular hotel.

That’s why your first port of call for any hotel research should be Trivago. It takes prices from all of the major hotel-booking sites, including the three mentioned above, plus hundreds more booking sites and online travel agencies.

4. Booking.com

Best for hotel reviews The reviews on TripAdvisor can be written by anyone, whether they’ve stayed at the hotel or not. And multiple investigations have shown how many fake reviews flood the site.

That’s why our go-to site for hotel reviews is Booking.com. Only people who have paid for a booking via Booking.com can write a review. This means its reviews are much more reliable. It’s not 100 per cent foolproof, but it is much more reliable than most alternative review sites. You can find reviews for most of the world’s hotels — and you don’t have to book with them to read the reviews. Just browse, then check out Trivago.co.uk to find the cheapest deal on your preferred hotel.

5. Seat61.com

Best for train advice Thinking of switching plane for train — or riding the rails on a scenic journey at your destination? The first port of call for any train lover should be Seat61.com. What started as a hobby site more than 15 years ago is now the UK’s best site for train advice — for routes all over the world. It covers the best train-booking sites in different destinations, plus how to get the best deals, which seats to choose on many routes, and more.

6. HomeExchange

Best for house swaps What’s cheaper — and arguably better — than the likes of Airbnb and Vrbo? A free home swap — mi casa es su casa. Unlike Airbnb, no money changes hands between homeowners. You’ll pay a fee to join the site, but during your membership period, on most sites, you are allowed to make as many free home exchanges as you can negotiate with other homeowners.

Each site has its pros and cons, but the world’s largest site HomeExchange, which costs $175 (£140)/year to join, wins by virtue of the fact that it lists more than 450,000 homes all over the world. Home-swapping is, ultimately, a numbers game. You’ll massively increase your chances of finding someone suitable to swap with in Sydney if there are more than 100 potential homes in Sydney for you to contact about the arrangement.

7. Zest Car Rental

Best for car hire You can do a car-hire search on the major flight-comparison websites, plus with car-rental comparison specialists, such as Rhino . But there’s a reason Zest Car Rental consistently ranks in the top table of customer surveys and is the choice of Which? as recommended car hire broker.

The game for car-hire companies is to appear at the top of the comparison sites, which means they hide the real cost of the “extras” that are often essential, such as excess-reducing insurance or a full-to-full fuel policy. (With full-to-empty fuel policies, you usually end up paying for fuel you didn’t use when you return the car with a quarter of a tank or more.)

With Zest Car Rental, in most cases, excess-reducing insurance is included in the price you see, and in many cases, the second driver is also included in the rate. Zest only works with providers who have a “fair fuel” policy, and customer services is fast to respond to any questions or problems.

8. TripFiction

Best for literary escapes Whether your travels are strictly armchair this year or you’re heading off on holiday, reading a novel set in your destination can really put you in the mood. The best place to look for your travel reads is TripFiction. Despite the name, it’s not entirely fiction, with biographies, travelogues, history and recipe books sneaking into their listings.

Choose your preferred country or region and browse all titles — or narrow it down by genre, such as crime or fantasy. A list of books appears, with summaries for you to find out more before deciding whether to buy.

9. Civil Aviation Authority

Best for passenger rights At a loss for what to do if your flight gets cancelled, your luggage gets lost or you get stuck in queues at security and miss a flight ? You’ll find all of your passenger rights on the Civil Aviation Authority website.

It’s worth taking a look before your trip, too, so you can be sure you have suitable travel insurance to help with the increasingly common problems that the law doesn’t provide enough coverage for, such as delays at airport security.

• 8 amazing carry-on bags: the best hand luggage revealed • Will travel insurance cover flight cancellation? Everything you need to know • Where can I travel without a vaccine?

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the value for money and there range of locations the tours and guides they use are very good mercury holidays are my first choice when planning my holiday they have given me the chance to experience many wonderful places and people along the way i am truly happy to give mercury holidays 5 stars and long may they continue thanks mercury.

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Are Online Travel Agencies Safe To Use? 👨🏻‍💻 17 Best Online Travel Agencies For Seamless Journeys: Travel Like A Pro ✈️

Are Online Travel Agencies Safe To Use? Online travel agencies are generally safe to use, but it’s essential to choose reputable and well-established platforms with positive customer reviews.

The rise of online travel agencies (OTAs) has made travel planning and booking extremely easy in today’s world.

By providing passengers from all over the world with a variety of services, offers, and packages, these platforms have changed the travel business.

Online travel agents can help you with your search for flights, hotels, holiday packages, or tours.

🤔 What are online travel agencies?

4. travelocity, 5. skyscanner, 6. lastminute.com, 8. trip.com, 10. booking.com, 11. expedia, 12. tripadvisor, 14. priceline, 15. cheapoair.

• 🧐 Things To Consider While Making Reservation Through OTA's

⭐ Advantages & Disadvantages of Online Travel Agencies

Q. is it cheaper to book online or through a travel agent, q. do online travel agencies offer better deals than airlines and hotels directly, q. can i trust user-generated reviews on online travel agency platforms, q. do online travel agencies provide customer support, q. are there any hidden fees when booking through online travel agencies.

• Q. Are the Online Travel Agencies Reliable?

Q. Do Online Travel Agencies offer personalized itineraries?

Q. are online travel agencies more expensive than booking directly, q. can i book international trips through online travel agencies, 😇 conclusion, 🗨️ tell us in the comments as per you which one is the best online travel agencies.

Online Travel Agency (OTA) is the name for a website that sells travel services. It lets customers book flights, hotels, and other trips all from one place. They are like a travel agent in the digital world.

📃 List of 17 Best Online Travel Agencies at Your Fingertips

After a lot of research and considering travelers’ reviews we have shortlisted some of the best online travel companies that are operational nowadays.

• Travelocity
• Lastminute.com
• Booking.com
• TripAdvisor

A US-based internet travel company called VRBO focuses on vacation rentals. Landlords and managers can directly register their houses on VRBO, similar to Airbnb.

When booking through Vrbo, visitors may also get travel insurance. In addition to being a part of one of the largest travel companies in the world, VRBO has a reputation for being a trustworthy lodging option.

A website called Parkos.com makes airport parking stress-free. Thanks to the company’s new online platform, potential consumers can now compare various airport parking and facilities, make a reservation, and pay for it in advance of their trip day.

Both locals and visitors have provided overwhelmingly good feedback since Parkos entered the parking sector in 2014.

All technologically aided services revolve around giving automobile owners confidence that their vehicles are safe when they are away from them.

The majority of people may gain more from this comparison, but those who drive pricey high-end cars may find it interesting.

Also Read: 10 Best Places For New Year Celebration

Hotel reservations are the focus of Agoda , a multinational online travel firm located in Singapore.

Along with many other comparable OTAs on this list, it is owned by Booking Holdings, the parent company of Booking.com.

The Agoda network, which offers more than a million hotels and vacation rentals, is primarily focused on the Asian economy but has now grown into Europe and the United States.

The company’s marketing strategy is centered on giving customers affordable or reduced housing.

In 1996, Travelocity was established as an online travel agency with several services for customers. It is owned and operated by the international travel service provider The Expedia Group.

You can check for airfare and hotel bundles, choices for a rental vehicle, cruises, and more using Travelocity’s website.

Additionally, you can read travel-related articles, order tickets for well-liked attractions, and communicate your journey arrangements with loved ones.

A well-known company with a big customer base is Travelocity. They provide a huge selection of vacation packages, many of which are aimed at families.

Skyscanner is a metasearch aggregator that gathers prices for flights, hotels, and rental cars from all online travel agents (OTAs) in one location. Booking flights and hotels with Skyscanner typically results in the most affordable options.

After making your choice, you will be sent to a third-party booking form on the Skyscanner website where you can complete the transaction and reserve your flight.

Skyscanner is used by millions of people to compare rates and options for their travel arrangements. Simply said, it compiles and presents to customers all of the offers from all online travel agencies (OTAs).

Also Read: 15 Best Countries For Solo Travel 

City hopping is a popular pastime in Europe because of how close together the cities are. Among the top three booking sites is lastminute.com .

In this OTA, flight bookings are made through an aggregator website, and hotel reservations are made through an OTA, both of which we have seen before.

Finding last-minute discounts on hotels, flights, and all-inclusive holiday packages is the specialty of the website lastminute.com.

If you’re brave enough to play the chicken, Last Minute has the best travel deals. For tourists looking for a dealer who isn’t scared to wait until the last minute, there are a couple of better OTAs. We’re certain to have the flight or hotel bargain you’re looking for.

Members of Airbnb are allowed to advertise their available lodging and accept overnight reservations. However, the business has added hotels and homestays to its list of offerings.

However, Air b nb is extremely particular about the standards it must uphold when it comes to hotels that can be offered on its platform.

