In a significant move for the travel industry and cryptocurrency adoption, Travala, a leading travel website that accepts cryptocurrency payments, has announced a strategic partnership with trivago (TRVG). This collaboration will allow trivago users to access Travala’s extensive inventory of 2.2 million properties from around the globe.
When users of the trivago platform choose a Travala listing, they will be redirected to the Travala website, where a diverse range of payment options in cryptocurrency are available. Customers can pay using Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and many other cryptocurrencies, thus enhancing the flexibility of payment methods in the travel sector.
This partnership with trivago follows similar integrations by Travala, including with travel search engines like Skyscanner in September of last year and Kayak in November 2023. Such alliances not only expand Travala’s user base but also further legitimize the use of cryptocurrencies for real-world transactions, such as hotel bookings and flight payments.
Founded in 2017 and based in Singapore, Travala has established itself as a pioneer in cryptocurrency travel services and continues to innovate by allowing users to earn rewards in Bitcoin or its native token, AVA. However, the AVA token has experienced significant market volatility, having dropped by more than 50% this year after reaching a three-year high of over $3 in December.
In addition to its growth initiatives, it’s worth noting that Travala is currently exploring acquisition opportunities, having received unsolicited offers during late last year, as reported by CoinDesk. One of its previous acquisition suitors, Booking.com (BKNG), the parent company of Kayak, ultimately decided against pursuing a deal.
As the travel industry increasingly embraces technology and digital currencies, this partnership between Travala and trivago sets an exciting precedent. It reflects a broader trend towards integrating decentralized finance into consumer experiences across various industries, promising more convenience and flexibility for travelers.
