Trivago has announced an integration with blockchain-based travel booking platform Travala. This partnership is transforming how travelers explore and secure accommodations, making it possible to book hotels using over 100 cryptocurrencies, including popular options such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, and Travala’s native token, AVA. The collaboration bridges the gap between traditional travel booking and the growing world of cryptocurrency, offering a glimpse into how blockchain technology can redefine well-established industries.
The collaboration marks a significant milestone. Travala, which boasts an inventory of over 2.2 million properties spread across 230 countries, can now display its listings on the globally recognized Trivago platform. Millions of Trivago users will now have the freedom to not only compare and choose properties listed via Travala but also leverage cryptocurrencies as their payment method.
This announcement follows Travala’s earlier successful integrations with leading platforms like Skyscanner and KAYAK. These partnerships make Travala’s services accessible alongside well-known giants such as Expedia and Booking.com. For Travala, this latest collaboration is another important chapter in their mission to promote cryptocurrency adoption. As Travala CEO Juan Otero pointed out, “Our integration with Trivago is another key step in bringing crypto adoption to the masses. There are hundreds of billions of daily searches performed across travel metasearch engines, and adding Travala to Trivago isn’t just beneficial for us – it helps amplify and further legitimize the entire crypto ecosystem by expanding the prevalence of crypto transactions for real-world services.”
Travala’s Growth and Market Momentum
Travala’s recent financial performance highlights the increasing demand for its crypto-focused services. In December, the company reported an impressive year-over-year revenue growth, nearly doubling to reach $100 million. A corporate treasury strategy putting emphasis on Bitcoin and AVA has also showcased Travala’s commitment to bolstering the crypto economy. Notably, approximately 78% of Travala’s bookings in 2024 were paid for using cryptocurrency, underscoring the platform’s appeal among crypto enthusiasts.
These strides in revenue and adoption come amidst rumors of a potential shake-up. According to a report by CoinDesk, the travel company received an unsolicited takeover offer late last year, valuing the business at over $100 million. Following that approach, Travala reportedly began exploring other potential buyers, including well-known travel company Booking.com. However, these discussions didn’t yield any final agreements.
Driving Innovation with Blockchain
At its core, Travala is passionate about redefining the travel booking experience through blockchain integration. The platform aims to create a decentralized and transparent ecosystem for booking hotels, accommodations, and even flights, enabling smooth and secure transactions using a variety of cryptocurrencies. Initially built on the Neo blockchain upon its founding in 2017, the company transitioned to Binance’s BNB Chain in 2020. This move aimed to capitalize on the network’s superior scalability, reduced transaction costs, and growing adoption. The shift wasn’t just about technology – Binance, a giant in the cryptocurrency exchange space, acquired a stake in Travala the same year, further solidifying its status as a major crypto-driven force in travel.
The partnership with Trivago is just the latest in a string of innovations from Travala. Through this integration, Trivago users who select accommodations from Travala’s listings are redirected to complete their bookings on the Travala platform. They are incentivized to do so with rewards through Travala’s AVA Smart Program. These rewards include benefits like discounts, up to 10% back in Bitcoin, and other Web3 travel perks. This system not only adds value for travelers but also encourages the adoption of cryptocurrency payment methods for real-world use cases.
Travala’s commitment to expanding its crypto compatibility continues unabated. In September, the platform added support for Solana-based assets, including SOL, and introduced Solana-related travel rewards to its ecosystem. Additionally, its AVA token now operates across multiple blockchain ecosystems, namely BNB Chain, Ethereum, and Solana. In a more unconventional development, Travala recently integrated President Trump’s official memecoin, TRUMP, targeting a fresh wave of adopters and further diversifying its offerings.
A Bold Vision for the Future of Travel
The integration of Travala into Trivago encapsulates the convergence of two exciting worlds: traditional travel services and cryptocurrency. By embracing blockchain technology, Travala has carved out a unique niche that attracts not just crypto enthusiasts but anyone seeking more innovative, transparent, and rewarding ways to travel. With millions of Trivago users now exposed to this transformative experience, the potential for widespread cryptocurrency adoption looks brighter than ever. As Travala and its partners push the boundaries of what’s possible in the crypto-travel space, it’s clear that the future of travel is being rewritten – one digital coin at a time.