The majority of hotels must demonstrate their distinctive design, how the neighborhood affects their rooms, and how guests can access communal areas.

The most economical choice may be an Airbnb vacation rental. Additionally, compared to hotels, you are more likely to locate more beds in the same property on Airbnb.

Many Airbnbs provide sofas or futons to accommodate larger groups. For longer visits, many of these hotels provide kitchens and washing machines, enabling visitors to save money by preparing their meals.

The largest OTA in China, Trip.com , a Chinese firm, created Trip.com, an international OTA. Trip.com’s marketing initiatives are primarily aimed at domestic and international travelers to China.

Contrarily, Trip.com has a partnership with Booking.com that enables it to broaden its global reach.

Today, Trip.com has hundreds of millions of users worldwide. The organization wants to give both domestic and foreign travelers the best travel experiences possible.

Wotif also owns LastMinute, a website that offers last-minute discounts on lodging, transportation, and other travel essentials to Australians and New Zealanders.

This local internet travel business mostly caters to travelers from the UK and Europe. On this website, tourists can search for and buy flights, lodging, auto rentals, excursions, and package deals.

Also Read: 11 Best Ways To Become A Travel Enthusiast

The biggest hotel booking website in the world, Booking.com , also lets you book travel and a rental car. It can be used by travelers to learn about different types of lodging, locations, and offers.

However, making reservations for different types of lodging is where its true power lies. For the typical person, it serves as an all-inclusive travel agency.

Hotels and other accommodation facilities are only billed by Booking.com after a reservation is made.

There isn’t a monthly cost that must be paid. An all-inclusive internet travel firm called Bookin.com provides lodging and travel options all around the world.

Online travel agencies (OTAs) are a business model used by many E x pedia Group businesses, notably Expedia, the largest OTA.

The company was founded in 2001 and was based in Bellevue, Washington, in the US.

It is one of the most prosperous travel companies in the world, having localized websites in more than 40 nations.

Expedia has provided access to flights, hotels, and rental cars for more than ten years. They are the largest travel company in the world.

Its marketing plan places a strong emphasis on the value of providing affordable lodging options.

Expedia is an excellent option if you want to pay for your airfare, hotel, and car hire all at once.

One of the most well-known travel platforms, TripAdvisor provides a variety of user-generated information in addition to booking services.

Travelers get access to reviews, images, and ratings posted by other travelers, allowing them to plan their trips with greater knowledge.

The website also offers the ability to compare flights and book excursions and other activities, making it a complete online travel agency (OTA).

A meta-search engine called Kayak searches the internet for the finest travel offers on several platforms.

It provides full results on a single page by comparing costs for airfare, accommodation, rental cars, and other services.

Users of its “Explore” feature can find new places to go and the most cost-effective times to travel.

Budget-conscious travelers choose Kayak because of its simple UI and time-saving features.

The “Name Your Own Price” option on Priceline is known for allowing customers to place bids on hotel rooms and rental vehicles at the prices they like.

Priceline provides regular booking choices like flights, hotels, and rental cars in addition to the bidding system, which may not appeal to everyone.

Travelers who are flexible with their travel plans can take advantage of their Express Deals feature, which offers big reductions on unpublished rates.

Travelers seeking low-cost airline options without sacrificing quality are catered to by CheapOair .

The network appeals to people who are concerned about their spending because it offers exclusive deals and discounts on hotels, flights, and car rentals.

CheapOair makes arranging travel reservations simple with its user-friendly interface and round-the-clock customer service.

Flights, hotels, holiday packages, and activities are just a few of the travel options that Orbitz provides.

Orbitz Rewards, the platform’s loyalty program, enables customers to earn rewards and take advantage of special member advantages.

If customers discover lower rates elsewhere, Orbitz guarantees they will be refunded the difference with its price guarantee promise.

Hotwire is known for providing significantly lower rates for accommodation, travel, and transportation.

Partner hotels can offer lower rates without publicly undercutting their usual pricing because the platform hides the identity of specific hotels until after booking.

For tourists eager to take advantage of this method of surprise booking, Hotwire’s “Hot Rates” provide huge savings.

🧐 Things To Consider While Making Reservation Through OTA’s

When making reservations through an Online Travel Agency (OTA), consider the following:

• Price and Deals: Compare prices and look for exclusive deals and discounts offered by the OTA.
• Cancellation Policies: Understand the OTA’s cancellation and refund policies to avoid any inconvenience in case of changes in your plans.
• User Reviews: Check user reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability and quality of the service.
• Customer Support: Ensure the OTA provides accessible and responsive customer support for assistance during and after booking.
• Hidden Fees: Be wary of hidden fees or additional charges that may not be clearly stated upfront.
• Booking Security: Verify the OTA’s security measures to protect your personal and financial information.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for added protection against unexpected events.
• Flexibility: Choose an OTA that offers flexible booking options to accommodate any last-minute changes.
• Available Services: Confirm that the OTA offers the services you need, such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities.
• User-Friendly Interface: Opt for an OTA with an intuitive and easy-to-navigate website or app for a seamless booking experience.

Advantages of Online Travel Agencies

• Convenience: Users can book flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements from the comfort of their homes, saving time and effort.
• Wide Selection: Online travel agencies offer a vast inventory of travel options, providing a variety of choices for different budgets and preferences.
• Price Comparison: Users can compare prices across multiple airlines, hotels, and car rental companies to find the best deals.
• User Reviews: Travelers can read reviews and ratings from other users to make informed decisions about their bookings.
• Exclusive Deals: Many online travel agencies offer exclusive discounts and promotions for their customers.
• 24/7 Access: Online travel agencies are available round the clock, allowing users to make bookings at any time.

Disadvantages of Online Travel Agencies

• Hidden Fees : Some online travel agencies may have hidden fees or additional charges that are not disclosed upfront.
• Lack of Personalized Service: Unlike traditional travel agents, online platforms may lack personalized recommendations and support.
• Technical Issues: Technical glitches or website outages can cause inconvenience and delay in making bookings.
• Limited Flexibility: Some online travel agencies have strict cancellation and refund policies, limiting flexibility for travelers.
• Scams and Fraud: There is a risk of encountering fraudulent websites or services when booking through unknown or unverified platforms.
• Overwhelming Options: The abundance of choices on online travel agency websites can sometimes lead to decision paralysis for users.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs For Online Travel Agencies

There are a lot of questions that come to our mind while making reservations through online travel agencies some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

A. Booking online often offers better deals and discounts compared to traditional travel agents.

A. Yes, online travel agencies often negotiate special deals and discounts with airlines and hotels, which can result in more cost-effective options for travelers.

A. While most user-generated reviews are genuine and helpful, it’s essential to consider multiple sources and exercise discernment when making decisions based on reviews.

A. Yes, reputable online travel agencies offer customer support via phone, email, or live chat to assist with booking inquiries and travel-related issues.

A. While some online travel agencies may charge service fees or have specific booking terms, reputable platforms are transparent about any additional costs during the booking process.

Q. Are the Online Travel Agencies Reliable ?

A. Absolutely! Online Travel Agencies are reputable and reliable. They work with established partners and have a track record of excellent customer service.

A. Yes, they do! Online Travel Agencies take your preferences and interests into account to craft personalized itineraries tailored to your needs.

A. Not necessarily. Online Travel Agencies often secure exclusive deals and discounts, making them competitive with direct bookings.

A. Yes, you can! Best Online Travel Agencies offer a wide range of international travel options and guide visa requirements.

In conclusion, online travel companies have completely changed how we organize and book our journeys.

These OTAs have evolved into crucial tools for modern travelers thanks to their user-friendly interfaces, vast inventory, and affordable prices.

The top online travel agencies included in this article can assist you in organizing an enjoyable trip, regardless of whether you are an experienced traveler or preparing for your first excursion.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

Unlock Your Adventure: 💡 Mastering the 23+ Best International Travel Tips for Seamless Journeys! 🌍✈️ Exclusive Offer Inside!

13 Things Not to Forget When Traveling Internationally: Essential Tips for International Travel

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Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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Aero Travels is one of the top, modern and flexible online UK travel agents. Offering a sought out, wide range of travel and holiday destinations around the world, from European countries Italy, Greece, France to tropical countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka and all the way to America.

Popular among UK travel agents, Aero Travels take pride in offering the best facilities and flexibility with personal customization to meet all your requirements. Giving attention to every little detail of your needs, Aero Travels have been known for its excellent service provider among cheap online Travel Agents in UK.

Most popular destinations among European tour packages are Paris, Prague and Vienna, Amsterdam, Iceland, Berlin city and Rome in Italy. These tours are full of beautiful sightseeing attractions and rich historical beauty and European cuisine which varies from city to city. Aero travels offer this variety at a cheap rate online.

