Startups

Big Data is drawing mega attention. But, whether the plethora of travel startups tossing around the term are earnestly focusing on the technology in the hope of creating the next big thing, that's another matter.

Apple's Passbook service has seen mixed pickup since June 2012 launch, but long term mobile becoming a omnibus wallet is where it is going. Passkit is heavily dependent on consumer adoption of Passbook and similar services.

An opportunity to schmooze with buzzy travel startups, or if you do it right, learn how every topic discussed at SXSW from technology to marketing impacts the tourism business.

We'll almost inevitably see a convergence between the vacation homes of HomeAway and Flipkey, and the apartment rentals of Airbnb, and that will highlight how these companies share common interests when local legislators try to curb their activities.

When drivers for SideCar get busted in Austin, they'll be the ones stuck with the fines, not the VC-backed startup. How's that for sharing?

Inspirato's rebranding and partnership with American Express puts it on the map. The companies still have to prove; however, that there is a large enough market for Inspirato's luxury services.

Nascent travel startups look to Hipmunk’s 2011 win in the innovative technology sector as a sign that getting a SXSW pat on the back is clear path to success, but in reality, it’s a small victory among the many obstacles.

We'd love to be wrong, but Roomer will face stiff challenges scaling this business and convincing buyers that they have nothing to fear in purchasing hotel reservations from other travelers.