With the introduction of TripAdvisor’s Viator, a new booking platform to link consumers up with local travel agencies and experiences, things have gotten way easier for tours and attraction to be booked. In addition, it has also been noted that it seems to be more profitable for travel agents. Before the establishment of Viator, customers usually have to source for their own tour groups and in many cases, these tour groups might not have a customised package that fits their personal preference.
However, with this platform, it connects consumers easily with both host agencies and individual agents. Adopting a tagline of “travel with insiders”, Viator seeks to target consumers looking for unique experiences such as having dinner with Parisian hosts. Such experiences could be hard to obtain through one’s personal means.
Nevertheless, Viator is not the first to introduce such extensive local experience. Companies like Airbnb have also been introduced such services and it would be interesting to look out for how these companies would compete and differentiate themselves.

Would love to hear your thoughts, you may find the link below:
http://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/tripadvisor-s-viator-launches-travel-agent-booking-platform