Distribution comparison
OpenStays compared with online travel agencies
OpenStays and online travel agencies use different distribution models. OpenStays makes owner-approved property facts available to AI travel agents, then sends interested guests to the owner or agency booking route.
An online travel agency operates a central marketplace and usually controls more of the search, communication or booking journey.
OpenStays and online travel agencies at a glance
| Question | OpenStays | Online travel agencies |
|---|---|---|
| Listing cost and commission | No listing fee and 0% booking commission. | Fees, commission and plan terms vary by platform. |
| Booking and payment role | Does not process bookings or payments and is not the merchant of record. | The platform's booking, payment and merchant role varies by platform, market and plan. |
| Guest route | Sends interested guests to the owner or agency booking route shown on the Property Passport. | Search, communication and booking controls vary by platform and plan. |
| Property data control | The owner or agency controls the Property Passport and can edit, unpublish or republish it as facts change. | Listing controls, data access and portability vary by platform and plan. |
| Using other channels | Can be used alongside other distribution channels. | Check the terms of each platform and plan. |
OpenStays does not replace an owner's website, booking provider or existing listings. It adds a public, AI-readable route to owner-approved property facts and the owner's or agency's approved booking route.