China's Economic Slowdown Is Costing the Airlines, Travel Industry $130 Billion

New 'Social Travel App' Frienzy Launches Out Of Dallas

Dallas natives and childhood best friends, James McElroy and Asher Wabrek went their separate ways at 18 to UT Austin and LSU, respectively. In the years since, they've gone on "countless backpacking trips" together and dealt with pain points along the way. The biggest pain: endless text & email chains planning trips with friends. Then all the wrestling with shared costs, expenses, and posting memories and impressions on a scattershot of apps and social media sites.

"Coordinating friends' travel and expenses through text and email chains is a nightmare because it leads to disorganized information, missed details, and confusion over shared costs and plans," Wabrek told Dallas Innovates.

Now—at 26 and 27 and at the upper end of Gen Z—McElroy and Wabrek aim to fix all that with the commercial launch of Frienzy, a new social network and mobile app they've launched out of Dallas. 

Frienzy's co-founders are COO Asher Wabrek (left) and CEO James McElroy [Composite photo; originals: Frienzy]

Frienzy is "a first of its kind" social network that brings group travelers together to securely manage their trip itinerary. Available for both Apple and Android mobile devices, the app lets users receive real-time updates on group events and itinerary changes with the ability to book activities, hotels, dining, and more directly from the app. 

Frienzy tracks shared expenses to enable "accurate and transparent cost splitting and payment," the founders say, offering "one source of truth for trip coordination." For everything from quick getaways to dream vacations, the app lets group travelers connect through "a global network of traveling companions" seeking to join forces and make new friends—with tools to capture and share every moment.

Targeting Gen Z—and modeling behavior for older generations

The co-founders believe Gen Z is all in on group travel and travel in general. They point to an April article by Thrillist, Gen Z Is Spending Nearly Half of Their Disposable Income on Travel, which cites a study showing that 78% of Gen Z travelers intend to take a vacation in the next 12 months. Nearly 50% of those surveyed said they'd be dedicating 20% to 40% of their disposable income toward their vacation.

According to Morning Consul Pro, more than half of Gen Z adults (52%) have taken at least three trips over the previous year.

McElroy says Frienzy was designed to make those trips smoother and even more memorable.

"Frienzy is more than an app," he said in a statement. "It's an entirely new social network and catalyst for bringing friends together around their shared love for adventure and authentic experiences as well as making new connections with likeminded travelers seeking to share their journey and forge new friendships."

"Digitally savvy Gen Z is known for meticulous planning and detailed itineraries while also embracing spontaneity," he added, "so Frienzy had to be flexible enough to manage a pre-built itinerary and empower users to build their adventure on the fly. And we succeeded."

Putting the 'social' in social networks

McElroy and Wabrek see their Gen Z compatriots—who make up more than 20% of the U.S. Population—as "particularly open to group travel and shared experiences because they value meaningful connections and memorable adventures." They think this can appeal to Millennials and Gen X as well through their social networks.

Now they want to Frienzy to be the network where all that happens—helping users better coordinate frequent trips, split costs, and share their experiences with others.

"We aim to get people off their screens and into the world to meet, connect, and share real-life experiences," McElroy told us.

How the app works

Users start their journey on Frienzy by uploading an itinerary or manually inputting their destination and travel dates. The app then recommends bookings based on user interests, including activities, places to stay, and dining options.

Private travel groups of friends and family can be set up through the app for a single trip or a global, multi-destination journey.

Switching to "discovery mode" on the app, an itinerary can also be built from Frienzy's "growing network of traveling companions willing to share their experiences, empowering travelers to discover and connect with new friends or other trips."

During a trip, the app tracks shared expenses and allows group travelers to see and pay what they individually owe. There are also "easy ways" to share photos and trip updates along the way—eliminating the need to coordinate group travel using text messages, e-mails, and phone calls "by automating group communication, improving collaboration and safety."

