Code, context, and culture: How Japanese OTAs are wielding AI for the next travel wave
Biggest obstacle is lack of “shared data standards and open infrastructure”, says KabuK’s Sunada
In the bustling intersection of tradition and technology that defines modern Japan, a quiet but profound transformation is underway in the travel space – driven not by hype, but by the pragmatic [...]
Lotte’s Travel+Fintech app. China tops Japan in trends. Technoheaven’s bed bank. HotelBank x TA Network. SEO is out, AI is in
China tops Japan as Singaporeans spend strategically this June
YouTrip’s June Holiday Travel Trends Report reveals that despite economic pressures, Singaporeans are still embracing travelwith more intention and financial strategy. One in four travellers visited multiple destinations during the mo [...]
Alipay+ integrates Voyager, AI travel companion, into its digital wallets
OTA launch partners include Agoda, Fliggy and Trip.com
Ant International has launched Alipay+ Voyager, an AI travel companion integrated into its digital wallets, a move that takes the company beyond payments, and giving travellers more reasons to stay within its wallet ecosystem.
Its OTA launch [...]
Expedia’s Shilpa Ranganathan: Not about shiny but simple, intuitive tech
For Shilpa Ranganathan, product leadership isn’t about shiny tech – it’s about trust, empathy, and making travel feel effortless.
Speaking at Phocuswright Europe, the Chief Product Officer of Expedia Group laid out her vision for how AI and human-centred design can radically simplify the comp [...]
Global air travel climbs 5%, Asia-Pacific leads the way
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for May 2025 global passenger demand with the following highlights:
Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 5.0% compared to May 2024. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was [...]
Timothy O’Neil-Dunne on fixing travel, generational change and consumer trust | Conversations on Turning 20
When you get to the ripe young age of 20, you’re bound to collect lots of stories – not only about the past but lessons for the future.
As WiT marks its 20th year in 2025, we turn the spotlight on our community, our tribe pioneers and leaders, to tell their stories and share their views on th [...]
From cruises to soba tours, experiences on fire
“The tours and activities sector is having a breakout moment.” That’s how Yuki Hayashi, CTO of VELTRA, opened panel on “Tours & Activities On A Rising Tide” at WiT Japan & North Asia 2025. And judging by the numbers and ideas flying across the stage, he’s not exaggerating.
Tou [...]
From points to personalisation: New trends shaping online travel in Japan
At WiT Japan & North Asia 2025, a panel discussion featuring leaders from Booking.com, Agoda, and travel fintech startup Heymax revealed how the online travel game in Japan is being reshaped by younger travellers, AI-powered personalisation, and a rising demand for authenticity and connection.
[...]
flyadeal joins AlFursan. Agoda’s 20th sale success. Dynamic pricing is in. QiYouJi, TA Network go luxe B2B. More.
flyadeal takes off with AlFursan
Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier flyadeal has officially joined AlFursan, the loyalty programme of its sister airline Saudia, offering members more flexibility to earn and redeem miles across a growing network of domestic and international destinations. Announced a [...]
Big bets, bold moves: Investors double down on Middle East’s travel startup future
In a region undergoing massive economic transformation, the Middle East’s travel sector is becoming fertile ground for venture bets – from Umrah companions and cargo startups to AI-led personalisation.
At the WiT Phocuswright Middle East panel moderated by Phocuswright Managing Director Pete Co [...]
