Hot 25 Travel Startups: Where Are They Now?

A year after PhocusWire unveiled its Hot 25 Travel Startups for 2025, many of those companies have achieved impressive milestones—from major partnerships and acquisitions to AI breakthroughs reshaping the future of travel tech. As PhocusWire prepares to introduce the 2026 class, it checked in with standout alumni from 2021 through 2025 to see how they’ve evolved and what’s next.

Several 2025 startups expanded rapidly through innovation and collaboration. Lucia, a travel advisor services provider, was acquired by Tern, while AI trip planner Mindtrip acquired Thatch, integrating thousands of curated travel guides into its platform. AncillaryBox launched its first airline partnership with Fiji Airways, while Chain4Travel advanced digital connectivity with its decentralized Camino Network, now spanning 250 global partners.

AI innovation dominated the year. D3x.ai reported its AI outperforming human hotel agents in guest satisfaction, iWander launched an AI companion with City Sightseeing, and Trustd.ai turned digital trust analytics into a paid service for short-term rentals. Meanwhile, Eco.mio and HyperGuest leveraged data-driven platforms to drive sustainability and B2B growth.

Looking to 2026, priorities include scaling globally, deepening AI capabilities, and accelerating industry adoption. Companies like Faye, Mindtrip, and TourOptima are expanding into new verticals, while others such as Tripesa and PassiveBolt are redefining Africa’s and hospitality’s tech infrastructure.

As PhocusWire’s next Hot 25 announcement nears, these startups exemplify how technology, AI, and sustainability are reshaping travel innovation and creating smarter, more connected journeys worldwide.

Tags: phocuswire, SyndicEx251109B

Hot 25 Travel Startups: Where Are They Now?

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