Many travel agents in UK are known for curating Asia tour packages that include exciting sightseeing tours at historical and modern attractions, shopping tours, exploring Asian cuisine and fun packed tours.

From beautiful beaches with crystal clear snorkelling spots in Indonesia to dazzling good markets and beautiful ancient Buddhist temples in Thailand to experiencing exotic island life in Sri Lanka, Asian tour packages have much more to offer.

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The 10 Best Online Travel Agencies: The Top OTAs to Connect to in 2023

Lexi DeMers

Updated: 15 Mar 2024

Online travel agencies don’t just make life easier for travelers. The best online travel agencies also offer a variety of benefits to business owners. From accessing niche markets to benefiting from the billboard effect, listing your hospitality business on popular travel sites has many perks. 

These sites can help you cover low-season lulls or ensure you maximize your bookings year round. Discover how online travel agencies can help you capture your share of the $521 billion online travel market . In this article, we’ll cover the best online travel agencies for hoteliers and other accommodation providers, detail the benefits they offer, and discuss how you can easily manage multiple channels. 

The 10 Online Travel Agencies with the Highest Revenue 

Before you take the time and effort to list your business on a new channel, you’ll want to make sure that it will actually help you gain new guests. Below are the 10 best online travel agencies worldwide by annual revenue , as reported by Statista. 

Booking.com

Edreams odigeo, tripadvisor, manage all your channels with one centralized booking system, a closer look at the best online travel agencies.

All online travel agencies are not created equal. In fact, many channels cater best to specific businesses. Though listing your property on the highest earning online travel agencies is a great strategy, it is even better to understand the markets that each OTA serves. Below, we will take a closer look at the best online travel agencies.

Booking.com is a global powerhouse in the online travel agency sector. Its expansive platform includes a diverse array of property types, ranging from hotels and resorts to apartments and hostels. So it is a great OTA option for a variety of business models. Renowned for its user-friendly interface and extensive property listings, Booking.com attracts travelers from around the world. 

Hotels can seamlessly integrate with this booking engine, streamlining their reservations and room management. On average, Booking.com charges businesses a 15% commission on every booking, though this rate can vary from region to region. 

Expedia is a leading online travel agency known for its global reach and comprehensive travel offerings. This one-stop shop caters to travelers searching for accommodations, flights, car rentals, and vacation packages across the globe. 

Business owners benefit from Expedia's tools like the Partner Central platform, which aids in managing bookings, optimizing rates, and enhancing visibility. Expedia's loyalty program, Expedia Rewards, encourages repeat bookings which is why it is one of the best online travel agencies for hoteliers. However, depending on the region your business is in, Expedia charges 10% to 30% commission. 

Airbnb is a unique online travel agency that connects travelers with a wide range of accommodations, from cozy private rooms to entire homes. While it initially gained fame for its home-sharing platform, it has expanded to include boutique hotels and traditional accommodations. As such, it ranks toward the top of our list of the best online travel agencies. 

Accommodation providers can tap into Airbnb's extensive network, reaching guests from around the world. While there are a few different options, most hosts on Airbnb are charged a 3% commission. Meanwhile, Airbnb charges a 14% service fee to guests on top of the nightly rate you set. 

Trivago is one of the best online travel agencies, but getting your property on the site isn’t as straightforward as the other options on this list. Trivago is a metasearch engine that scours the Internet to find the best hotel deals for travelers. It collects hotel listings and prices from various online travel agencies, hotel chains, and booking sites. 

Owners can leverage Trivago by ensuring their listings are well-optimized on other OTAs. Since it doesn't handle bookings directly, Trivago doesn’t charge business owners any commission and instead gets its revenue from other sites that advertise there. 

Despegar is one of the best online travel agencies, primarily serving the Latin American market. It offers a wide range of travel-related services, including hotel bookings, flights, and car rentals. With a strong presence in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, Despegar provides travelers with a convenient platform to plan and book their trips.

Business owners looking to tap into the Latin American market can benefit from listing their properties on Despegar. It allows them to access a diverse and growing customer base while also providing travelers with options tailored to their preferences and language. Hoteliers can expect to pay 10% to 15% in commission on bookings from this site. 

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As one of the largest online travel agencies globally, Trip.com offers a variety of services to travelers. Formerly known as Ctrip, it has a strong presence in the Asian market but has expanded its reach to cater to a diverse international audience. Travelers can use Trip.com to book hotels, flights, trains, car rentals, and other travel-related services. 

Accommodation providers aiming to attract travelers from Asia and beyond can benefit from partnering with Trip.com. As one of the best online travel agencies, it provides access to a vast customer base seeking a variety of accommodation options. By listing on Trip.com, you can expect to pay anywhere between 10% to 25% in commission. 

eDreams Odigeo is a leading European online travel agency that serves as an umbrella for several well-known brands, including eDreams, Opodo, GO Voyages, and Travellink. It caters to travelers seeking a wide range of travel products and services. By partnering with eDreams Odigeo, accommodation providers can tap into the European market and beyond. 

Whether you run a boutique hotel or manage a large resort, listing your property on one of the  eDreams Odigeo sites allows you to reach travelers from various European countries. Depending on the exact site you list your business on, you may pay commission or your guests may pay service fees. 

As a prominent online travel agency in India, MakeMyTrip has a strong foothold in the South Asian market. It offers a range of travel services, including flights, hotels, and holiday packages. By listing your property on MakeMyTrip, you can tap into the growing Indian travel market and attract travelers looking for both domestic and international accommodation options. 

MakeMyTrip's user-friendly interface and extensive marketing efforts make it a valuable platform for reaching travelers across India and the Indian diaspora. After some controversy over excessive rates in 2019, MakeMyTrip pledged to cap its commission at 22% . However, your guests will also be charged a booking fee when making reservations on this site. 

If you're targeting spontaneous travelers or those seeking last-minute deals, Lastminute.com is the best online travel agency to consider. As the name suggests, it specializes in providing travelers with a wide array of last-minute options, from flights and hotels to car rentals and activities. 

By partnering with Lastminute.com, you can attract travelers looking for instant bookings, making it an excellent choice for filling last-minute vacancies. This is great for offering discounts during off-peak periods or showcasing special promotions. To learn more about the commission rates Lastminute charges, it's best to reach out to the company directly. 

Tripadvisor is renowned for its comprehensive database of traveler reviews. But it's also a powerful online travel agency, offering an extensive platform for accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. 

By delivering exceptional experiences to your guests, you can earn positive reviews that attract more travelers to your property. Tripadvisor offers various tools for property owners to manage their listings, showcase their amenities, and respond to reviews, ensuring your property's reputation remains stellar. Plus, Tripadvisor only charges owners a 3% commission fee. 

Other Great OTAs for Your Business 

Aside from the top-performing online travel agencies globally, there are still many more OTAs that can help boost your earnings and expand your audience. Depending on the region you’re in and your ideal target market, the other great online travel agencies below may work well for you. 

VRBO, which stands for Vacation Rental By Owner, is a platform specializing in vacation rental properties. It's a part of the Expedia Group and caters to travelers seeking unique and often more private accommodations, such as vacation homes, cabins, cottages, and condos. VRBO charges owners a 5% commission. 

Hostelworld

Hostelword is one of the best online travel agencies for low-cost accommodations like hostels and budget-friendly hotels. Hostelworld connects hostel owners with a global community of backpackers and budget travelers, making it an essential choice for those operating in the hostel industry. When receiving bookings from Hostelworld, business owners typically pay between 10% and 25%. 

Primarily known for its flight booking services, Hopper has expanded into the hotel industry. This innovative OTA offers travelers a unique approach to booking accommodations. Hopper's app leverages data analytics to predict the best times to book hotels at the lowest rates, helping travelers save money. And the best part of this platform is that it doesn’t charge hosts any commission fees on bookings. 

Strongest in the Asian market, Traveloka offers a comprehensive platform for booking flights, hotels, activities, and other travel-related services. It has gained popularity for its user-friendly interface, competitive prices, and extensive coverage across Southeast Asia. Owners will pay between 10% to 15% of booking revenue in commission to Traveloka. 

Your business. Your Bookings. Your way.

What are the benefits of using an online travel agency.

Online travel agencies have revolutionized the way the hospitality industry operates. They offer a wide array of benefits that cater to both travelers and accommodation providers. In this section, we'll explore the key advantages of collaborating with some of the best online travel agencies.

Higher Booking Volume.   Of course, the main goal of listing your property on an online travel agency is getting more bookings. These sites have large audiences, which can lead to a substantial increase in bookings. 

Market insights. The best online travel agencies provide valuable data and market insights that can help you understand traveler preferences, booking patterns, and trends. In turn, this can inform your pricing, marketing, and property management strategies.

