Directo Turns TikTok Travel Hack into Deal-Finding Chrome Extension
In recent months, a travel hack has taken TikTok by storm. It teaches users how to save money on hotels and Airbnb rentals by booking directly with the properties themselves. Now, a new startup called Directo is building upon this concept, offering a Chrome extension that points users to discounted rates at hotels and vacation rental properties.
The Problem with Booking Websites
When booking through larger websites like Expedia or Airbnb, travelers often pay extra fees for services like cleaning charges or commission on sales. By booking directly from the property’s website, however, these costs can be avoided. The problem is that finding these deals can be time-consuming and requires a bit of detective work.
The Travel Hack That Went Viral
One popular travel hack involves using reverse image search on photos of listings to find the property’s website. This can be particularly useful for booking longer stays, where the savings can really add up. For example, @humphreytalksMoney Hacks has shared this tip with their audience:
"Life hack: Use reverse image search on photos of listings to find the property’s website! You can often find cheaper rates when booking directly from the property’s site."
Meet Directo
Directo is a new startup that aims to make it easier for travelers to book directly with hotels and vacation rental properties. The company was founded by Pierre Becerril, a co-founder and CEO who has a background in the travel industry. Becerril participated in a TechCrunch hackathon where he met his co-founders Marina Guastavino and Julian Toledo.
How Directo Works
Directo’s Chrome extension identifies properties that use modern tech stacks and offer safe checkout processes. This can alleviate concerns about security and credit card transactions when booking directly with the property. The extension also relies on a community of users who submit websites for consideration and flag those where they’ve found great deals.
The Benefits of Booking Direct
Booking directly from a hotel or vacation rental property’s website has several benefits, including:
- Avoiding fees: By booking directly, travelers can avoid extra fees like cleaning charges or commission on sales.
- Better rates: Properties often offer discounted rates when booked through their own website.
- More flexibility: When booking directly, travelers may have more flexibility to negotiate rates or change their reservation.
The Future of Travel Booking
Directo’s Chrome extension is just the beginning. As travel technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative solutions that make it easier for travelers to book directly with hotels and vacation rental properties.
Directo Raises $1 Million in Pre-Seed Funding
In a recent funding round, Directo raised $1 million in pre-seed funding from French VC firm Kima Ventures, Calafia, an angel group of Global Female Tech Leaders, travel specialist fund Derive Ventures, and 26 travel industry veterans. This investment will help the company continue to develop its platform and expand its reach.
Conclusion
Directo is revolutionizing the way we book hotels and vacation rental properties. By offering a Chrome extension that points users to discounted rates at these properties, Directo is making it easier for travelers to save money and avoid extra fees. As travel technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative solutions like Directo’s in the future.
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