Travel Like a Pro and Make Your Trip Stress-Free with Travel Technology!

Navigating through the maze of directions and information can be a daunting task when traveling. However, that need not be the case!

With travel technology, you can now traverse the chaos and make your journey a breeze.

Travel technology refers to the use of new digital tools and platforms to enhance travel experiences. These include apps, websites, booking systems, and high-tech features like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR).

Everything is now possible with travel technology. From seamless booking experience to contactless delivery, and virtual queues, technology is continuously revolutionizing how we travel.

Here are some travel technology evolutions you need to know about!

1. Hotel apps that enable travelers to do more than just book accommodations.

   Many large hotel chains have applications that allow users to book rooms, check in and out, and even communicate with hotel staff.

   However, the hotel industry landscape evolved dramatically. Nowadays, you can do more than just reservations in those hotel applications.

   For instance, some hotel applications allow users to manage reservations, book connecting rooms, and pick their preferred room based on the room type, location, and view. An example of this is Hilton’s Hilton Honors app.

   Some hotels also added mobile concierge services on its apps. For example, in 2022, IHG Hotels & Resort added on its IHG mobile app the mobile concierge functionality, offering guests recommendations for nearby attractions, restaurants, and activities.

2. Unlock doors with digital room keys.

   Long gone are the traditional keys and keycards as digital room keys become more popular in the hospitality industry.

   Digital room keys are virtual keys that allow guests to unlock their hotel room doors using their mobile devices, such as smartphones or smartwatches.

   Some hotel applications now let its users have their smartphones and smart devices as digital room keys.

   A great example is the Marriott Bonvoy Hotel app by Marriott Hotels. In 2020, Marriott added the digital room key feature in the app, allowing users to open their rooms, parking garage doors, fitness center, and gain access to the hotel’s pool using a mobile key.

   In 2021, Hyatt Hotels also offered digital room keys that can be accessed by iOS users through their Apple Wallet for seamless entry to guest rooms, fitness areas, and other common areas at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts.

3. Delivery apps take over room service.

   Major hotel chains are leveraging delivery apps to offer guests a wider variety of food options, catering to different tastes and preferences during their stays.

   An example of this is Accor Hotel’s Kitch-in, a one-stop restaurant platform where guests can choose a diverse array of dining options. This platform was launched by the hotel chain in 2022, together with other delivery platforms such as Deliveroo to make the delivery process possible.

   Through “Kitch-in,” guests staying at Accor can order food from local restaurants and have it delivered to their rooms or hotel lobby.

4. Virtual queue on the rise.

   Say goodbye to slow lines since many theme parks around the world have implemented virtual queue systems for popular attractions!

   A virtual queue is a system that allows customers to join a queue or line for a service or attraction without physically waiting in line.

   For example, in October 2021, Disney introduced Disney Genie+, which allows users to use the “Lightning Lane” entrances at selected attractions and experiences to cut down waiting time.

   Similarly, some Universal Studios locations have implemented Universal's Virtual Line since 2017 that allows visitors to reserve ride times in advance, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall park experience.

5. Robots serving in airports.

   Some airports have introduced robotic delivery services to bring food and beverages directly to passengers.

   Sounds convenient, right?

   In 2021, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) launched its robotic delivery service “NomNom” for LAXOrderNow.com.

   “NomNom” is a semi-autonomous cargo robot that works with humans to fulfill in-airport orders and delivery services at LAX airport.

   Through “NomNom,” passengers can order food from LAX restaurants and have it delivered to them directly, instead of going to the store and picking up the food themselves.

These are just the tip of the travel technology iceberg. There are plenty more to explore and use during your travels. Just figure out what you need and what suits you best!

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Ultimately, traveling has become much easier with advancements in technology.

As we continue to embrace the benefits of travel technology, it's essential to stay informed about the latest evolutions in the field. By integrating these advancements into our travel plans, we can make our journeys smoother and safer.

So, whether you're embarking on a solo adventure or planning a family vacation, take advantage of travel technology to enhance your experiences!