Expanding into international markets presents massive opportunities but can prove to be a challenging journey for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Asia Pacific, especially in the travel industry. While the potential for growth is there, cross-border payments can present significant obstacles - high fees, delays and regulatory complexities.
For Albressa Travel, a Philippines-based travel agency, these challenges became an opportunity for innovation, working in strategic partnership with Payoneer.
Founded in 2017, Albressa Travel connects global travelers with the Philippines' vibrant culture and natural beauty while helping Filipino adventurers explore destinations worldwide. With a strong focus on digital transformation, the agency has embraced cutting-edge technology to expand its footprint and meet growing international demand.
Central to its success is its partnership with Payoneer, which works with SMBs in the travel industry to effectively manage payments when expanding overseas.
Rising trends in international travel for 2025
Several key trends are shaping the travel industry in the Philippines and beyond.
Sustainability continues to be a priority, with travelers seeking eco-friendly experiences and businesses striving to reduce their carbon footprint.
Multigenerational travel is gaining popularity, with families exploring destinations that cater to a wide range of ages and interests.
And "workcation" travel, where professionals combine remote work with leisure, is on the rise, fueled by the increasing adoption of flexible work arrangements.
These trends present significant opportunities for travel companies to innovate and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
Navigating cross-border challenges
For SMBs in the travel industry expanding into global markets comes with a unique set of obstacles:
High costs and fees: Cross-border transactions often involve steep foreign exchange (FX) costs and hidden fees, cutting into profit margins.Payment delays: Sending and receiving international payments can take several days, disrupting cash flow and impacting day-to-day operations.Regulatory complexity: APAC businesses must navigate diverse and ever-changing regulatory frameworks that vary by country, making compliance a constant challenge.Secure payments: Cybersecurity risks loom large as digital transformation accelerates, creating a need for robust systems to ensure safe transactions.
These challenges can hinder the ability of businesses in the travel sector to scale internationally.
Finding the right payment solution provider
Payoneer's platform has been instrumental in Albressa Travel's ability to expand its global presence. The platform supports payments in over 190 countries and 70 currencies. Features like multi-currency accounts, competitive exchange rates and local receiving accounts in major currencies streamline operations, enabling SMBs to focus on growth.
For Albressa Travel, this partnership has eliminated the complexities of managing international payments.
"Payoneer's seamless technology allows us to handle cross-border transactions with ease," said Aleth Agulto, CEO of Albressa Travel. "Their platform has been a game-changer, ensuring our financial operations run smoothly and allowing us to serve our clients better."
Payoneer also offers solutions that align closely with the needs of growing businesses in APAC:
Leveraging payments to accelerate growth: Faster, more efficient payment systems help businesses improve cash flow and reinvest in expansion.Seizing global growth opportunities: With simplified payment processes, SMBs can focus on identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in new markets.Overcoming challenges: Payoneer's expertise and tools help businesses navigate the most daunting cross-border challenges, from regulatory compliance to secure payment processing.
By providing innovative and cost-effective payment solutions, Payoneer empowers travel businesses to turn obstacles into opportunities.
Expanding international reach
Albressa Travel's journey exemplifies how digital tools and strategic partnerships can drive growth. By integrating Payoneer's payment solutions, the agency has strengthened its ability to manage transactions with clients across the globe, solidifying its position as a leader in Philippine tourism. The partnership has allowed Albressa Travel to focus on its core mission: delivering unforgettable travel experiences.
"Payoneer's mission is to help companies across APAC to expand their cross-border business by eliminating payment obstacles and enable growth in overseas markets," said Nagesh Devata, senior vice president APAC at Payoneer. "We provide businesses with the tools to manage payments efficiently, seize growth opportunities in new markets and focus on delivering exceptional services to their customers."
Albressa's embrace of digital transformation has also positioned it to capitalize on emerging trends in international travel. Sustainability, multigenerational travel, and workcations are shaping the industry in 2025, creating opportunities for agencies to innovate and adapt. Albressa Travel is actively leveraging these trends to cater to the evolving preferences of modern travelers.
"With the growth of Philippine tourism, we've solidified our international presence," Agulto said. "Technology has enabled us to bring more Filipinos, balikbayans and travelers from all over the world to discover the Philippines."
Partnering with Payoneer for cross-border success
For APAC-based businesses looking to expand globally, Albressa Travel's partnership with Payoneer offers valuable lessons. By addressing cross-border payment challenges head-on, the agency has turned potential roadblocks into accelerators of success.
Supporting SMBs like Albressa Travel is part of Payoneer's broader mission to empower businesses in APAC and beyond. Payoneer is dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of cross-border payments so they can seize opportunities, expand into new markets and thrive in the global economy.
Albressa Travel's story is one of innovation, resilience and collaboration. Through its partnership with Payoneer, the agency has navigated the challenges of cross-border payments and positioned itself for growth in the international travel industry in 2025 and beyond.