Airbnb certainly didn't acquire Trip4real for its user base, which is small, but the move highlights Airbnb's intent to enhance the experiences of guests by giving them opportunity to hook up with local guides especially as hosts get more corporate. In addition, Barcelona authorities have taken a tough stance against Airbnb and having local ties through acquisition could engender a degree of goodwill.
Too many travel startups fall into the replication trap of mimicking successful brands instead of forging their own way. In this first installment of Demystifying Travel Tech, Amadeus shines a light on the various pathways for startups to break in to the travel ecosystem.