Web surfers can search for and arrange all of their travel and accommodations online, and can often save money doing so. The Web gives people access to much of the same information previously accessible only by travel agents.
Microsoft offers travel services through www.expedia.com. Microsoft Expedia allows you to book all of your travel arrangements, including transportation and lodging. Membership is free and members are give access to a database of information offering them the best available options.
Cheaptickets (www.ceaptickets.com) is a similar site that helps customers find discount fares for airline tickets, hotel rooms, cruise vacations and rental cars. Users are give access to a database of up to the minute flight schedule data.
Many travel sites are targeting business travelers specifically. BizTravel.com will reimburse customers in the event of a late or cancelled flight, lost luggage, or poor in-flight service. The rate of reimbursement is based on the severity of the problem. All flights that are cancelled or arrive more than two hours later than scheduled are reimbursed in full. Lost luggage is also paid for in full. This system is designed for business travelers.
Another site designed for business travelers www.getthere.com helps corporate clients cut travel costs by connecting them directly to airlines, hotels and rental cars through its site. GetThere also outsources its technology, allowing portal sites to offer similar services.