The annual CES extravaganza in Las Vegas has hit the headlines for reasons other than the usual dizzying array of gadgets and other digital toys. In the midst of all the gushing over self-drive cars and Internet Of Things-led services for the home and offices, is an arguably more…

This is a roundup for product news and announcements for travel devices in tourism and hospitality for January 2017. Wednesday 4 January 2017: ChatSim to open 24 airport retail stores The mobile chat service, which gives users unlimited access to WhatsApp, WeChat, Facebook Messenger et al), will launch outlets in Italian…

Global property developer Colliers International has produced a travel tech trends report which looks specifically at the Middle East region. While virtual reality travel and electronic baggage labels are generic and familiar, “spontaneous travel” is a fresh idea. The report suggests that apps which can service demand for “day…

Private accommodation will account for almost a fifth of global hospitality bookings within two years – and the online travel agency giants are tipped to benefit. In terms of figures, financial analyst Susquehanna International Group (SIG) says private (alternative) accommodation is expected to hit $106 billion in 2018, some 19%…

Ctrip has bought global ground transportation provider TangRen World, solidifying its position as a full-service agency for Chinese travellers abroad by offering bespoke in-destination products. TangRen World operates in 100 countries and has more than 3000 Chinese-speaking drivers on its books. It has a ride-hailing app and also has…

This is a roundup for product news and announcements for travel marketing in tourism and hospitality for January 2017. Tuesday 3 January 2017: Jambojet matches gifts Matchbyte has developed a web platform for the Kenyan low-cost carrier so that it can sell e-vouchers to passengers for their friends, family members and…