booking engine

Is a software application that powers the search, selection, and purchase of travel services, turning traveler intent into confirmed reservations in real time. Embedded in websites, mobile apps, and agent portals, it connects front-end user interfaces with back-end inventory systems, global distribution systems (GDSs), and supplier databases. Within the ecosystem of Travel Operations & Distribution,…

online booking

Refers to the digital process through which travelers search, select, and confirm travel services—such as flights, hotels, car rentals, tours, and activities—via websites, mobile apps, or integrated reservation platforms. Within the field of travel operations and distribution, it is the consumer-facing surface of a complex ecosystem of global distribution systems (GDS), channel managers, payment gateways,…

reservation

Is a formal commitment to hold travel services—such as hotel rooms, airline seats, rental cars, or tour spots—for a specific guest, at a specific time, under agreed conditions. Within travel operations and distribution, it functions as the crucial bridge between a traveler’s intent to journey and the actual allocation of inventory in the global tourism…

travel agency

Acts as an intermediary between travelers and travel suppliers, providing advice, planning, and booking services for trips that range from simple point-to-point journeys to complex, multi-stop itineraries. Within the operations and distribution landscape of tourism, this entity connects demand (travelers and corporate clients) with supply (airlines, hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, rail companies, car rentals,…