Funding from a recent angel round—and over 15,000 users already

Developed over the last year, the beta version of the Frienzy app has already attracted over 15,000 users "through organic advertisement, bootstrapped marketing efforts, and word of mouth only," Wabrek said.

That's about to change now that the app has officially launched. The co-founders recently closed an angel funding round that snagged an undisclosed amount from "local family offices, early-stage venture capitalists, and individual angel investors." 

Now they aim to kick things up a notch: The team expects to reach "250,000 multigenerational users" by the end of 2024 through organic growth and strategic distribution partnerships. 

"We're about to turn on paid ads next week for the first time, which we're super pumped about," Wabrek said. "We're seeing users in 20-plus countries so far, too, which is a fun fact to note."

To help spread the message, the co-founders also recently hired a social media manager, Rachael Poissenot. Wabrek says she's taken the business "to new heights."

While the co-founders and their team developed the app in-house, they're now "orchestrating several B2B partnerships with major distribution channels" to ensure an influx of travelers.

The co-founders say they're currently seeking opportunities to fuel Frienzy's next wave of growth "through additional funding rounds."

Giving users the chance to go viral

McElroy says Frienzy offers an "element of virality."

"Users can share their travel experiences and potentially go viral on our discovery page, blending social media excitement with travel," he said.

But sharing expenses, locations, and plans can raise privacy concerns, and the CEO says they've built Frienzy with that in mind.

"Private travel groups on Frienzy are secure, with information shared only within the group and not with the larger community," he noted.

Still, there are ways people across groups can share and connect.

"Strangers can cooperate across our network by sharing itineraries, tips, and experiences, and even joining group activities or trips, fostering a community of like-minded travelers," McElroy said.

Wishing he had the app in Bali

Last year, before Frienzy went live, Wabrek took a trip and wish he'd already had it on his phone.

"I spent some time in Bali and had the privilege of meeting such wonderful and eclectic groups of other travelers," the COO said. "Frienzy would have allowed me to stay in touch with everyone easily, collaborate and coordinate future travels, and also see into where others were traveling. Who knows, maybe I'd want to join in the fun!"

On his next trip, there'll be an app for that.

The Frienzy app is available to download from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. For more, you can check out Frienzy's website.

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R E A D   N E X T

Promising "AI-driven route planning at your fingertips," Routora is a route optimization app that helps you find the shortest, most efficient multi-stop route to save time, gas money, and carbon impact on the environment.

The travel technology company says its new EasyCard aims "to redefine the landscape of corporate payment management." One way it will do that? By "virtually eliminating the need for post-travel expense reports."

Launched last fall on the Apple iOS and Google Play app stores, the Routora app has added 37,000 drivers in over 90 countries, saving them 2.1 million driving miles, 50,000 hours, $315,000 in fuel costs, and 940 tons in CO2 emissions, the startup says.

Frisco Station is getting its first-ever entertainment venues in a one-two zeitgeist punch. Pickle and Social, a pickleball destination with "world-class" indoor and outdoor courts, will be paired with Fairway Social, a "one-of-a-kind experience" with simulators that feature 130 golf courses and 10 other sports for guests of all ages.

The Upswell Summit is coming to Texas for the first time on Nov. 15–17. The Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit Independent Sector is joining forces with community partner Social Venture Partners Dallas for a three-day conclave of minds, missions, and movements. After three years of virtual events, the annual summit is back in person.

The 50 Best Golf Trip Destinations For Women

As more women join the game — 800,000 from 2019 to 2023, according to the National Golf Foundation — more realize one of the greatest experiences for any golfer: Gathering your friends and taking your collective love of golf on the road. To help you and your friends plan your next great golf trip, we talked to women golfers and instructors across the country to curate this list of 50 destinations in the United States that would all make a great choice for a women's golf trip.

We know that every group is looking for something different in a golf getaway, which is why this list is full of unique experiences. Do you and your friends want to travel and only play golf? You'll find that here. Want to play golf and mix in some other activities? Or maybe easy access to a top-notch spa? We have you covered. Is fine wine and dining a necessity? We've found those trips, too.

