Uber expands into travel with hotel bookings partnership with Expedia

Uber Technologies (UBER) announced a new set of products and features at its annual GO-GET product event, including hotel bookings and new travel tools. “Among the new offerings, Uber introduced a partnership with Expedia Group (EXPE) that allows Uber customers to book hotels directly in the Uber app, unlocking immense value for travelers. At a time when airline prices are soaring and the summer is predicted to see a surge of travel, consumers are looking for optimal ways to book trips and save. Uber and Expedia Group are partnering to offer Uber users in the U.S. access to a wide selection of hotels, which will ultimately grow to more than 700,000 properties in destinations around the globe. Uber One members will earn 10% back in Uber One credits on all hotel bookings, plus they’ll save at least 20% on a rolling list of more than 10,000 hotels worldwide. Vacation rentals from Expedia Group brand, Vrbo, will be added later this year. The partnership is expected to expand beyond the U.S. In addition, following an initial pilot, Uber rides will be integrated directly in the Expedia app beginning in June. Travelers will receive push notifications before their hotel check-in date to book Uber rides at a discount for the duration of their trip… Uber also introduced Travel Mode, a new experience within the Uber and Uber Eats apps, offering travelers curated recommendations on local favorites, popular tourist destinations, OpenTable reservations, Uber’s version of ‘room service’ delivered directly to your hotel door, and even forgotten items for those traveling to new destinations,” the company stated.