Travel guide and tour booking site TheCultureTrip.com has been acquired by media organization US News & World Report.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but a statement said TheCultureTrip.com is the latest company to join the U.S. News travel franchise and already offers “rankings, travel, and information to help travelers decide where they want to go.” It includes “advice to do.” , choose how to get there, where to stay, and what to do. ”
Culture Trip has had an interesting journey since its founding in 2011. In 2018, he announced $80 million in funding, but some are wondering if his travel content publisher is reinventing the wheel with the launch of an online booking service.
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The funding was used to launch an online travel agency announced in mid-2019. Culture Trip has since evolved its e-commerce strategy, including adding multi-day tours in mid-2021.
Finally, the company announced in the middle of last year that it was exploring opportunities to sell or bring in new investors.
Eric Gertler, executive chairman and CEO of U.S. News, said: Consumers want reliable information and resources when planning their trips. With this acquisition, millions of travelers now have the tools they need to find the best value and experience. ”
The website was acquired from holding company Culture Trip Travel UK, whose CEO Anna Jakimowska said: “Culture Trip’s mission is to provide expert-vetted, world-class It is about connecting people through destinations and is considered one of the most “insider” resources for travelers to make travel decisions, he said. Where they want to have the best experience. In addition to this, you can experience travel recommendations through small, insider-driven group trips, making Culture Trip a comprehensive travel platform. We are excited about the expertise and resources that U.S. News will provide to accomplish this mission. ”
Jakimowska led the company’s management buyout before announcing it was considering a potential sale.
More than 50 million travelers visit travel.USNews.com annually, the statement said. The company also offers services such as GoToSea and travel guides around the world.