Hotel Revenue Glossary · Distribution

Metasearch

A comparison platform that aggregates hotel rates from multiple booking channels (OTAs, direct website, GDS) into a single search result. Major metasearch engines include Google Hotel Ads, Trivago, Kayak, and TripAdvisor. Hotels bid for placement or pay per click.

Why it matters: Metasearch puts the hotel's direct rate alongside OTA rates, giving guests a side-by-side comparison. When the direct rate is competitive, metasearch can divert bookings from OTAs to the hotel's own website, reducing commission costs substantially.

All glossary terms Direct Booking OTA (Online Travel Agency) Rate Parity