Each resort featured here provides women-friendly environments, many with golf school options if you want to work on your game while you're away. From the mountains of the Northeast to the beaches of Hawaii, here are the 50 best resorts for women's golf trips.The only question now is, where will you go first?

Group Travel Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

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Group travel insurance is a single policy that covers groups of 10 or more. 

Everyone in the group must have the same itinerary and travel to the same destination.

Shop early and compare quotes to get the best deal. 

Whether preparing for a large family reunion in another state, booking a business trip with colleagues, or traveling with your college crew to a new country, you might consider group travel insurance. Group travel insurance provides financial protection for trips of 10 or more groups. But apart from the party size requirements, it functions the same as other travel insurance policies. 

Here's what you need to know about group travel insurance — how to determine if you need it, different options, and tips to secure the best deal. 

What is group travel insurance?

Group travel insurance is a single travel insurance policy that protects everyone on a trip. The policies are available for groups of 10 or more. Unlike other insurance policies that only cover one person or family travel insurance that only covers related travelers, group travel insurance can cover any group traveling together. You do not have to be related.

Group travel insurance policies usually offer comprehensive coverage, including standard protections against lost luggage, legal fees, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more. 

Key Benefits of Group Travel Insurance Cost-effectiveness

Group travel insurance may be cheaper than buying separate policies for each individual traveler. Insurance companies may provide discounts for insuring multiple people, as this lowers administrative overhead per person. This is similar to how auto insurers offer rate reductions for consumers who insure multiple people under one policy. 

It's worth noting that group travel insurance costs depend on the insurer and your trip details. Comparing quotes can help you find the best rates on the coverages you need.

You can find our guide to the best cheap travel insurance here.

Simplified management

Group travel insurance might make sense if everyone in your group has the same itinerary and travels to the same destination. The main perk of group travel insurance versus separate policies for each person is that it streamlines the purchasing process. You can buy one policy instead of multiple.

But to make it work, your group needs to be organized. This is especially true if group members intend to split the cost of the policy. It's crucial to communicate well with the people in your group and ensure everyone is on the same page. 

Coverage Options Common coverage features

Most group travel insurance policies offer comprehensive coverage, which usually covers common travel issues like cancellations and medical emergencies. 

Here's what comprehensive group travel insurance covers:

Trip cancellation insurance: If you need to cancel your trip, this coverage reimburses you for the cost of travel. Each policy includes a list of cancellation reasons that are covered.

Travel insurance for baggage: This covers the cost of stolen or missing luggage.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance: Covers the cost of transportation from one location to another due to an emergency medical situation.

Travel medical insurance: If you need medical care due to illness or injury while traveling, this part of the policy covers the cost. 

Trip interruption travel insurance: If you have to cut your trip short due to an unforeseen emergency, this helps pay for travel plan changes. 

Trip delay travel insurance: If there are delays to your flight or another aspect of your trip, this covers extra costs associated with the delay. It might include reimbursement for meals or hotel expenses. 

Additional coverage options

You can customize your travel insurance policy with coverage options at an additional premium. These add-ons can be helpful to provide adequate coverage for your group's specific needs. Some examples include:

Adventure and sports coverage: For planned activities that involved increased risk (e.G., hiking, scuba diving, skiing, etc.) 

Special events coverage: For cancellations, interruptions, or other losses that occur during planned events (e.G., weddings, corporate events, excursions, etc.)

Equipment coverage: For damage, loss, or theft of equipment or gear brought on the trip (e.G., sports equipment, tech, etc.)

Pre-existing condition waiver: For those with pre-existing conditions to receive travel medical coverage while traveling

Choosing the right group travel insurance Assessing group needs

Assessing your group's needs can help you choose the right group travel insurance. Some factors to consider include but aren't limited to the duration and destination of your trip, the type of travelers and their needs (including their ages and any pre-existing conditions), planned activities, and the group's budget.

