Some early thoughts on TripAdvisor?s new travel search engine

March 04, 2009 |

Despite its current shortcomings, TripAdvisor's new travel search engine will ultimately be successfull thanks to TripAdvisors huge reach and loyal user base. That is, if the company can convince people to think of them earlier in the travel booking process, notes Hudson Crossing's Tom Botts.

TripAdvisor's new meta search product is being served up right on the home page. And TripAdvisor is sporting a breezy new logo with a an airplane and a new tagline to boot: get the best flights. then go.

TripAdvisor is pushing the "fees estimator" as a key selling feature... This handy item allows users to calculate the full cost of a trip including baggage charges. Somewhat humorously, it also will estimate on board charges - even down to if you want a cocktail. But, the fee estimator only appears to work for domestic tickets in the US.

Another interesting feature is the ability to display seat maps by clicking on "available seats" which opens a new window for airlines which are available for sale via Expedia. (Sorry, AA) And, of course, seatguru (another TripAdvisor property) reviews are also included with a separate click.

Get the full story at Hudson Crossing

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