Build an Online Reputation. Many OTAs offer a review system that allows previous guests to share their experiences. Positive reviews and ratings can build trust and credibility, encouraging potential guests to choose your property.

Easier international reach. If you have international guests in mind, the top online travel agencies can help you reach travelers worldwide. They also often support various languages and currencies, making it easier for international guests to book.

Billboard effect. The Billboard Effect describes the phenomenon in which accommodation providers gain more direct bookings on their own websites after listing their property on OTAs. It illustrates that these platforms serve as powerful marketing and distribution channels.

How to Find the Best Online Travel Agencies for Your Business 

While listing your business on all of the best online travel agencies is a smart move, you can go a step further with OTAs. If you want to find the absolute best online travel agencies for your business, you’ll need to identify sites that fit your niche. 

Many OTAs cater to specific audiences, such as Thermal for surf trips and Bookatrekking.com for trekking adventures. There are also great online travel agencies for other niches, including luxury accommodations, yoga retreats, family hotels, and more. Take some time to explore various platforms’ user base and commission rates to determine which OTAs would be best for your business. 

How Can I Manage Multiple OTAs?

While having a presence on multiple OTAs can offer big rewards, having to log into and manage several different platforms is extremely time consuming. Not to mention, you risk double-books and other errors. Thankfully, you can use a channel manager to help streamline your bookings across multiple online travel agencies. 

At Bookinglayer, we offer Channels ; a fully integrated, user-friendly channel manager that allows our clients to maximize their revenue without spending extra time on administration. Channels allows business owners to integrate with up to 35 different platforms while conveniently managing everything from one simple dashboard. 

Want to Learn More About How Bookinglayer Helps Business Owners?

Bookinglayer is an all-in-one software suite designed specifically for adventure travel businesses that have complex booking scenarios. If you want to offer accommodation and activities, Bookinglayer is the most comprehensive platform on the market.

Whether is optimizing your booking flow, automating your payment processing, or streamlining your daily reports, we can help you save time, reduce errors, and increase conversions. You can sign up for a free demo to discover if you are the right fit for our software suite. 

Best Online Travel Agencies FAQ

What is an online travel agency.

An online travel agency is a web-based platform that allows users to research and book a range of travel-related services. Also known as OTAs, these marketplaces display services from various providers. They often include accommodation, flights, rental cars, tours and activities, and more. 

How do online travel agencies work?

Online travel agencies are third-party services that offer users a convenient and easy way to plan and book travel experiences. They aggregate travel services, facilitate bookings, collect payments, and publish reviews. In return, they oftentimes earn a commission from the bookings they sell.  

How do OTAs make money?

OTAs typically make money by charging business owners a commission on the bookings they sell. These commission rates can range from 10% to 30%, depending on the platform you choose and the region you operate in. In addition, some OTAs may also charge customers a service fee to help cover the costs of running the platform. 

What is the downside of using OTAs?

The downside of using an OTA is that you will likely need to pay a commission to the platform. As such, many business owners prefer to collect direct bookings. Nonetheless, the best online travel agencies serve as a great way to advertise your property and can help you increase your revenue, despite the commission charges. 

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Top online travel agencies

Based on Cloudbeds’ data gathered from thousands of customer properties between 2021 (the benchmark used in our last report) and 2023, we’ve seen a remarkable pace of recovery for OTAs. While top OTAs like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb have held onto their spots as the highest-revenue generating OTAs, we saw China’s Trip.com rise two spots, indicating the return of Asian travelers to the market. Here are the highest revenue-generating OTAs of 2023.

Highest revenue-generating OTAs

1. booking.com.

Booking.com is one of the largest and most popular travel websites in the world, with over 1.5 million nights booked every day. Its website and mobile apps are accessible in 43 languages and feature over 50 million verified guest reviews of properties in 200+ countries. Its parent company, Booking Holdings, includes OTA brands and metasearch engines such as Priceline.com, KAYAK, Agoda, Rentalcars.com, OpenTable and more.

Expedia.com is the flagship brand of Expedia Group, which includes 200 travel booking websites, including Hotwire, Orbitz, Trivago, and Travelocity, serving 75 countries in 35 languages with over 600 million monthly visits. The website includes searches for all types of accommodations, as well as booking flights, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages. By activating the Expedia connection, properties will broadcast their inventory on Hotels.com, Wotif, and many other channels.

Airbnb is known for providing access to unique accommodations around the world, with the vast majority of properties located outside of main hotel districts. While the company continues to expand into hotel room inventory following its acquisition of HotelTonight (known for booking last-minute lodging), its community expects a certain type of experience. Namely, something that is less cookie-cutter and more oriented to the local vibe.

4. Hostelworld

HostelWorld is a leading OTA for hostel-focused accommodations worldwide, with 12+ million guest reviews. Their inventory also includes hotels, B&Bs, and other budget accommodation types. Hostelworld aims to be a leader in social travel via its online booking options and mobile app, addressing the needs of guests who want to make connections with others as they experience the world around them. Their app and website operate in 20 different languages.

Agoda was founded in 1998 and later acquired by the Priceline Group (now called Booking Holdings) in 2007. Agoda’s website is available in 38 languages and focuses on listing all types of properties. It’s currently one of the leading online travel booking sites for the Asian market but is pushing into the US, India, and European markets.

6. Trip.com

Trip.com is China’s leading provider of travel services including reservations for accommodation, transportation, tours, and corporate travel. Founded in 1999, the company owns and operates several other OTAs and aggregators, including Trip.com, Skyscanner, Qunar, and Ctrip. 

7. Hotelbeds

By connecting to Hotelbeds, will gain unrivaled exposure to the travel industry’s largest network of B2B buyers, including more than 71,000 tour operators, travel agents, airlines, and loyalty & points schemes which can be great for business travel. 

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo caters to a diverse range of needs and preferences, offering everything from cozy, intimate cabins for romantic getaways to spacious, well-appointed villas suitable for large family reunions or group vacations.

9. Traveloka

Based in Indonesia, Traveloka is one of Asia’s largest online travel agents. Traveloka lists hundreds of thousands of properties across Southeast Asia, Australia, and around the globe. The company also provides lifestyle products and services, such as tickets to attractions, activities, car rentals, and restaurant vouchers.

10. Despegar/Decolar

Despegar/Decolar is a leading online travel company in Latin America, with Despegar functioning as the global brand and Decolar representing the brand in the Brazilian market. Their marketplace operates across 20 markets and offers a broad suite of travel products in the region, including airfare, hotel bookings, travel packages, and other travel products to a large customer base.

Highest revenue-generating OTAs by country

Based on Cloudbeds data, we’ve highlighted the OTAs that are generating the most revenue for our customers in leading travel destinations. 

Hostelworld has moved up on the list across multiple countries, demonstrating that demand for hostels (jumping 5 spots in Thailand and the Philippines), shared accommodations, and experiences is back. In addition, we can see the return of Asian travelers as Agoda and Trip.com rise in North America and make their first appearance on Latin American lists. 

Top 10 OTAs in the U.S

• Booking.com
• Hostelworld 
• Agoda 
• HotelTonight 
• Hotelbeds 

Top 10 OTAs in Canada 

• Booking.com 
• Expedia 
• Dorms.com 
• Mrs & Mrs Smith
• Tripadvisor

Top 10 OTAs in Mexico

• Hostelworld
• Despegar/Decolar 
• PriceTravel
• Mr & Mrs. Smith

Top 10 OTAs in Spain

• Keytel 
• Mr & Mrs Smith

Top 10 OTAs in other countries 

Learn more about the top revenue-generating OTAs around the world in our Big Book of OTAs, including:

• Philippines

Highest niche revenue-generating OTAs

What are niche otas.

Niche OTAs are online travel agencies catering to specific audiences and travel needs. Many niches exist today, including OTAs for skiers, campers or glampers, adventure travelers, luxury travelers, and more.

Niche platforms can be the best online travel agencies as they are built to target more specific guest segments. Once you identify what guest segments make sense for your property, you can look into local partnerships to expand your offerings to provide a more tailored experience that complements your guests’ travel plans. For example, if you have a property close to the beach, you can find local surf instructors to partner with and offer lessons through your booking engine to attract surfers. When the guests check in, you can show them where the best surf is in town to improve the guest experience.

After a guest’s first trip is booked through a niche OTA, the guest will likely forego OTAs for their next trip in favor of booking directly on the hotel website. Niche OTAs are an essential part of any property’s online distribution strategy as they build loyalty and encourage direct bookings.

In the niche OTA market, many new channels have emerged over the past few years, especially surf & sport OTAs and luxury OTAs.

Highlighted niche OTAs surf & sports 

The global surfing tourism market is predicted to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6%, from 9.5 billion USD in 2022 to 17.1 billion USD by 2032. Travelers are increasingly looking for unique experiences, many tailored to specific activities like surfing, and seek out properties that cater to their needs. Today, the top revenue-generating Surf & Sport OTAs include:

Thermal offers a handpicked collection of the best surf trips in the world, with a focus on amazing guides who create one-of-a-kind, authentic experiences.

