CHICAGO -- Orbitz launched its dynamic-packaging tool and dubbed it
the "Vacation Matrix."
The technology, which uses a grid that has certain similarities
to Orbitz's air-search display, enables customers to view up to 120
hotel-airline packages (a maximum of 20 hotels and six airlines) on
the same screen .
When customers click on a price, the next screen reveals flight
times and any upgrade options for the hotel.
If customers don't like the flight time, they can view other
options, which may cost more money.
Taxes are included in the package price.
There is no booking fee.
Orbitz automatically adds travel insurance, but travelers may
refuse it and click accordingly.
If rental cars are available for the vacation chosen, Orbitz
gives travelers the option to add a rental car. Strangely, when
TravelWeekly.com tried the technology and picked a package to Las
Vegas, there were no cars available.
Orbitz claimed vacation packages "often provide savings in
excess of 15%, compared to booking air and hotel arrangements
separately."
To contact reporter Jerry Limone, send e-mail to [email protected].