Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Several major online travel agencies and metasearch engines maintain significant California operations, offering budget-friendly vacation packages. Here's a breakdown of key players with Golden State connections:
Headquarters: Aliso Viejo, Orange County
A dedicated online travel agency offering bundled flight, hotel, and car rental packages. Their "Deals" section features last-minute packages and seasonal promotions. As part of the Expedia Group, they access extensive inventory.
Headquarters: Stamford, Connecticut
Major California Office: Los Angeles (Playa Vista)
Kayak operates as a metasearch engine—it doesn't sell directly but aggregates prices from hundreds of travel sites. Their "Explore" tool helps flexible travelers find budget destinations from California airports. The LA office focuses on product development and West Coast partnerships.
Headquarters: Norwalk, Connecticut
California Presence: Significant engineering and operations teams in San Francisco and Los Angeles
Famous for "Name Your Own Price" (now discontinued) and "Express Deals," Priceline offers opaque booking for deep discounts. Their California teams manage hotel partnerships and mobile product development.
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
Major California Office: San Francisco
Another Expedia Group brand, Orbitz's San Francisco office drives technology innovation. Their "Orbitz Rewards" program offers immediate hotel discounts (up to 10% back as "Orbucks") on package bookings.
Headquarters: Southlake, Texas
Major California Office: San Francisco
Travelocity's "Price Match Guarantee" and package deals (flight + hotel) can yield savings. Their California team focuses on mobile experience and West Coast supplier relationships.