The benefits of an API-first architecture for travel

The rise of cloud computing has been accompanied by the proliferation of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)—essential tools that allow different systems to share data and work together seamlessly.

Modern travel platforms like Spotnana are built with an open, API-first architecture designed for maximum flexibility. Spotnana uses APIs to integrate not only with travel providers and technology platforms, but also with non-travel systems such as expense tools, HR platforms, and more.

What sets Spotnana apart is that our Travel-as-a-Service platform is API-first at its core. Every component communicates via APIs; our user interface is built entirely on top of those APIs as a separate layer. This architecture offers significant benefits to both our customers and partners.

Enhanced functionality and customization

Spotnana’s travel platform is composed of microservices—individual, self-contained services that each handle a specific function, like content, profiles, policies, or analytics. Each microservice has its own API, enabling it to exchange data efficiently across the platform.

This modular approach enables faster development cycles, better reliability, and more effortless scalability. Engineers can work on multiple services in parallel, and new features can be deployed independently without disrupting the entire system.

Because the user experience is decoupled from our backend services, all interactions on our desktop and mobile apps—whether modifying a flight or searching for a hotel—are executed through orchestrated API calls.

This diagram shows how Spotnana’s microservices-based architecture functions.

This separation allows Spotnana to be white labeled easily, making it simple for partners to align our platform with their branding or embed it directly into their software. Expense platforms like Brex, Center, and Expensify have integrated Spotnana, while travel providers like Qantas and Marriott use our platform to power small business booking tools on their websites.

Our open architecture also empowers partners to build their custom features. For example, Qantas developed a tailored search experience and integrated Spotnana with its Passenger Service System (PSS) and loyalty program. We collaborated to create a unique interface that lets travelers pay with credit cards, loyalty points, or a combination of both — all made possible by our API-first design.

Seamless global travel shopping

The travel industry’s content landscape is fragmented — spread across GDSs, aggregators, wholesalers, and direct supplier connections. Spotnana’s architecture is built to manage this complexity.

Our platform simultaneously queries dozens of travel provider and aggregator APIs, then deduplicates, merges, and ranks results to present travelers with accurate, policy-compliant booking options in seconds.

This requires serious processing power and scale. Our Content Engine breaks raw content into granular data — fares, rules, amenities — and stores it in our System of Record. It makes it accessible to other services across the platform.

Thanks to this setup, we can continuously onboard new content sources with minimal disruption and deliver a consistent, automated experience, no matter where the content originates.

Current integrations include:

• NDC: Direct integrations with American Airlines, United, British Airways, Air France–KLM, Lufthansa Group, Emirates, Copa Airlines, plus Sabre NDC.
• Direct connections: Deep integrations with Southwest, Ryanair, easyJet, and Amtrak.
• Low-cost carriers: Content via Travelfusion and Cleartrip.
• OTAs: Hotel content from Expedia and Booking.com.
• Rail: UK and European rail content from Trainline.
• GDS: Flights, hotels, and cars via Sabre.

Robust third-party integrations

Our API-first platform makes it easy to integrate with a wide range of third-party services that enhance the travel experience for travelers, agents, and administrators alike.

Real-time data syncing ensures accurate, consistent information across systems. This saves time and money for travel management companies (TMCs), who often struggle with building and maintaining integrations.

Spotnana offers out-of-the-box connections to a growing list of partners, including:

• Expense management: Brex, Center, Expensify, Emburse, Chrome River
• Health and safety: Crisis24, International SOS, Sherpa
• HR systems: ADP, BambooHR, Workday
• Sustainability: Atmosfair, ATPCO, Thrust Carbon
• Analytics: Cirium, Grasp
• Payments: AirPlus, AMEX BTA, Conferma, Razorpay, Stripe, UATP

Partner with Spotnana

Spotnana’s API-first platform unlocks a new level of flexibility, scalability, and innovation in travel technology. Whether you’re building new customer experiences or streamlining internal operations, our architecture makes it possible.

Want to learn more or see what’s possible? Request a demo today.