Expedia Group has introduced Travel Shops, a new way for influencers and content creators to earn commissions by recommending hotels to travelers. This initiative comes at a time when social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are popular platforms for content creation and monetization. The program currently has 14 launch partners, with plans to open up to other influencers later this year to create content and encourage bookings at their favorite hotels.
One influencer, Oneika Raymond, has shared her bucket list of hotels on the platform, including properties such as Silversands Grenada, Hotel Chalet Al Foss, and Sultan Cave Suites. By clicking on these recommendations, users are directed to the Expedia booking path to secure their stay. This program offers content creators an alternative way to monetize their work, beyond traditional advertising royalties. Travel Shops are accessible on both the Expedia desktop website and mobile app, providing a direct way for travelers to book their accommodations.
In addition to Travel Shops, Expedia is focusing on implementing AI technology across its platforms to enhance the travel experience for users. One example is Romie, a generative AI travel agent, concierge, and personal assistant located within EG Labs. This AI feature can be invited into conversations on messaging platforms to help build itineraries, troubleshoot travel issues, and book vacations. Expedia also plans to launch a Personalized Itinerary Builder, which will provide tailored recommendations through generative AI, in the U.S. this summer.
Furthermore, Expedia has integrated AI into its Help Centers on the Expedia and Hotels.com websites in the U.S., enabling quicker problem resolution for travelers. Another upcoming feature, Destination Comparison, will use generative AI to evaluate the pros and cons of various travel destinations. This tool is expected to go live this summer on Expedia’s three core brands, including Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo. Additionally, Guest Review Summaries, a feature currently available, summarizes multiple hotel user reviews using AI to help travelers make informed decisions without having to read through all the reviews.
Expedia’s Travel Shops and AI initiatives aim to provide influencers with new monetization opportunities and enhance the overall travel experience for users. By offering content creators commissions for hotel recommendations and implementing AI features such as Romie and Destination Comparison, Expedia is working to stay competitive in the travel industry. These advancements demonstrate Expedia’s commitment to innovation and creating more personalized and efficient travel solutions for both content creators and travelers alike. As the platform continues to evolve and expand, it will be interesting to see how these new features are received and whether they will ultimately drive increased traction and bookings for Expedia.