Good Story has an inventory of surf hotels and internationally recognized surf schools and camps for both novice and experienced surfers. 

Surf Holidays provides unique places to stay with quality local surf instruction to deliver the surf holiday of a lifetime on some of the best breaks in the world. 

Luex Surf & Snow Travel connects travelers with operators/ suppliers of once-in-a-lifetime sports travel experiences and products.

KiteSurfHolidays.com specializes in kitesurfing holidays, including accommodations and kitesurfing schools.

Highlighted niche OTAs luxury

In May 2023, Deloitte reported that the luxury travel industry had rebounded to pre-pandemic levels and is currently thriving, with a global market value of 1.2 trillion USD. Bookings at five-star hotels rose 19% over the first three quarters of 2021, and luxury travelers are more keen than ever to experience “Instagram-worthy” experiences in unique and remote locations. 

The following OTAs cater to travelers looking for luxury accommodations:

Mr & Mrs Smith includes a collection of carefully curated hotels that are first anonymously evaluated and visited by staff. This exclusive OTA works on an invitation-only basis. 

Prestigia is made up of hand-selected quality and unique hotels from all over the world. This OTA offers the best price guarantees, promotions, and exclusive offers. 

icastelli.net luxurious, historical, and unique high-level hotels are the property types found on this OTA. Collections include exclusive boutique hotels, golf hotels, spa hotels, and more.

i-escape provides unforgettable travel experiences, including eco-retreats, safari lodges, and boutique hotels. Also included is an award-winning booking system with a direct dialogue between guests and property and free advice from travel consultants. 

Tablet Hotels the official hotel selection of the MICHELIN Guide. This OTA showcases hotels that provide meaningful experiences to guests, regardless of budget. 

Spotlight – LGBTQIA+ OTAS

The global LGBTQIA+ travel market is valued at over $568.5 billion USD annually . While many countries have become increasingly welcoming to the queer community, discrimination is still prevalent today. A Booking.com study revealed that 58% of LGBTQ+ travelers face discrimination while traveling, and 41% canceled a trip within the past year after seeing their destination wasn’t LGBTQ+ friendly. 

 OTAs like ebab have emerged to offer safe and friendly accommodations to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Top OTAs by property type

Our data shows that while the top global OTAs dominate across almost all property types, some OTAs offer more opportunities for specific property types.

Channels such as Hostelworld have traditionally been popular for searching for hostels, while channels such as Vrbo and Airbnb have catered to vacation rentals. However, we’ve seen that our hotel customers are increasingly adopting Airbnb as part of their channel mix. Airbnb welcomes hotels that have a unique, independent environment and style.

Download our Big Book of OTAs to see the list of the five most popular channel connections by property type, including:

• Most popular channel connections for Hotels & Boutiques
• Most popular channel connections for Hostels
• Most popular channel connections for Vacation Rentals
• Most popular channel connections for Bed & Breakfasts

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Top Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) in the UK

A lot has changed in the online travel industry in the UK – and this continues to evolve. From OTAs that were born in the early days of the dot com boom to some newer arrivals. The theme that emerges, however, is consolidation and aggregation. Companies have folded but they have usually been acquired by a competitor.

The latest in this storyline is Superbreak and Laterooms.com. They went into administration in late summer 2019. Laterooms has since been partly acquired by Secret Escapes (intellectual property) and partly by Snaptrip . Founded in April 2014, Snaptrip is a marketplace for last-minute cottage holiday deals in the UK.

Here are some of the established OTAs in the UK.

Lastminute.com

Lastminute.com was founded in 1998 and was part of the UK internet boom of the late 1990s. Operates a portfolio of travel brands V olagratis ,  Rumbo ,  weg.de ,  Bravofly ,  Jetcost  and  Hotelscan .

Alpha Rooms

Alpharooms offers online bookings for hotels and flights along with holiday extras including airport transfers, car hire and travel insurance. The company was set up over 15 years ago (early 2000) In October 2016, Alpharooms was acquired by Truly Holdings Ltd, the parent company of Truly Travel Ltd, which operates the  Teletext Holidays  brand. 

Netflights.com was part of the Gold Medal Travel Group and offers online bookings for flights, hotels, holidays and car hire. Established in 1992 as the Airline Network, it was acquired by  Dnata , part of the Emirates Group in 2014.

Skoosh is an OTA that has continually challenged the monopoly of the large OTAs on price-fixing, rate parity and related clauses.

Love Holidays

Loveholidays is a popular OTA and also featured in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100. The parent company is Want2bthere Limited and they operate from London and Lancing.

Travel Republic

Travel Republic started in 2003 and is now owned by Dnata , (since 2011) which is a part of the Emirates Group. Offers beach breaks, city getaways and family holidays and the possibility to book with Holiday Deposit schemes and flexible payment options.

Travelbag was founded in 1979 and Stella Travel Services and they have a presence on the high street in the UK and online. They specialise in creating tailor-made holidays to long haul holiday destinations from the UK.

STA Travel also started in 1979 and is owned by the Swiss Diethelm Keller Group, with headquarters in Zurich and London. Its niche is in catering for students and younger travellers. Has both an online model and over 200 high street travel shops worldwide.

Hotel Direct

Hotel Direct was one of the internet pioneers in the UK and started operations in 1997. They offer a selective approach to hotels they feature in a city. The company also offers rail breaks and theatre breaks.

Travel Up started in 2004 and offers flights, hotels, car rental, travel insurance, packages and last-minute deals. Subsidiaries include Bookable Holidays and Flying Eagles (brand Travelgenie) which were acquired in 2014. The Group also includes Bravo Travel, offering holidays to Latin America and Magic Holidays that do bespoke holidays to Florida and other destinations in the US.

On The Beach

On the Beach is an OTA based in Manchester that specialises in short and medium-haul ‘Flight + Hotel’ beach holidays to Europe.

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Travel agencies in the United Kingdom - statistics & Facts

Retail travel agencies in the united kingdom, online travel agencies (otas) in the united kingdom, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Annual output of travel agencies and tour operators in the UK 2010-2022

Number of businesses in the travel agency industry in the UK 2013-2023

Number of businesses in the travel agency industry in the UK 2023, by employment size

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Tour Operators & Travel Agencies

Leading travel agents ranked by number of outlets in the UK 2024

Number of retail travel agents in the UK 2019-2023

TUI UK Limited revenue 2015-2022

Related topics

• Travel agency industry
• Package holidays in the United Kingdom (UK)

Travel and tourism in the UK

• Travel and tourism in the United Kingdom (UK)
• Vacation travel behavior in the United Kingdom (UK)
• Tourism in London
• Online travel market
• Digitalization of the travel industry
• Mobile travel trends
• Impact of technology on travel and tourism

Recommended statistics

• Premium Statistic Annual output of travel agencies and tour operators in the UK 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Monthly output growth of travel agencies and tour operators in the UK 2019-2023
• Premium Statistic Market size of the travel agency industry in the UK 2013-2023
• Premium Statistic Revenue of travel agencies in the UK 2008-2021
• Premium Statistic Gross value added (GVA): travel agencies in the UK 2008-2021
• Premium Statistic Travel agency, tour operator, and reservation services employment in the UK 2015-2021
• Basic Statistic Number of businesses in the travel agency industry in the UK 2023, by employment size
• Premium Statistic Number of businesses in the travel agency industry in the UK 2013-2023

Annual output of travel agencies, tour operators, and other reservation services in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2010 to 2022 (in million GBP)

Monthly output growth of travel agencies and tour operators in the UK 2019-2023

Monthly output growth of travel agencies, tour operators, and other reservation services in the United Kingdom (UK) from January 2019 to March 2023

Market size of the travel agency industry in the UK 2013-2023

Market size of the travel agency industry in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2013 to 2022, with a forecast for 2023 (in million GBP)

Revenue of travel agencies in the UK 2008-2021

Annual revenue of travel agency enterprises in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2008 to 2021 (in million GBP)

Gross value added (GVA): travel agencies in the UK 2008-2021

Gross value added (GVA) of travel agencies in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2008 to 2021 (in million GBP)

Travel agency, tour operator, and reservation services employment in the UK 2015-2021

Employment in travel agency, tour operator, and other reservation services and activities in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2021 (in 1000s)

Number of VAT/PAYE based enterprises in the travel agency, tour operator, and other reservation services and related activities industry in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2023, by employment size band

Number of businesses in the travel agency industry in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2013 to 2022, with a forecast for 2023

