Online travel marketplace Travelzoo launched a search tool this week that lets users query several low-cost carriers and discount travel sites by entering information only once.
Dubbed SuperSearch, the search engine carries performance-based listings from airlines and discount travel sites. Unlike meta-search engines, SuperSearch does not return combined listings on a single page. It gives searchers one-click access to results from each travel site that serves a route. Searchers’ flight information is then automatically fed into the selected travel site, which opens in a separate browser window.
“We’re making sure we balance the needs of the users and advertisers,” said Jason Dailey, SuperSearch’s product manager. “Consumers want control over how they visit the different sites.”
Travelzoo, New York, shows customers discount travel deals through its Web site and e-mail newsletters. SuperSearch is available through Travelzoo’s Web site. Searchers can use it to find prices for flights and hotels. The company plans to add other travel-related products, such as car rentals and vacation packages.
Travelzoo is not operating an auction. It charges a flat fee. Advertiser Web sites are displayed with logos. Non-advertiser sites are available through a drop-down menu. Dailey declined to disclose pricing. Expedia, Travelocity, Hotwire, Cheap Tickets and Orbitz are advertisers.
Dailey said Travelzoo developed the search technology. It incorporates user data to become more relevant over time.
SuperSearch will compete with more established travel search engines like IAC's TripAdvisor and SideStep.com.
