Aggregator websites or meta-search sites

I - Definition:

Generally speaking, aggregator sites are sites that gather Web content (and/or sometimes applications) from different online sources.

If we apply this concept to the travel industry, we may find what is called "travel aggregators" on the Internet. Here is a definition: "Aggregator sites run searches on numerous Web sites simultaneously, then link directly to the search results so you can purchase the fares within a click or two. The great advantage of aggregators is the ability to search dozens of airline Web sites, all at the same time, as well as one or more of the major booking sites."

II - Comparison of 2 aggregator sites:

Sidestep vs. Mobissimo

Sidestep:

This aggregator has recently merged with Kayak, but both websites still operate separately.

Its target audience is travellers who are price and time-conscious. They are looking for the best deals in a simple and quick manner. The map displayed when looking for hotels confirms this target.

The aggregator sites that Sidestep researches are the most common ones that we can find on the internet. There are no special OTAs dedicated to luxury or green travel for example, although it is possible for travellers to book luxury stays by selecting high-end hotels in the list.
Regarding the flights, it searches through 3 main flight search engines. Same goes for Cruises, car rentals etc.

Sidestep has partners at different levels: advertisers, hotel owners, affiliates etc. It shares them with its sister website Kayak.

Mobissimo:

The target audience for Mobissimo slightly differs from Sidestep. It does not just search for fares, it also is about sharing experiences with Mobishare, being part of a community of friends with MobiFriends, and browsing by activity.

The booking sites found on Mobilissimo vary according to flights, hotels, car rental, etc.

The partners for Mobissimo are its affiliates. Just now, the site is still appealing to them.

The benefits of using such aggregators is that they allow the travellers to search hundreds of possibilities in a single click: OTAs, official hotel or airlines websites, etc.
More specifically, for both this websites, the benefit is that it is very clear and simple to use. Mobissimo also offers options of community websites, which makes it even more friendly to use.

III - Travel experts' opinion on travel aggregator websites:

A panel of their opinions is here.

IV - My opinion:

I think aggregators are a great tool which has yet to become more popular than OTAs and independent websites. It saves time significantly by searching hundreds of possibilities in one click. It has a neutral objective, the same way a comparison website does, and this enables the travellers to book knowing he made the right decision and was not pushed to it.
For hoteliers, it is different than appearing on OTAs. This time, they dont need to check the rate parity as the aggregator only digs through the information found on OTAs. It is a good opportunity to be more visible on websites.