Sean O'Neill

Online travel agencies have been late to the airline sector push to sell airfares and other products in more modern ways. Travix has reached a milestone, though, with the help of tech firm Amadeus, and its story suggests the outline of future trends.

Sabre has sold operational tools to airlines for years, but the business unit became complacent. CEO Sean Menke has revved up the travel tech company's metabolism. But it will take at least a year for his turnaround to kickstart renewed revenue growth in this unit.

This week's travel startups, including YouTrip, GetYourGuide, Away, and Anyplace, announced more than $611 million in funding.

MakeMyTrip Group has impressively diversified enough that it forecasts only a minor hit to revenue during the coming year due to the collapse of Jet Airways, a major carrier in India. No wonder Ctrip decided last month to become the company's largest shareholder.

SoftBank has upended the sales of tours and attractions by investing record-breaking sums in GetYourGuide and Klook. That's boosted valuations to such lofty levels that it may leave only a few options: Merge or go public.

Away has so far managed the tricky transition to brand extensions beyond suitcases. The established travel goods industry will be watching with envy if the startup can continue to pull off its empire-building.

As external capital pours into the vacation rental sector, it makes sense that some property management companies believe they need to merge to thrive. It's also notable that Marriott has already begun working with some of Altido's properties for its new homesharing effort.

Russian regulators have put up obstacles to the long-discussed buyout of the travel technology giant Travelport. Odds are the deal will still be completed, though.

As Booking Holdings brands try to cross-sell their customers on more products, such as attractions, restaurants, and ground transportation, more companywide collaboration may be inevitable. No brand mergers are in the offing, but signs point toward more coordination.

Planning and booking complex international trips remains a pain point, and Tourlane, Skylark, and TravelLocal are part of a growing wave of companies attempting to provide savvier solutions for travelers. Plus: funding news for authentic souvenir aggregator Rare Planet, serviced apartments provider Mint House, and sustainable mobility tech provider TransitScreen.