In a significant development for the travel industry, LuxRally Travel, a Miami-based host agency, has bolstered its FastBook platform by integrating approximately 1.3 million hotels into its booking engine. This influx of hotel inventory is sourced from a diverse range of providers, such as HotelBeds, RateHawk, Restel, Expedia Partner Solutions, and Rakuten Travel Xchange. Previously limited to hotel listings within the Sabre GDS, LuxRally has now expanded its offerings, granting travel advisors access to a broader array of pricing options that can help them effectively position themselves against online travel agencies (OTAs) in terms of competitive pricing.
According to LuxRally’s CEO, David Eisen, the enhanced scope of FastBook isn’t just about scale—it’s about empowering travel advisors with options that were previously difficult to access. This newfound flexibility is particularly crucial in today’s fast-paced travel market, as advisors can now view and compare a plethora of hotel options directly from their mobile devices. This can significantly streamline the booking process, allowing for quicker responses to client inquiries. Moreover, the introduction of a user-friendly slider tool enables advisors to easily adjust their mark-up on net rates. Eisen emphasized that the total price, including hotel costs and commissions, must not exceed the best available rate, aligning the agency’s operations with customer satisfaction by keeping fees transparent and competitive.
FastBook has been designed specifically with travel advisors in mind. Unlike typical booking systems that prioritize reviews or showcase beautiful images, FastBook focuses solely on providing the best rates expediently. Eisen’s background in cybersecurity, combined with his experiences as a travel advisor, has heavily influenced the platform’s development. He has built FastBook from the ground up, addressing the common frustrations faced by advisors in the booking process. His vision ensures that functionality and efficiency are at the forefront, making it a top choice for agents looking to deliver quick and effective solutions to their clients.
Future Developments and Inclusivity in the Travel Sector
Looking ahead, LuxRally is not limiting its growth to just hotel bookings. Eisen has plans to broaden FastBook’s capabilities to include air travel, cruises, tours, transfers, and car rentals. This holistic approach positions FastBook as a comprehensive resource for travel agents, making it easier for them to manage all aspects of travel logistics within a single platform. Furthermore, while the agency has previously focused on onboarding new travel advisors since its inception in 2022, it anticipates launching a hosting program for experienced advisors in the near future, fostering growth and inclusivity in its community.
In summation, LuxRally Travel’s strategic expansion of its FastBook platform represents a significant evolution in the travel booking landscape. By focusing on improved accessibility, competitive pricing, and intuitive design, LuxRally is setting the stage for a new era of travel advisory services that prioritize efficiency and client satisfaction.
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