Dutch TravelTech platform GeniusTravel raises €2 million to roll out travel packages app
Amstelveen-based TravelTech startup GeniusTravel today announced the successful completion of a €2 million funding round to develop their AI-powered app designed to find and book complete travel packages.
Investors in this round have chosen to remain anonymous, but their contributions are set to enable the company to roll out the app in the Netherlands this year, with other European markets to follow.
“AI – and generative AI in particular – has proven its value in recent years by simplifying a wide range of manual tasks,” said one of the investors. “I strongly believe in the potential of applying this technology to the travel industry to better, faster, and more easily meet consumer needs. Most people book their holidays online, but many still turn to tour operators for guidance. Genius brings the best of both worlds together through smart technology.”
Founder Gennie Freen says the inspiration behind the company was his frustration at the hassle of comparing countless travel platforms, destinations, and prices. Determined to simplify the process of finding and booking affordable trips, he set out to build a one-stop travel app leveraging the power of AI.
This led to Genius, which is allegedly the first AI app for complete travel packages for the budget-conscious consumer.
The app allows users to create an entire trip – including flights and accommodation – based on personal preferences and budget.
The easiest option is to let the AI do the work: travelers simply send a message to, or start a chat with, Genius, the AI travel agent, to communicate their travel wishes. The app then automatically curates a personalised selection of travel packages.
“This feature makes finding the most affordable and suitable trip as easy as asking ChatGPT a question,” Freen explains.
In addition, Genius reportedly leverages AI to compile the best daily deals across different price ranges and categories, such as short trips under €120 per person (including flights and accommodation), weekend getaways, trips to popular destinations like party islands, departures within one week, and a daily top 10 deals list.
Those who prefer to search manually can use a range of filters. Travelers may enter just a budget – receiving a curated selection of global offers – or search more specifically by destination and/or travel dates.
Genius utilises Expedia’s database, with whom it collaborates with, to mix and match flights and accommodations for unique travel packages with a “best-price guarantee“.
Additional filters – such as accommodation facilities and amenities – will be added soon.
Following over three years of development and Beta-testing, the app is now available for free in the App Store (iOS) and Play Store (Android).
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