When Google acquired ITA software we all thought it was going to be a big challenger to the OTA’s. Then Google launched Hotel finder, and we shuddered as to why the big giant is entering this space. And, what does this mean for hotel search?
Over the last two years we have seen the product improve and develop, but somehow, not how we were thinking it would unravel. A few days ago Google unveiled their new Google Maps product. It is still not open to the public and you have to request an invite. I got a response within a week and had a chance to play around with it.
The product has seen some big improvements and there is also a big user interface change. We now see a card style information box that appears with your search results.
More importantly, now when you look for directions to another city there is an option to look for flights.Continue Reading
