As the world changes, so does our way of life. Even though technology is deeply embedded in our lives, climate issues are more closely monitored, and the cost of living is rising, travelers are changing, looking at the hustle and bustle with an increased interest in special events.
Amidst the uncertainty of today, one can look to the future and wonder what it will be like. Our latest report, Traveler Tribes, aims to explore the preferences and behaviors of the future traveler. The report categorizes its findings into four ‘Traveler Tribes’, groups that are not defined in traditional categories, but which are what excites, worries, and motivates their members.
What emerges from this report, however, is not what is being created for Travel Types, but an understanding of what interests people about the future of travel and what companies can do to meet their needs.
(Faster than a) light beam
43% of travelers are happy that getting to their destination will be faster
By 2033, hyperloops and high-speed rail may be on the agenda. Hotels do not directly benefit from technology, but they can think about “accelerating” goods.
This could be a quick search using mobile technology or biometrics, including facial recognition. Checkout can also be faster if all home purchases are paid for in advance using RFID technology. Service is fast as the hotels use the best management tools and housekeeping.
Don’t look back in anger
36% of travelers are happy to remember trips in vivid ways
Most of us like to sit still and look at pictures and videos on our phones and remember. Over the next decade, video technology will advance significantly and many hotels are experimenting with modern VR and AR applications.
Hoteliers can start by trying to make the trip memorable in the first place. Visual marketing, supported by rich content (perhaps a downloadable VR tour from a dotcom hotel) will ensure that the hotel is right for the guest even before they book. Customizing what’s happening at home can help, while live messages can be created to aid memory (perhaps even with a VR-compatible reel).
Green day
35% of travelers enjoy the opportunity to travel in environmentally friendly ways
Today, the aviation industry is very concerned about the world’s carbon footprint. Hotels are not without criticism, but many are starting to change their operations accordingly. By 2033, every hotel must display environmental information, not just because travelers want to know but because it’s the right thing to do.
Hotels should improve existing methods. If there is an EV station on site, can guests make reservations in advance? Hotels will need renewable energy contracts, while water and food waste management should be as important to the environment as cost considerations. Hotels that claim to be eco-friendly need to verify their practices and their partners as well.
OK computer
34% of travelers enjoy technology to reduce travel hassles
By 2033, travelers will be more literate than today and will expect technology to play a bigger role in diagnosing and solving problems.
Advanced predictive technology is being developed that will alert facility managers in advance of potential problems with air conditioners, elevators, or kitchen appliances.
Hotels whose PMS and CRS systems and services are compatible can also solve any issues related to planned maintenance – if the gym or rooftop jacuzzi is closed for maintenance, the reservation system should know this and inform the guest.
Money, money, money
34% of travelers enjoy a variety of payment options that make travel more affordable
Value for money purchases will continue to be part of the decision making process in 2033, as travelers pay for travel with any purchase price.
“Buy now pay later” The options and sections on the hotel website can add up to a lot of money. All hotels must accept by 2033 to accept major credit cards and be ready to accept cryptocurrencies and any other payment method that is based on the evolution of technology. Hotels should help members of the loyalty program to get points from other organizations and make it easy to redeem them.
Although 2033 is a long way off, looking ahead helps travel providers understand what needs to be done today to meet the needs of future travelers. Understanding the needs and desires of travelers is essential for businesses that are competitive and constantly changing. By leveraging innovation and predicting market trends, companies will be better equipped to establish customer loyalty, drive repeat business, and ultimately remain relevant for years to come.
About Amadeus
Amadeus promotes personalized and authentic travel experiences. Our solutions are designed to enrich every aspect of the travel experience and help hospitality companies acquire, serve, and retain guests by profitably driving their interests and turning them into loyal fans.
Backed by more than 30 years of experience, we develop open source, cutting-edge software to deliver reliable, trustworthy and reliable systems to our customers. With experts in 175+ countries, we have a deep understanding of the hospitality industry and a passion for partnering with our hotels to create unforgettable guest experiences.
To learn more about Amadeus, visit www.amadeus-hospitality.com.
Follow us on: Facebook, TwitterLinkedIn, and Instagram.
Alison Guillot
Amadeus
