Concomitantly with the launching of its search decision engine, Microsoft also introduced what it referred to as a new search destination for travelers. The Redmond company is pointing out that Bing Travel should be the first stop for all consumers looking to travel. As of June 3rd, when the Bing rollout was completed worldwide, users can access the new tools and features of Bing Travel, designed to enable them to make better choices when it comes down to not only their destinations but also flights, hotels, and airfare deals. The software giant explained that the extensive capabilities of Bing Travel were available to consumers thanks to the integration of Farecast, acquired in 2008, in combination with the content on MSN Travel.

“Bing Travel has a simple goal: help people make smarter, more informed decisions regarding travel,” explained Hugh Crean, general manager of Bing Travel. “Travelers face plenty of challenges — from airport security and luggage restrictions to finding their hotel in an unknown city or trying to speak a foreign language. Researching and booking travel should be simple and easy, and now Bing Travel is here to help.”

Microsoft revealed that over 52% of potential travelers were looking at at least three websites before making a decision on airfare. 45% of people turned to search engines to help them select flights and hotels. With Bing Travel, the Redmond company aims to close the gap between consumers and the best deals available.

In this regard, via Bing Travel, customers will be able to take advantage of such tools and features as Price Predictor (designed to forecast how airfare prices are going to evolve), Rate Indicator (set up to highlight the best hotel deals), but also Travel Deals, Comparison Flight & Hotel Search, and Fare Alerts. Microsoft is even pointing to Bing Travel as the right place to find an alternative to a vacation abroad for customers who are looking to spend less.

“We know that a summer vacation isn’t an option for everyone this year, but for those with even a modest travel budget, it will go a long way this year,” added Joel Grus, Bing Travel fareologist. “We also encourage people to shift how they think about a summer vacation. Instead of flying to Mexico or Hawaii, consider taking advantage of incredibly low hotel rates in a city nearby. Anyone who is creative, flexible and a little savvy can find a trip to fit almost any budget.”