Startups

Travel startups Oyo, Gett, Bolin, Luxtripper, Kambr, Sweep, and Salestrip recently announced fundraisings, showing continued investor interest in the sector.

Today's low-interest rates make it a fine time to buy and rent out second homes in many markets. No wonder Vacasa has hired a new CFO and began acquiring properties again.

Travel startups collectively announced more than $100 million in funding at the turn-of-the-year and during the past week. Htrip, a Chinese hotel tech provider, led the pack.

Hipcamp says that demand for quality outdoor experiences has exceeded supply as a long-term trend, not just a pandemic bump. It also claims to create more supply by wooing landowners to create camping experiences. But skeptics will wonder if a valuation north of $300 million is justified for the company.

A new study highlights Barcelona's recent growth as a hub for travel startups. A rich tourism history, a sun-dappled location, and a favorable cost-of-living. The pitch is certainly attractive.

Airbus-backed Blade thinks Asia is where the action is, with plans to expand there after this latest blank-check deal. Keep an eye on similar so-called SPAC deals in travel in the new year.

This week, travel startups Sonder, ZeroAvia, and TravelNest announced more than $62 million collectively in investments, loans, and grants.

This week, travel startups Selina, Battleface, Tuyuan, and Roomy Hotels announced receiving more than $68 million in investment. Airbnb isn't the only startup having a good week.

Thursday was a historic day for Airbnb and the travel industry at large. Airbnb is a excellent business, but is it a $100 billion business?

Skift since its own launch was the first media outlet to ask hard questions of Airbnb, and it has been amazing to document that journey of the company from start till its IPO day and beyond. My thoughts in an audio essay.