Expedia has announced it has acquired Travelocity from Sabre Corporation for $280 million in cash. The acquisition follows the 2013 strategic marketing agreement between Expedia and Travelocity under which Expedia has powered the technology platforms for Travelocity’s US and Canadian websites.

MasterCard Inc. said it would allow its cards issued in the United States to be used in Cuba, effective March 1. The United States announced sweeping new rules this month that will significantly ease sanctions on Cuba, opening up the  island to expanded U.S. travel, trade and financial activities.

The Cayman Islands has tapped a Jacksonville, Fla.-based firm to provide design and construction consultancy services for the planned expansion of Owen Roberts International Airport.

The Expedia group, one of the world’s largest online travel companies, has announced the opening of offices in Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, the company’s first local offices in the Dominican Republic. Expedia local market managers provide valuable market insight to hotel partners.