Travel agents

• Premium Statistic Number of retail travel agents in the UK 2019-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of retail travel agents in the UK 2023, by retailer
• Premium Statistic Leading travel agents ranked by number of outlets in the UK 2024
• Basic Statistic Most popular amusement, cruise, and travel brands in the UK Q4 2023
• Premium Statistic TUI UK Limited revenue 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic TUI UK Limited net income 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of TUI AG employees worldwide 2011-2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Turnover of Hays Travel Limited in the UK 2008-2023
• Premium Statistic Profit/loss after tax of Hays Travel Limited in the UK 2008-2023
• Premium Statistic Key financial figures for Flight Centre (UK) Limited 2020-2022

Number of travel shops operated by retail travel agents in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2019 to 2023

Number of retail travel agents in the UK 2023, by retailer

Number of retail travel agent stores in the United Kingdom (UK) as of June 2023, by retailer type

Leading travel agencies in the United Kingdom (UK) as of February 2024, by number of travel shops

Most popular amusement, cruise, and travel brands in the UK Q4 2023

Most popular amusement, cruise, and travel brands in the United Kingdom as of 4th quarter of 2023

Annual revenue of TUI UK Limited in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2022 (in million GBP)

TUI UK Limited net income 2015-2022

Net income of TUI UK Limited in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2022 (in million GBP)

Number of TUI AG employees worldwide 2011-2023, by region

Number of TUI AG employees worldwide from 2011 to 2023, by region

Turnover of Hays Travel Limited in the UK 2008-2023

Turnover of Hays Travel Limited in the United Kingdom from 2008 to 2023 (in million GBP)

Profit/loss after tax of Hays Travel Limited in the UK 2008-2023

Profit/loss after tax of Hays Travel Limited in the United Kingdom from 2008 to 2023 (in million GBP)

Key financial figures for Flight Centre (UK) Limited 2020-2022

Key financial figures for Flight Centre (UK) Limited from 2020 to 2022 (in 1,000 GBP)

Online travel agencies

• Basic Statistic Market cap of leading online travel companies worldwide 2023
• Premium Statistic Leading online travel companies worldwide 2022-2023, by EV/EBITDA
• Premium Statistic Key information on the online travel agency industry in the UK January 2023
• Premium Statistic Revenue of On the Beach Group plc in the UK 2012-2022, by segment
• Premium Statistic Net income of On the Beach in the UK 2014-2022
• Premium Statistic Revenue of Tripadvisor worldwide 2012-2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Lastminute.com Group revenue worldwide 2019-2022, by country
• Premium Statistic Skyscanner annual revenue 2011-2021
• Premium Statistic Revenue of Skyscanner 2014-2021, by business segment
• Premium Statistic Key financial figures for Thomas Cook Tourism (UK) 2019-2022

Market cap of leading online travel companies worldwide 2023

Market cap of leading online travel companies worldwide as of September 2023 (in million U.S. dollars)

Leading online travel companies worldwide 2022-2023, by EV/EBITDA

Enterprise-value-to-EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) of selected leading online travel companies worldwide in 2022, with a forecast for 2023

Key information on the online travel agency industry in the UK January 2023

Key data on the online travel agency industry in the United Kingdom (UK) as of January 2023

Revenue of On the Beach Group plc in the UK 2012-2022, by segment

Revenue of On the Beach Group plc in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2014 to 2022, by business segment (in million GBP)

Net income of On the Beach in the UK 2014-2022

Net income of On the Beach Group plc in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2014 to 2022 (in million GBP)

Revenue of Tripadvisor worldwide 2012-2023, by region

Revenue of Tripadvisor, Inc. worldwide from 2012 to 2023, by region (in million U.S. dollars)

Lastminute.com Group revenue worldwide 2019-2022, by country

Revenue of Lastminute.com Group (lm Group) worldwide from 2019 to 2022, by country (in million euros)

Skyscanner annual revenue 2011-2021

Annual revenue of Skyscanner Limited from 2011 to 2021 (in 1,000 GBP)

Revenue of Skyscanner 2014-2021, by business segment

Revenue of Skyscanner Limited from 2014 to 2021, by business segment (in 1,000 GBP)

Key financial figures for Thomas Cook Tourism (UK) 2019-2022

Key financial figures for Thomas Cook Tourism (UK) Company Limited from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000 GBP)

Booking behavior

• Premium Statistic Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday in the UK October 2022
• Premium Statistic Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday in the UK October 2022, by age
• Premium Statistic Leading holiday travel provider websites in the UK Q4 2023, by share of voice
• Premium Statistic Hotel / private accommodation online bookings by brand in the UK 2023
• Premium Statistic Package holiday bookings by brand in the UK 2023

Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday in the UK October 2022

Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday among individuals in the United Kingdom (UK) as of October 2022

Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday in the UK October 2022, by age

Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday among individuals in the United Kingdom (UK) as of October 2022, by age group

Leading holiday travel provider websites in the UK Q4 2023, by share of voice

Leading websites for holiday searches in the United Kingdom in 4th quarter of 2023, by share of voice

Hotel / private accommodation online bookings by brand in the UK 2023

Hotel / private accommodation online bookings by brand in the UK as of December 2023

Package holiday bookings by brand in the UK 2023

Package holiday bookings by brand in the UK as of December 2023

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Top 5 Online Travel Agencies for Hotels in the UK

In recent years, online travel agents (OTAs) have become an increasingly popular way for travellers to book their accommodation.  For hoteliers in the United Kingdom, partnering with an OTA can be a great way to reach a wider audience of potential guests.

What are OTAs?

An OTA is an online travel agency. OTAs are websites that allow customers to book hotels, flights, and other travel services. OTAs are a convenient way to compare prices and find the best deals on travel services for travellers. Simply select your dates, your travel destination and it will serve you with a list of different packages that you can book within the one domain.

OTAs have made booking travel extremely easy for the common traveller, and they’ve cut out the need for an in-person travel agent which can often result in bookings becoming more expensive.

Why are OTAs important for hoteliers?

There are many advantages that come with using your property management system to list on an online travel agency. With the right strategy, hoteliers can use an OTA to reach a larger audience, save on marketing and advertising expenses, get their business name out there, and they can utilise their promotional tools and resources. In other words, an OTA can be a powerful marketing tool for your hotel.

One of the main reasons why OTAs are essential for hoteliers is that they can help to fill rooms during low occupancy periods. This is especially beneficial for smaller hotels that may not have the same marketing reach as larger chains with bigger budgets. By listing rooms on an OTA, hoteliers can extend their reach to a larger audience, offer OTA specific deals and fill rooms that would otherwise go empty. This is especially helpful for hoteliers in the United Kingdom, where occupancy rates can fluctuate throughout the year.

Additionally, OTAs typically offer commission-based pricing, so hoteliers only pay for the rooms that are actually booked. This makes OTAs a cost-effective way to increase bookings during slow periods.

One of the benefits of using OTAs is that they can help drive traffic to your hotel website. Travellers who are browsing an online travel agency may become curious about your hotel and decide to visit your website to learn more about the services you offer. This is called the “billboard effect”. By driving traffic back to your hotel page, this can also help you secure more direct bookings and therefore, you won’t have to pay the OTAs commission fee.

Finally, OTAs can help you reach new markets. This is especially important if you are a hotelier in the United Kingdom who wants to attract international travellers that may be unfamiliar with your hotel otherwise.

Cons of using OTAs

There are a few drawbacks to using OTAs. Firstly, you will have to pay a commission fee to the OTA for each booking which can often be 15% or more. Secondly, you may have less control over your property’s listing on the OTA website . This can include photos, descriptions, and pricing. Finally, some travellers may be concerned about providing their credit card information to an OTA.

However, these drawbacks are outweighed by the benefits of using OTAs , which include increased bookings and revenue, convenience for travellers, and access to new markets. Therefore, we believe that hoteliers in the United Kingdom should definitely be using OTAs as part of their marketing strategy.

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Preno integrates with 50+ of the most popular OTAs, making it easy to manage pricing and reservations from within one platform. By using Preno to manage your listings, you can save time on admin and reach more customers by signing up for more OTAs.

Booking.com

The top of our online travel agency list is Booking.com. Booking.com was founded in 1996 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It is currently the world’s largest online travel company, with a portfolio that includes more than 28 million listings in over 200 countries and territories. Booking.com is not only a hub for accomodation, but they offer flights and car rentals too which can be booked together. With Booking.com hotels can manage their listings, rates, and availability in one place, as well as track guest reviews and messages.

Hotels are charged a commission rate of 15-20% of the total booking value for each reservation made through Booking.com. This is a standard commission rate for online travel agencies. However, hotels can negotiate this rate with Booking.com depending on their property type, location, and other factors.

Expedia was founded in 1996 as a division of Microsoft. It was spun off into a public company in 1999 and quickly became one of the largest online travel companies in the world. Expedia is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington and operates more than 75 localised websites for travellers around the globe.

