The .TRAVEL top-level domain (TLD) is an Internet domain name extension specifically intended for entities in the travel industry. It pioneers the concept of industry-specific TLDs, implemented by the governing body for domain names, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). In this case, ICANN partnered with Tralliance Corporation, an entity that operates .TRAVEL and enforces its eligibility policy.
Broadly speaking, the eligibility for registering a .TRAVEL domain includes airlines, tourism bureaus, hotels, travel agents, tour operators, and other institutions involved in the global travel industry. This exclusivity provides a major benefit of a .TRAVEL domain, ensuring that only credible and validated companies related to the travel sector use this TLD, offering a sense of legitimacy and trust for Internet users (#1 – ICANN).
Therefore, for a company in the travel sector, a .TRAVEL TLD can provide a clear signal to consumers about the industry field, enhancing its online visibility and authenticity, since .TRAVEL demonstrates a commitment to the travel industry and adherence to regulated standards.
An example of this could be the domain www.newzealand.travel. Here, ‘newzealand’ is the second-level domain, and ‘.travel’ is the TLD. The Tourism New Zealand group runs this website to promote tourism within New Zealand. This is one way in which the .TRAVEL TLD can be utilized effectively, signifying a direct association with the travel sector (#2 – NewZealand.travel).
One aspect to consider is that as of 2018, there is no longer a strict validation process to register a .TRAVEL domain name. Donuts Inc. acquired Tralliance Corporation, the entity managing the .TRAVEL TLD. As stated by Donuts, .TRAVEL domain registration is now open to anyone interested in travel, without the need for sector validation, opening up a broader audience to this industry-specific TLD (#3 – Donuts Inc.).
In conclusion, the .TRAVEL TLD aims to provide value to businesses and organizations within the travel industry and help users to easily locate information related to travelling. While its exclusivity may have reduced due to recent changes in administration, the .TRAVEL TLD remains a definitive marker within the travel industry airspace online.
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