In an era where travelers are increasingly seeking personalized and competitive pricing options, LuxRally Travel is redefining the landscape with the recent expansion of its booking engine, FastBook. With the addition of approximately 1.3 million hotels sourced from reputable providers such as HotelBeds, RateHawk, Restel, Expedia Partner Solutions, and Rakuten Travel Xchange, FastBook is poised to offer travel advisors unparalleled access to a diverse range of hotels. Previously confined to listings from the Sabre Global Distribution System (GDS), the enhanced capabilities of FastBook not only empower travel advisors but also significantly elevate the customer experience.
The competitive nature of the travel industry necessitates that booking engines equip advisors with powerful tools to effectively compete against online travel agencies (OTAs). LuxRally’s CEO, David Eisen, emphasizes that the expanded inventory allows advisors to present more pricing options, thereby enhancing their ability to secure bookings. The inclusion of a simple slider tool for adjusting mark-up on net rates showcases an innovative approach: advisors are now able to dynamically adapt their pricing strategy in real-time without running afoul of the firm policy that prohibits charging additional fees beyond the best available rate. This feature not only empowers advisors but also maintains transparent pricing for clients.
Accessibility is crucial in today’s fast-paced travel industry, and Eisen has ensured that the FastBook system caters to the on-the-go needs of travel advisors. By allowing options to be accessed on mobile devices, advisors can efficiently manage their bookings and provide clients with timely quotes and information. Yet, it is essential to note that FastBook is designed with a specific target audience in mind. Eisen has pointed out that the system is not tailored for browsing reviews or enjoying visual aesthetics; rather, it focuses strictly on delivering the best rates as quickly as possible. This utilitarian approach will resonate well with advisors who prioritize efficiency and results.
Eisen’s aspirations for FastBook extend beyond the realm of hotel bookings. Plans are already underway to introduce additional services, including flights, cruises, tours, transfers, and car rentals. By offering a comprehensive array of travel solutions in one platform, LuxRally aims to streamline the advisor’s workflow and enhance their ability to deliver holistic travel experiences to their clients.
Additionally, while FastBook has been closed to seasoned travel advisors since its inception in 2022, plans to incorporate an experienced host agency program signal a promising growth trajectory for LuxRally. This opening will allow seasoned advisors to leverage FastBook’s resources, thereby enriching the overall advisor community under LuxRally’s umbrella.
The advancements made by LuxRally Travel with FastBook represent a significant shift in how travel advisors can approach their bookings. By broadening the range of available hotel options, enhancing usability, and committing to continued innovation, LuxRally is not only positioning itself as a formidable player in the travel industry but also enriching the capabilities of its advisor base. As the sector continues to evolve, LuxRally’s proactive strategies may very well serve as a blueprint for future advancements in travel technology.