Expedia is another well-known online travel agency that caters to travellers on a budget. Expedia Rewards members may take advantage of special offers like free hotel stays and airfare discounts. They also provide package deals that allow you to book a complete holiday, including transportation, flights, and accommodation, at a low price.

Expedia commission rates vary depending on the type of property and its location, but typically range from 12-20%.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is the world’s largest travel site, with more than 435 million reviews and opinions of hotels, restaurants, attractions, and vacation rentals. It operates in 49 markets worldwide and reaches 340 million unique monthly visitors. For hoteliers, TripAdvisor offers a variety of listing options, as well as the ability to manage rates, availability, and reservations. Hoteliers are only charged when a traveller books their stay through TripAdvisor and the commission rate is typically around 15%, but can vary depending on the property type and location.

Agoda was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Singapore. It is a subsidiary of Booking Holdings, the world’s largest online travel company. Agoda is recognised for its outstanding customer care and rapid response times. They provide phone, email, and live chat support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can get assistance whenever you need it.

Agoda offers a variety of properties , from small independent hotels to large international chains. The commission rate is typically around 15%.

Formerly Ctrip.com, Trip.com is based in Shanghai, China and is currently the largest OTA in the country. With a large customer base in Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen, and over 400 million members, Trip.com makes it easy to reach one of the fastest-growing populations in the world. English speaking 24/7 customer support is offered via email, phone or directly through their app to those who need it. This makes listing your property on this international OTA a breeze. Trip.com also has a unique partnership with Booking.com, which grants it access to its massive global portfolio.

Which OTA is the best for your hotel will depend on your specific needs and goals. However, all of the OTAs listed above are worth considering. If you are a hotelier in the United Kingdom, then we recommend choosing a PMS system that allows you to manage multiple OTA listings in one platform, so you can list on more and benefit from their viewership.

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What are the Top 10 Travel Agents in the UK for 2021

• February 25, 2021

Top10TravelAgents.com – What are the best 10 Travel Agents in the UK for 2021?

Whether you are planning a staycation, holiday, getaway, or vacation in the UK, it is important to find the best UK travel agent. While technology has made it easy to book flights and holiday homes online, you still need a travel agent to make your vacation or holiday booking process and management as seamless as possible. The top 10 travel companies uk will handle all your travel needs, customize your holiday package, and guarantee you peace of mind, as most of them are ATOL protected. If you’re unsure which travel agent to use, this article will list the top 10 UK travel agents.

British Airways

British Airways is the UK’s largest holiday company. The company enjoys a global airline network that offers cheap flights and irresistible deals to unforgettable destinations. But why book your holiday with British Airways Holidays?

Besides the global coverage, the company is a member of ABTA and IATA . In addition, British Airways is ATOL protected, which provides cover for all travelers in case the worst should happen. The company also offers some of the best holiday packages, including city breaks and all-inclusive holidays. Booking is also easy through their website or app, and they offer excellent 24hr support.

Expedia is a leading travel agent globally, and helps travelers with everything from planning, to booking flights and accommodation, as well as assisting in renting cars, and much more. The website supports over 40 languages, which attracts bookings from right across the world. The company covers every aspect of traveling and holidaying, making Expedia a one-stop-shop for travelers to get the best holiday deals.

As you would expect with best travel agents uk, they are a member of IATA, and enjoy ATOL protection. In addition, customers say that they offer some of the best holiday packages on the internet. We especially liked their booking app, as well as their reward program, which was set up to thank their loyal clients, and customers can save even more money with this program, so it is certainly worth checking out.

EasyJet Holidays

Easyjet Holidays is a subsidiary of EasyJet Plc, a British Low-cost Airline operating domestic and international flights to over 75 destinations and 10,000 hotels throughout the world. Their global coverage and access to many accommodation facilities make them a leading UK travel agent.

When you book your vacation with EasyJet Holidays, you will have peace of mind knowing they are a member of ABTA and they enjoy ATOL protection. Easyjet holidays offer various cheap holiday packages, including city breaks, all-inclusive holidays, villa holidays, summer holidays, adult holidays, and much more. Most importantly, you can browse and book online using their app.

Loveholidays

Love Holidays is a fast-growing Uk travel agent that was launched in 2012. The agent offers great all-inclusive holiday packages from short to long-haul destinations. Whether you need an all-inclusive retreat, or an exotic beach holiday, this company will make it happen – without breaking the bank.

Besides being famous for their affordable packages, Love Holidays is a member of IATA and enjoys ATOL protection. Their website is setup in such a way that you can search based on your budget, temperature, and star rating. This ensures you get the perfect package based on your budget and needs. They also have a mobile application where you can book and manage your bookings.

On The Beach Holidays

On the Beach Holidays is an online travel agent uk specializing in short and medium-haul combinations of ‘Flight plus Hotel’ holiday deals to Europe. The company expanded internationally in 201, and shows no sign of stopping. We feel it is a top online travel agent, since it caters for both travelers and various 3rd party suppliers of flights, transfers, and accommodation.

The company enjoys ABTA and ATOL protection, which allows you to protect your cheap holiday packages. They are the best if you are booking holiday villas and city breaks, as well as for affordable family holidays.

TUI UK Group is a leading global tourism group with over 1600 agencies, 5 airlines, 150 aircraft, and over 400 hotels worldwide. The company caters to all tourism needs in one location, enabling them to cater to over 27 million customers in their 180 regions per year. They have a very accessible and user friendly app, where you can browse and plan your next holiday with ease. With their broad coverage, and being ABTA, and ATOL protected, you are assured of a fantastic experience with this travel company.

Southall Travel

Southall Travel Group is among the largest travel agents in the UK. The agent operates both physical and online bookings. They offer 24/7 support, and you are guaranteed to get the best deals on flights, accommodations, last-minute holidays, city breaks, and much more. In addition, the company enjoys ATOL protection and is a member of ABTA. Whether you want a luxury holiday, safari holidays, family holidays, or cheap holidays, they never disappoint and will match your needs to a package you can afford.

First Choice Holidays

The company is a subsidiary, and is a UK-based online travel agency. The agents’ holiday packages are about giving the best value. They have holiday packages to suit every budget and need. Whether you’re looking for city getaways, adult holidays, family vacations, or group retreats, you are guaranteed to find a holiday package that meets your specific needs. Besides allowing package customization, they also boast ATOL protection and membership to ABTA.

Jet2Holidays

As of 2018, Jet2Holidays was the second-largest tour operator in the UK. This UK travel agent overs value for money holiday deals to destinations across Europe, and beyond using a network of 9 UK airports. They have a huge selection of accommodation (from 2 star to 5 star), with various holiday packages catering for family holidays, luxury retreats, adult holidays, and all-inclusive holiday deals. They offer 24/7 support, and enjoy ATOL protection besides offering secure and globally recognized payment systems.

Sykes Cottages

Sykes Cottages is a leading independent holiday cottage rental company with over 25 years of experience. They have over 16,000-holiday homes across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Whether you need small luxury cottage for a couple, or accommodation for 20+ people, they have it all! At Sykes Cottages, there is something for everyone. The company also offers 24/7 support, and most of their cottages are pet-friendly, which is a plus for pet lovers. Using their mobile app or website, you can browse and book your ideal holiday cottage and make your holiday experience one to remember!

Top10TravelAgents.com – These where are the top 10 Travel Agents in the UK for 2021.

Unum Magnum Feriatum Ltd.

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The experts: travel agents on 20 ways to book a sustainable and sensational summer holiday

Keen to get away? Here is how to find a great deal, pick the perfect destination and support the local community

A holiday should be relaxing, but booking one can be a fraught experience, with days lost to endless scrolling, comparing reviews and prices. How can you be sure you are getting a good deal? Travel agents share their tips for the most affordable, sustainable and memorable trips.

1. Book like an agent

“Everybody views themselves as a travel agent and they can be up to a point,” says Paul Sharp from Newcastle upon Tyne, who operates as part of the Travel Counsellors network and has 30 years’ experience in the industry. He says the rise of budget airlines and online booking have led to people feeling confident about organising trips themselves. What is the one thing we should know when doing so? “It is a false economy to book things separately because you have no protection,” Sharp says. He gives the example of someone planning a trip to South Africa to watch rugby, who booked flights with the airline and hotels directly and rugby tickets elsewhere. The game was cancelled but the flights and hotel were non-refundable. If they had been booked together, the trip would have been covered under package travel regulations. “Book with a company you trust and know – there are a lot of sites that crop up and you don’t really know their provenance,” he says.

