New technologies are actively changing the tourism industry.
We choose our travel destinations on the internet, book accommodation online, follow the tips from various travel apps and even continue to use these technologies when we get home.
It is hard to pinpoint the exact moment when we dropped old-fashioned travel agencies in favor of new technologies, but it is clear that the internet-savvy millennials are behind this trend.
Finding a new place to visit is super easy, thanks to the availability of social media and travel blogs.
Not to forget that low-cost airlines also play a role because not everyone have an endless travel budget.
With that said, let’s examine the technology that runs the travel industry right now and take a closer look at all the advantages, as well as disadvantages.
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What is Travel Technology?
From various travel apps to big data and virtual reality, the tourism industry is completely reinventing itself as we speak.
The goal is to reduce human labor and let the technology do all the heavy lifting.
It is the best way to upgrade all aspects of tourism.
The introduction of travel technology was necessary, but the pandemic probably sped things up a bit.
Online travel agencies had to come up with clever solutions, so there are some new and unexpected additions to the world of travel technology.
Potential Risks
Even though technology improves the way we travel, we still face the old risks – online security.
These technologies need the internet to function properly.
Unfortunately, this could leave travelers in a vulnerable place.
Your online privacy should be the number one concern while traveling.
That’s why you need to protect your devices with security apps like VPN and antivirus.
A VPN is highly recommended for frequent travelers.
We all tend to use open Wi-Fi networks on the move, and these are notoriously unsecured.
Since VPN reroutes your traffic through a secure remote server, your personal information will stay hidden from any third parties lurking around the network.
Notable Travel Technology Trends
5G Networks
5G networks are the backbone of most travel technology trends we have right now.
Faster download speeds can give a boost to virtual reality (VR).
Not to forget that 5G networks will make communication between several smart devices way faster.
Travelers are dependent on a reliable connection, especially if they do their work remotely.
5G networks will help out, but you still need to keep your online privacy at the highest level.
Don’t forget to install and use a VPN and good antivirus software.
Virtual Assistants for Hotels
Virtual assistants are essential in our everyday lives.
We create shopping lists, switch songs, or make a quick Google search with the help of Siri or Alexa.
Hotels are starting to recognize the usefulness of virtual assistants and are testing them out as we speak.
The overall customer experience should improve with the help of virtual assistants.
The AI is programmed to perform various actions for guests in the hotel, making the stay more enjoyable.
Not to forget that the hotel staff could focus on other things as virtual assistant takes over some of their regular tasks.
Virtual Reality Tours
The lockdown has been quite emotional for most of us, but many people found a way to satisfy their wanderlust even then.
Virtual reality tours exploded in the first part of 2020.
The tourism industry did slow down during that period, but the possibility of these VR tours revived the interest.
Not everyone has the means to travel all around the globe, and VR tours are a great solution.
Some apps could take you to Paris in an instant.
Also, walking on the Great Wall of China has never been easier.
A Smartphone
Finally, you could plan your entire trip on your smartphone.
Making a hotel reservation or booking a flight can be done from your couch, without leaving your home to go to the nearest travel agency.
The perfect example is Ryanair’s app that offers deals, flight information, boarding passes, and so much more.
Your phone could also be your tour guide, telling you where to find the best food and helping navigate your destination.
It is such a versatile tool that could completely change the way we travel.
After all, your phone will be with you all the time, so why not use it?
