TravelPass buys travel planning website

Lehi-based TravelPass Group, a hotel-booking service serving over 1 million properties worldwide, has acquired Jauntaroo, a travel planning and discovery website, from Vacation Travel Match LLC of Smithfield. Terms were not disclosed.

“The acquisition of Jauntaroo, as well as recent partnerships with Best Day Travel and Secret Escapes, showcases TravelPass Group’s commitment to expanding its offerings and its focus on destination travel and consumer facing experiences,” the company said in announcing the purchase.

“A lot of travel companies concentrate on the booking aspect of the consumer funnel, but the reality is many consumers don’t know where they want to go when they start the booking process,” said Daniel A. Nelson, executive chairman of TravelPass Group. “Jauntaroo’s unique technology will give TravelPass Group’s platform the ability to move up the funnel and assist consumers at the critical point of inspiration and discovery and help them find and book the best rates possible. We’re excited to have Jauntaroo be part of the TravelPass Group family.”

Jauntaroo offers a channel for convention and visitor bureaus to share their story and travel destination, while also allowing aspiring travelers to dream and discover without the pressure of urgent “book now” messaging, The company said. Jauntaroo’s unique algorithm ranks more than 300 potential destinations based on the consumer’s search criteria using professional reviews and customer feedback. TravelPass Group’s marketplace allows hotels to maximize distribution, while helping travelers find the best rates. With the acquisition of Jauntaroo, TravelPass Group is expanding its expertise in customizing its offerings and interacting with consumers at every aspect of the travel booking process.

“When I founded Jauntaroo, I wanted to help travelers answer the age old question of where they should travel on vacation,” said Chad Meyerson, founder of Jauntaroo and vice president of strategic relations at TravelPass Group. “TravelPass Group’s technology, business intelligence and leadership are the industry standard. It’s a pleasure to be part of such a well-renowned company, and help push the brand.”