TripUp is a travel-based social-networking site founded in 2006 by Sam Rogoway who is also the CEO. Travel search company SideStep acquired the site for an undisclosed sum in July 2007. SideStep CEO Rob Solomon sees the acquisition of TripUp as SideStep moving towards becoming a data intensive network; SideStep wants to become the leader in online travel related information. The integration of TripUp’s social and community features into SideStep.com is expected to create an even more powerful online travel experience for TripUp users and SideStep.com’s 6 million monthly visitors. Sites similar to TripUp include Farecast, TripHub and Yapta. TripUp distinguishes itself from other social-networking and travel sites by really focusing on making connections for people before and while they travel. From linking up with a local guide, to hooking up with a fellow traveler, to meeting up on a “trip date”, TripUp connects travelers before they depart so they never feel like a tourist while away. They have an interesting feature “Locate-a-Mate” that allows you to find people traveling to or living in a specific location. Also, the site has a “Compatibility Quiz” that allows TripUp to suggest the perfect tripmate.
