How Booking.com is Changing Travel

Booking.com has become a go-to platform for millions of travelers worldwide, and for good reason. Whether you’re planning a luxury getaway or a quick weekend escape, Booking.com makes the whole process smooth and budget-friendly. But what makes it such a game-changer in the travel industry? And how can you use it to get the best deals? Let’s dive in!

When was booking.com founded?

Booking.com was founded in 1996 in Amsterdam by Geert-Jan Bruinsma as a small Dutch startup aimed at making hotel bookings easier. Initially, it focused on connecting travelers with accommodations in Europe. Over the years, it grew rapidly, merging with other platforms and expanding globally, eventually becoming a part of Booking Holdings Inc. Today, it’s one of the world’s largest travel platforms, offering millions of options for travelers everywhere.

Geert-Jan Bruinsma, the founder of Booking.com, once said, “Constant improvement of the website is the focus of everyone in the company. Everything we do revolves around enhancing that, and in my view, it’s what makes us a successful business.” His dedication to iterative development and prioritizing user experience was instrumental in shaping Booking.com into a dominant force in the online travel industry​

https://www.travelnext.nl/de-succesvolle-weg-die-booking-com-heeft-uitgevonden/: How Booking.com Transforms Travel Experienceshttps://www.yourtechstory.com/2019/05/21/booking-com-company-changed-course-online-hotel-booking/

Why Booking.com is a Travel Game-Changer

1. Endless Choices for Every Budget

With over 28 million listings, Booking.com offers everything from five-star hotels to cozy countryside cabins . No matter your style or budget, you’re guaranteed to find something that fits your needs.

2. Real Reviews You Can Trust

Nobody likes surprises (especially bad ones) when traveling. Booking.com’s review system gives you honest feedback from real guests, helping you make the best choice based on actual experiences.

3. Deals Galore

Who doesn’t love saving money? Booking.com’s “Best Price Guarantee” ensures you get competitive rates. Plus, they frequently offer discounts and special deals to help you stretch your budget further.

4. Easy and Flexible Booking

Their user-friendly platform and app make it super simple to filter by price, location, and amenities. Need to make a last-minute change? Most bookings come with free cancellation, so you can stay flexible.

Tips to Save Big on Booking.com

Want to make your travel dollars go even further? Here’s how to maximize your savings:

1. Join the Genius Loyalty Program

Sign up for free and unlock exclusive discounts (starting at 10% off), free room upgrades, and even complimentary breakfasts. The more you book, the better the perks!

2. Snag Last-Minute Deals

Feeling spontaneous? Booking.com often offers huge discounts on last-minute stays. If your travel dates are flexible, this is a fantastic way to save.

3. Use Free Cancellation + Price Matching

Book accommodations with free cancellation and keep an eye on prices. If you find a better deal later, rebook and save! Also, take advantage of their price match guarantee—just show proof of a lower rate, and they’ll refund the difference.

4. Check Out “Secret Deals”

Sign in to your Booking.com account to unlock exclusive Secret Deals. These hidden gems offer big savings on select properties and destinations. You won’t see them unless you’re logged in!

Two of Booking.com’s biggest competitors in the online travel industry are Expedia and Airbnb:

Airbnb

Unlike traditional hotel booking platforms, Airbnb focuses on short-term rentals, connecting travelers with hosts offering unique stays, from apartments to entire homes. With over 7 million listings worldwide, Airbnb appeals to travelers seeking personalized experiences or non-hotel accommodations. The platform also integrates local experiences and activities, diversifying its travel offerings and attracting millions of users globally ​Similarweb​Marketing91.

Expedia Group

Expedia is a comprehensive travel platform offering services like flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. As one of Booking.com’s closest competitors, Expedia benefits from a strong global presence and a vast inventory of travel options. It operates several subsidiaries, including Hotels.com and Vrbo, which further expand its market reach. Expedia reported significant traffic, with over 64 million visits monthly, making it a formidable player in the online travel space ​Similarweb​Marketing91.

Why is Booking.Com Stock so High?

Booking Holdings Inc. (Booking.com’s parent company) has seen its stock soar due to robust financial performance. In Q3 2024, the company reported a 22% year-over-year increase in revenue, reaching $7.4 billion, with gross bookings surpassing $40 billion. Earnings per share (EPS) jumped by 27%, highlighting strong profitability. Booking benefits from surging global travel demand and its strategic focus on alternative accommodations and direct payments. These factors, along with consistent growth in free cash flow, have driven its stock price above $4,200, making it one of the most valuable in the online travel sector​

MarketBeat.

Final Thoughts

Booking.com has revolutionized how we travel, making it easier, more affordable, and more enjoyable. With a little know-how, you can use the platform to save big and travel smart. Whether you’re jetting off to a dream destination or just looking for a cozy weekend getaway, Booking.com has your back. Happy travels!