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Here are five stories about innovation, trends, and startups that caught my eye this week:
- Local experts and authentic travel experiences. TravelLocal just got $10.3 million from investors to help them boost their mission of sustainable, local-centric travel. The startup wants people to travel in ways that are good for the environment and help local communities, connecting travelers with experts in each destination, offering authentic experiences. This funding will drive international expansion and enhance their marketplace, amplifying their unique approach to meaningful and responsible travel.
- Boosting an European digital hospitality pioneer. NUMA Group secured $59 million in Series C funding led by Verlinvest to advance its innovative tech stack and expand its digital hospitality platform across Europe. Their fully digital hospitality brand combines the best of hotels and short-term rentals, offering guests seamless experiences from booking to checkout. With over €1.5 billion in real estate assets and 4,500 rooms in 28 European cities, NUMA is transforming the hospitality industry, bringing both high-level consumer experiences and operational efficiency through tech.
- Contactless hotel stays. Ireland-based hospitality tech platform, Shackle, raised £12 million in a Series A round. Founded in 2020, Shackle offers a comprehensive app integrating with hotel systems for contactless check-in, keyless entry, and room service. The startup aims to reduce check-in times at hotels, improving customer experiences.
- Fresh touch for in-destination experiences. Barcelona-based Globick just got $1.5 million from investors. The funds will boost the startup’s strategic commercial expansion and enhance the tech team to work with more travel suppliers. Globick aims to become the leading B2B connectivity platform in the in-destination experiences market. The startup has seen an increase in transaction volume, as well as growing client base including Trip.com and Hellotickets.
- Bringing back the 70’s travel vibes. Loge Camps, a Washington-based lodging brand focusing on outdoor experiences, has successfully secured over $16 million in funding. The funds will accelerate growth, introducing new destinations, experiences, and amenities to their current property network. Inspired by the free-spirited travel culture of the 70s, Loge Camps offers a variety of ways to stay, fostering a sense of community through communal spaces and local experiences, embodying the relaxed energy of a road trip with friends.