One of the most hotly-anticipated OTA launches of recent years has begun with Culture Trip’s unveiling of its new accommodation booking platform.
The fast-growing London-based media, entertainment and travel start-up announced its intention to become an OTA last year as it raised $80 million.
It brought in former Expedia, lastminute.com and dnata Travel director Andy Washington to build a new travel division and this week a soft launch saw it open for hotel bookings in 12 destinations.
Lee Hayhurst, editor of Travel Weekly sister title Travolution, spoke to Washington about his plans, the choice of technology partner, and why Culture Trip is not setting out to be “just another OTA”.