Intention-based site connects travel agents with consumers planning a trip

UK-based Make Me a Holiday connects travelers and agents through an online marketplace.

We’ve seen a few examples of trip-planning services in which travel agents compete for consumers’ business, including HolidayCrowd earlier this year. Now, suggesting that the intention-based model is catching on in the travel world, UK-based Make Me a Holiday operates on a similar principle by connecting travelers and agents through an online marketplace. Travelers begin by giving Make Me a Holiday as much detail as they can about the trip they’d like to take, including any special needs or preferences. Once their request is posted, interested travel agents can send quotes and messages through the site, which keeps travelers’ email addresses confidential. Users can then evaluate the bids they receive; once they find one they like, they proceed with booking directly through the chosen agent. Neither travelers nor agents currently pay to use Make Me a Holiday, but eventually agents may be charged a small subscription or commission-based fee, the company says. After they take their trip, meanwhile, travelers can leave agent reviews to share their experience with others. The intention economy is nothing if not a global phenomenon, but both HolidayCrowd and Make Me a Holiday currently focus on the UK. Who will bring a similar service to travelers in other parts of the world?