2. Be an early bird

“Planning in advance is always going to be better value,” says Helen Youngman , an independent travel agent and partner at 360 Private Travel , based near Norwich. “Late deals do exist, but a lot of hotels use ‘dynamic pricing’, which means prices increase as availability goes down. Flights are only going to increase in price the closer you get to the departure date because the fuller the flight gets, the more expensive it will be.” Sharp adds: “Don’t hang on for a last-minute deal because you could end up disappointed. Scheduled flights tend to be available about 11 months in advance, so that is the best time to book. Also, at that stage, a lot of hotels and accommodation providers will have early-bird specials.”

3. If you do book late, be flexible

Jessica Bollinger, who works in the Bristol branch of Danish travel agent Kilroy , which specialises in youth and adventure holidays, agrees that late deals are now something of a myth. “They are not unheard of, but with a last-minute deal there are certain things you’re not going to get. So you have to be really open-minded as to where you’re going to go,” she says.

4. Avoid peak season

The cheapest time to travel is always outside the school holidays, says Youngman, with Christmas and new year the most expensive times. Can you get a good deal if you fly on Christmas or New Year’s Day itself? Sometimes, she says, “but a lot of people are catching on to that trick”. If you have to go in the school holidays, be open to going somewhere off the beaten track. “Being clever about destinations is a good plan,” says Youngman. “In Europe, look farther east at places such as Montenegro, Albania and Georgia. And Morocco is a good summer destination for families.”

5. Midweek can be more affordable

“Midweek can be cheaper, it just depends on availability,” says Youngman. “A Thursday to Monday trip is going to be slightly more expensive than Monday to Friday, but all travel fares are based on availability, so the further in advance you can book, the better.”

6. Take out travel insurance when you book

A lot of people sort out their insurance at the airport, says Sharp, but it is best to do it as soon as you have booked your trip. He says: “Travel insurance doesn’t just cover you if you lose a bag or are poorly while you are away. It also covers you should you need to cancel for an insurable reason before you travel.” This includes illness or a bereavement.

7. On solo trips, consider a group tour

If you are travelling alone, “pretty much anywhere is possible”, says Youngman. “Embarking on your first solo trip can be daunting, which is why small group tours are an amazing way to travel with like-minded people. Some companies I work with are doing specialist female-only tours with visits to female entrepreneurs, co-operatives, makers and bakers. Small group tours are great because they handle all the logistics, include really immersive experiences and are safe. They pick you up from the airport, and from that point onwards, you’re travelling with other people and you’ve got an expert guide.”

8. Have a daily budget

“We advise setting a daily limit for yourself while travelling and then multiplying that number by the days you are away to get the amount to save for your spending money,” says Bollinger. “When you work it out like this, it makes a lot more sense in people’s minds, especially young people who don’t have much budgeting experience. It also keeps you accountable to yourself, so you don’t blow everything right at the beginning and then have nothing left for the end.” To stick to a tight budget, she says: “Cook food as you go along and use public transport instead of tourist buses – this will really help you save money.”

9. Consider all-inclusive options

“If you are going to spend a lot of time eating and drinking in the hotel, I recommend upgrading to an all-inclusive option if possible,” says Youngman, “especially if you’d like a cocktail or two and you’re grazing throughout the day. Otherwise it can all add up and when you check out it costs a fortune.” With active holidays such as skiing or safaris, she adds: “If you have the option to choose an all-inclusive package that includes the activities, food and drink, that is usually a more cost-effective way of travelling. Because sometimes they will really sting you on the extras and it will be more expensive.”

10. Work your way around the world

“A working holiday is a great way to fund your trip,” says Bollinger, who helps people book travel to Australia, New Zealand and Canada by organising working holidays so they can extend their stay. “A lot of jobs will be hospitality-related, but if you go to a more rural spot you can do farm work, and if you have qualifications already, sometimes those can be used. Working holidays in Canada are often at ski resorts near Vancouver, so you get the added benefit of being in a beautiful place to take advantage of the winter sports.”

11. Travel as sustainably as possible

“You can get to most places in Europe by train , so if you are open to slowing down and having a more relaxed itinerary, not only are you travelling more sustainably, but you have more time to absorb the culture surrounding you,” says Youngman. “Be good to the environment you are travelling to see.” She stresses the importance of limiting flights as much as possible, especially internally, and avoiding indirect long-haul options. “We highly recommend ‘open-jaw flights’, which means you fly into one destination and out of another, to limit the number of flights,” says Bollinger. “We also promote travelling for longer in one destination as opposed to trying to go to many in a short time, and travelling overland when possible, instead of taking multiple flights.”

12. Offset carbon emissions with a reputable company

When considering carbon from flights, says Thomas Power of Pura Aventura , a B Corp sustainable travel company in Brighton: “Don’t believe the airline schemes, or anyone else who promises you absolution for a few quid. While 85% of offset schemes may be worthless, there are high-quality carbon credits starting at about £20 a tonne.” These can be bought to compensate for CO 2 emissions. Companies such as “ C Level ​ ​help you at least take positive action to balance your impact”, says Power.

13. Think of responsible travel as a ‘fair exchange’

When travelling, says Power, consider: “What are we giving and what are we receiving? Is it a fair exchange? Is somebody getting something in return for what I am receiving in this transaction?” This applies to everything from “taking a cruise to Venice and not giving anything to the city, to going camping in Sussex and getting a supermarket delivery to your tent instead of going to the village shop or buying eggs from the house down the road”. This concept of “fair exchange” can be beneficial for everyone, he says, by giving you access to unique experiences. “In terms of the economy, the less money that leaves the village, town or city, the better,” he says.

14. Embrace the great outdoors

If you camp out “you are closer to nature than any other accommodation option”, says Brodie Farrow, of the online camping and touring travel agent Pitchup . There are many benefits to this, she says: “It is really good for mental health. It is also a much more sustainable option: the carbon footprints of outdoor holidays tend to be much lower than hotel stays, as people travel by car rather than flying and it promotes local produce and low-impact activities such as hiking in the surrounding area. The accommodation or pitches are much less carbon intensive than hotels, too. And you have a positive impact on the community that you are visiting: camping attracts a higher number of customers at a lower cost than hotels do, which can help to underpin the viability of local facilities such as the shop, the bar and takeaway, and that benefits the wider community.”

15. If you are camping-phobic, glamp

“There really is something for everyone,” says Farrow. “You can get glamping accommodation with four-poster beds if you prefer camping in luxury, or you can go really wild and remote, with no facilities, out on your own and back to nature. I think you would be hard-pressed to say that there is nothing that appeals.” Although glamping has become a fairly pricey option, she says: “Some types are much cheaper than others. You can get some ‘pod-only’ camping accommodation, where you bring your own bedding, starting from £15 a night.”

16. If the weather is terrible …

… And you are under canvas, “try to keep your bedroom a wet-gear-free zone”, says Farrow. “Store and dry wet stuff in your porch area rather than in your bedroom compartment. Protect your equipment by putting it in plastic bags or dry bags. Don’t let anything touch your tent walls or you will have soggy socks.” For activities, she suggests, “swimming in the sea, because you are wet already, or going to the pub”. If you are disappointed by the weather on a non-camping holiday, “as annoying as it is, try to embrace it”, says Sharp. Many people come back from their holidays exhausted because they try to see and do everything when they’re away. Instead, he says: “Have a lie-in, ask local people which is the best restaurant for a long, lazy lunch and, most of all, relax and recharge your batteries – it’s a holiday after all.”

17. For best value destinations, try …

“Go for Belgrade over Berlin,” says Youngman. “It has an underground culture scene very similar to Berlin 20 years ago.” For backpackers, Bollinger suggests: “Some places in Central America can be really affordable. Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala are good options for someone wanting to think outside the box.” Sharp says there are more affordable options in “Cyprus, Bulgaria, Turkey and Egypt, compared with Spain and the Balearics, which are becoming increasingly expensive due to cost of living increases”. If you are looking for a staycation, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Cornwall are some of the most popular UK locations on Pitchup, says Farrow, which can inflate the price. Locations such as Pembrokeshire and the Isle of Wight are cheaper.

18. For a trip of a lifetime that doesn’t cost the earth …

“North Macedonia is just amazing,” says Youngman. “Ohrid has beautiful cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture , fantastic food and wine and you can visit the most biodiverse lake in Europe.” Farrow says: “I camped at the foot of Ben Nevis last year before hiking up it. The weather was terrible but it was worth it for the unreal views.” While Bollinger’s most memorable trip was “Interrailing in Europe and finding a way to do things on my own. It was before smartphones, so it was a very interesting experience and built up my confidence in travelling.”

19. If in doubt, follow local people

“Live like a local person by taking local buses and eating in local spots,” says Bollinger. “It is going to save you money, and will also let you experience life in a different way.” Power adds: “People want to go to Peru but they never come back talking about Machu Picchu, they come back talking about the people they met. Buy local and connections will happen for you. In the absence of interaction with your host community, the things you see are just wallpaper.”

20. And remember: you get what you pay for

“If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” says Sharp.

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