DirectBooker, a startup backed by former Tripadvisor CEO Steve Kaufer and ex-Google Travel head Richard Holden, wants to feed hotel listings directly into AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini — challenging the role of online travel agencies like Booking.com.
Sanjay Vakil said that the default behavior will be to have the OTAs win again. “I would like to prevent that outcome. It’s going take more than just three people to achieve that goal, so we are looking to expand a bit.
Vakil previously held product management leadership roles with Google Travel and Tripadvisor. DirectBooker’s other co-founders are Chief Product Officer Theresa Meyer, and Chief Executive Officer Michael Vakil.