Comparing insurance providers

Depending on the details of your trip, group travel insurance might be cheaper than purchasing individual policies for each traveler. But that is not always the case. As you shop for group travel insurance, there are steps you can take to ensure you get the best deal.

Get multiple quotes

It's smart to compare quotes from several providers. Multiple quotes allow you to compare coverage options and pricing. You can use a travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth or TravelInsurance.Com. Or you can contact providers directly. Once you know the price range for protection, you can select the provider that seems like the best fit. 

Shop early

The best time to buy travel insurance is right after you make your first trip deposit. Your policy kicks in right away, which is helpful if an event occurs that forces you to cancel your trip. Additionally, an early purchase can be necessary to qualify for certain riders, such as pre-existing condition coverage and CFAR travel insurance.

Purchasing and managing group policies Application and enrollment process

You should be prepared to provide the following information about your group when fielding quotes from travel insurance companies. 

Trip dates 

Travelers' names and date of birth

Destination 

Initial trip deposit date 

Cost of trip per traveler (prepaid and nonrefundable expenses)

Your insurance company may ask for additional information, such as pre-existing medical conditions and planned activities. 

Policy management and claims

The coverage you select applies to everyone in the group. Each group member can make individual claims, which is helpful if only one or two people need to make a claim. But if everyone is involved, the entire group can file claims. 

Special Considerations for Group Travel Insurance Tailoring policies to group type

It's important to tailor your insurance policy based on the type of group and the trip to ensure adequate protection. For example, if you're traveling with senior members, you want your policy's medical coverage to include pre-existing conditions. If your trip has physical or outdoor activities, adventure and sports coverage is additional protection worth considering. 

A travel insurance agent can help you identify which coverages are necessary for your group's trip and find a policy that works for your group's budget.

Handling diverse member needs

Handling the diverse needs of group members within a single policy requires careful attention to policy details, including coverage specifics and deductibles. Start by thoroughly reviewing the policy to understand the included coverages and associated deductibles. If certain coverages are unnecessary for your group, ask your insurer whether they can be removed to reduce costs. 

You may want to look for a policy with add-ons or customizable options. This allows you to tailor the coverage to meet the specific needs of different group members. Additionally, consider raising the deductible to lower the premium. However, ensure the deductible amount is affordable for all members in case a claim needs to be filed. This ensures your group has adequate protection while accommodating the diverse financial needs of the group.

Group travel insurance final recommendations and tips Best practices for group leaders

Before your trip, communicate insurance details like coverage inclusions, exclusions, deductibles, and how to file a claim with your group. It also helps to maintain policy documents in case an unexpected event arises. 

You and your group should also establish a contingency plan and save your insurance's emergency hotline contact number for medical emergencies, natural disasters, or other travel disruptions.

Resources for further information

For further information on group travel insurance, check out:

Insurance companies' websites for information about coverage options, exclusions, and getting a quote. 

Travel insurance comparison sites allow users to compare policies from multiple providers at once based on coverage, price, and other factors. Some examples of comparison websites include InsureMyTrip, Squaremouth, and VisitorsCoverage. 

Travel agencies to help you book your trip and pick group travel insurance based on your itinerary. 

Consumer review sites like Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs to read first-hand testimonials by real users on their experience with a company. 

Group travel insurance FAQs

Group travel insurance typically requires a minimum of 10 travelers to qualify for group travel insurance, but this varies by provider.

Yes, many group travel insurance policies offer options for various activities specific to the group's needs and travel itinerary, such as adventure and sports, special events, and equipment coverage. 

Group travel insurance can be more cost-effective per person than individual policies, especially for larger groups. Compare quotes from various insurance providers to get the best deal on the coverages you need. 

If one member  of a group travel insurance plan has an issue, that member can file a claim with the travel insurance company individually. That's why it's important for every member to be familiar with the claims process in case an issue arises. 

A group leader should consider the group's specific needs, planned activities, destination-specific risks, and the group's budget when choosing a travel insurance policy. 

Taylor Milam-Samuel

Freelance Writer

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