How is Augmented Reality Used in Travel & Tourism?

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Augmented reality has become the MAINSTREAM technology in the travel and tourism sector. Whether it’s a travel business or an agency, a hotel, or an airline, AR technology has grown steadily and redefined the entire travel landscape.

At the same time, it creates immersive experiences for customers. In the era of digitalization, it has become challenging for travel companies to stand out in the sea of crowds.

The only possible way to gauge travelers' attention is by developing an Augmented reality app that convinces travelers to go for a virtual tour and travel to expensive destinations at an affordable cost.

An AR-based travel app enables businesses to bridge the gap between imagination and reality by creating immersive experiences for their customers.

In this blog, let’s explore how you can use AR technology for your travel and tourism business.

 

What is AR in travel and tourism? 

 

Augmented reality is an immersive technology that superimposes virtual content in a real-world environment.



To access the virtual content, users just need to point their smartphone camera towards the historical monuments, and they can see the digital information overlaid on physical objects.



Unlike virtual reality, users do not immerse themselves in virtual environments. In AR, visual elements, sound, and GPS are added.



The infusion of AR technology in travel apps makes the customer experience more immersive. It is a game changer for people who want to explore far-off destinations but can’t travel because traveling requires time, money, and effort.

Augmented reality is a boon for travelers as they can explore their destination at home. Alternatively, travel businesses can arrange engaging virtual tours for travel enthusiasts, get more visitors, and boost their revenue.

  

AR helps travel and tourism companies in various ways -  

 

• An AR-based travel app provides additional insights about the specific place or nearby places such as public transport, bus stops, pharmacies, etc. Customers get a 360-degree overview of the place they’re likely to visit.  

• AR helps travel agencies create virtualized environments by using smartphone cameras or sensors towards a place or an object and get real-time information instantly.  

• Gamified elements in real-life environments make the travel experience more engaging and entertaining. 

 

For Instance – Best Western hotels and resorts used this innovative technology to add gamified experiences to their physical surroundings. 

 

Children can interact with digital elements which in this case are Disney characters found on hotel premises. 

 

What are the use cases of AR in the travel and tourism industry? 

  

Unlike other sectors, Augmented reality is shaping the travel industry by enabling businesses to offer immersive experiences to customers.  

 

On the other hand, it guides travelers to reach popular attractions and makes their traveling journey stress-free. 

 

Let’s find out how AR provides immense potential for travel businesses and its customers-  

 

1. AR acts as a travel guide  

 

Today tourists demand interactive experiences, and the integration of AR in travel and tourism makes that possible.

AR travel guide turns those boring places into beautiful destinations, it makes the historical moments live.

Travelers can learn to travel through bustling streets, view 3D models of places, and learn about the history and culture of destinations.

 

An example of a top AR travel app is World Around Me which guides the tourist by pinpointing the camera towards the street and provides real guide directions on how to navigate unfamiliar places. 

  

This app lets travelers explore unknown and unfamiliar places hassle-free by providing information about hospitals, shops, transportation stops, etc. 

  

2. AR tours  

 

Unlike VR, Augmented reality doesn’t allow users to wear a headset to explore the physical environment.  

 

An AR powered virtual tour makes traveling more experiential as travelers can wear AR glasses to get real-time information about the objects and environment.  

 

Planning a destination takes hours and even a few days or months, while AR tours enhance such experience by making travel places accessible.  

 

At the same time, travel businesses can generate streams of revenue through augmented tours. 

 

3. Innovative advertisements  

 

AR-based ads are a game changer for travel companies to influence the buying decisions of travelers. 

 

Through AR advertisements, marketers can bring customers down the funnel as they can visualize properties in their real settings. Thus, they are more likely to get turned into your loyal customers.  

 

A research study from Expedia states that 78% of traveler decisions are based on interactive content. It means that travel companies can get more bookings and sales by running such compelling and engaging ads.  

 

4. Language Translation  

 

Initially, tourists face challenges in translating signs and menus when they visit a foreign land or destination. AR apps in travel and tourism can bridge language differences and help customers understand signs or menus in their native language.  

 

Thus, travelers don’t need any translator guide as they just need to point their smartphone camera at the text and ask language related problems from the app. Thus, translation is available to the customer at their fingertips. 

 

5. AR for museums  

 

Augmented reality brings life to these boring places. AR apps enable tourists to interact with historical sites and this brings immersive experiences.  

 

Imagine when an AR tour is added to the museum, visitors can experience moments when an ancient ship sails in the sea all through 3D models. That just makes the traveler's experience more memorable.  

 

Integration of AR into the Museum overlays digital content on the physical environment. Such immersive technology provides additional details about exhibitions.  

 

Visitors just need AR glasses to access the augmented content such as overlaying historical objects in the real world.  

 

AR makes everything possible. This emerging technology brings more visitors, enhances visitors' engagement, and preserves the cultural heritage. 

 

Wrapping up  

 

Now, you understand that Augmented reality is becoming the HOTTEST trend in the travel industry which can meet the evolving needs of modern customers. 

  

Travel has got wings now as AR broke the traditional old-school norm where individuals were restricted by time and cost boundaries. 

