The Impact of APIs on Modern Travel Agencies

What is API?

It is an interface that allows two written programs to exchange information, acting as a virtual intermediary. It can be likened to a translator that facilitates communication between two people who speak two different languages. APIs enable applications and services to exchange data and commands smoothly and efficiently.

We can benefit from APIs by employing them in travel agencies to speed up work technically and improve customer service. Let’s take a look at some real-life examples to clarify the meaning:

Flight reservations: When a customer searches for a flight from New York to London, the agency calls the API of different airlines to fetch current data about available flights, prices, and departure and arrival times. This allows the agency to quickly provide updated options to customers.

Hotel booking: A travel agency can use an API from a site like Booking.com or Expedia to bring information about room availability, prices, and ratings directly to its site or app, enabling the customer to book the room that suits them best without leaving the agency's site.

Car booking: When booking a trip, a customer can also see car rental options at their destination, as this information is fetched by API from car rental providers such as Hertz or Avis.

Let's compare a travel agency with API and without API:

Speed ​​of providing information:

With API
Speed ​​and accuracy. Information about flights, hotels and car rentals is available in an up-to-date and quick manner.
Easy integration as all data from different service providers is available in one place.

Without API
Slow and inaccurate updates Employees have to manually search for information, which leads to delays and inaccurate updates.
Multiple sources because customers may have to visit multiple sites to obtain the necessary information.

Customer experience:

With API
A seamless experience so customers can see all the available options in one place and make their decisions quickly.
Integrated services that enable the customer to book a flight, hotel, and car rental through one platform.

Without API
Information may be limited and does not reflect all options available in the market.

Operational efficiency:

With API
High efficiency: Processes are automated, reducing manual effort and allowing employees to focus on customer services.
Reduce errors: Reducing the need for manual input reduces the likelihood of errors occurring.

Without API
Low efficiency: The significant effort required for manual research and data entry increases operational time and costs.
Greater likelihood of errors: Relying on manual input increases the likelihood of errors occurring.

The question now is can we build a travel agency without using API:

Yes, you can establish a travel agency without an API and at lower costs, but you will lose several competitive advantages that could move you to a more successful path among different travel agencies.