AI Enhances Business Travel Booking

Eric Estegassy's company, Openbooking.io, is enhancing its use of artificial intelligence to simplify business travel reservations. The platform allows users to make bookings using natural language, such as asking to "reserve my usual hotel in Paris next Tuesday with breakfast."

Integration with AI Assistants

Openbooking.io connects with major AI assistants like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini through a system called the Model Context Protocol (MCP). This integration allows users to book travel services without leaving their AI assistant interface.

Universal Commerce Protocol Development

Openbooking.io is also part of the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a standard developed by Google to enable direct purchases and bookings through AI interfaces. The UCP aims to streamline the booking process for users and improve interactions between AI agents and service providers.

Hotel Participation in UCP

As of late September, the first technical guidelines for hotel reservations using AI were published. Major companies like Google, Booking, Expedia, Amadeus, Marriott, and Hilton are involved in creating this standard. Openbooking.io is working with pilot hotels and has seen interest from many others.

UCP and the Role of Intermediaries

While the UCP aims to make hotel offerings more accessible to AI agents, traditional booking platforms like Booking.com are also involved in its development. The UCP seeks to align with the practical needs of hotels, including availability, pricing, and payment processes, while preparing them for new interactions with professional clients.

New Payment Solution Launched

In addition to Openbooking.io, Estegassy has introduced Novalife, a payment solution for travel agencies and suppliers. This platform offers various payment options, including cashback, prepayment, and multi-currency support, helping agencies manage their finances more efficiently.