 

Most importantly, AR-powered travel apps provide comforting travel experiences to people by creating a platform where travelers can reach far-off destinations and enjoy personalized city tours. 

 

In a nutshell, Augmented reality benefits various stakeholders involved in the travel industry be it customers, online booking agencies, travel businesses, etc.  

  

  

 

 

MICECON 2024 Hosted Lunch by Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort and Hilton Manila

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The MICECON 2024, which took place from July 10 to 12, was a resounding success, bringing together professionals and enthusiasts from the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. One of the event’s highlights was a lunch hosted by Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort and Hilton Manila, showcasing the finest specialties from their renowned restaurants: Xi, Olive, and Kusina Sea Kitchens.

With the theme “Weaves,” the event skillfully blended culinary creations with the vibrant essence of our cultural heritage, offering a memorable celebration of tradition and flavor. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, members of the CDC Board of Directors, Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) COO Marga Nograles, and officials from Department of Tourism (DOT).

A fashion show featuring the Ayta Mag-Antsi was the highlight of the luncheon, adorned in stunning Pidayit pieces designed by the world-renowned Kapampangan designer Philip D. Torres. According to Torres, Pidayit is inspired by the region’s rich culture and celebrates Pampanga’s joyful spirit.

Guests were treated to an array of global cuisines: Xi offered Chinese dishes, Olive presented Western and international dishes, and Kusina Sea Kitchens showcased Japanese and Indian favorites. Halal dishes were also served to ensure a diverse and inclusive dining experience. 

Hilton’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity was evident in the dining experience.

The celebration continued with a lucky draw that offered attendees the chance to win stays at various Hilton properties across Asia, adding excitement and anticipation to the event. Prizes included stays in prime destinations, providing winners with memorable experiences and reinforcing Hilton’s commitment to hospitality excellence.

“MICECON is all about forging connections as people travel to new destinations and immerse themselves in new cultures. This aligns perfectly with our Hilton Travel with Purpose concept, wherein all our Hilton properties connect with the community and integrate with the destination,”said Denise H.R. Molintas, Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort’s general manager.

MICECON 2024 served not only as a platform for networking and business opportunities but also as a celebration of the vibrant culture and culinary excellence of Pampanga. The event’s success underscores the growing importance of the MICE industry in the region and sets a high standard for future gatherings.

Travel Bloggers and Portable Monitors: A Perfect Match?

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Travel blogging is about bringing the world to a target audience. Travel bloggers do more than take pretty pictures and write flowery words. 

They must ensure their writing captures their audience and includes just the right balance of beautifully edited photos. 

Many travel bloggers use a laptop screen extender to simplify this process. For instance, the Mobile Pixels Trio laptop screen extender allows them to keep their blog open on their laptop monitor while they view photos on the extended screens.

This laptop screen extender fits most screens (13.3” and 14.1”) and includes built-in 1080p full HD displays. The included kickstand makes it easy to set up the extended screens anywhere. And the screens work with macOS, Samsung Dex, Nintendo Switch, and Windows.

Even better, travel bloggers can use the secondary monitors as an extended or mirrored display. They can also switch between landscape and portrait mode.

The Benefits of Laptop Screen Extenders for Travel Bloggers

Some travel bloggers prefer visiting niche locations or writing about unique travel destinations. This means they need to carry their laptop with them wherever they go.

Fortunately, adding a second screen does not add to the weight of their laptop carrier because extended screens are very light.

This laptop screen extender fits most screens (13.3” and 14.1”) and includes built-in 1080p full HD displays. The included kickstand makes it easy to set up the extended screens anywhere. And the screens work with macOS, Samsung Dex, Nintendo Switch, and Windows.

Even better, travel bloggers can use the secondary monitors as an extended or mirrored display. They can also switch between landscape and portrait mode.

Also, they are easy to set up. Travel bloggers who backpack, for instance, can carry their laptop and extra screen, setting it up on the go. With the extra screen, they can view photos and edit their blogs to suit the images simultaneously. Multitasking is also easier for travel photographers who travel cross-country. Photographers also write blogs, so they can use the second screen to capture notes they can use when writing. Moreover, they can add a third screen to scroll through the photos they want to use for the blog.

Food and travel bloggers can use a portable laptop monitor to display recipes or inspirational quotes while filming cooking tutorials. Travel vloggers can also use an extended screen to preview drone footage while working on their vlog at the same time.

Choosing the Right Portable Laptop Screen

If you want to invest in a laptop screen extender, it is crucial to consider all the features and benefits.

For instance, if you want to use the screen for travel blogging, it should be light and compact.

It should fit easily into a laptop bag or backpack. At the same time, you want to be able to edit photos and videos without squinting or zooming in.

Furthermore, consider the screen's connectivity. Most portable monitors connect to laptops via USB-C. This means you do not have to pack extra cables and adapters. If you create several videos, consider getting a laptop screen extender setup that comes with a kickstand. Built-in speakers are also useful if you do not want to work with headphones.

Additional Considerations When Using a Portable Laptop Extender Screen

Remember that you may need a portable power bank if you work several days without access to a charging station. Also, you may need to sacrifice a bigger screen for a lighter one if you do a lot of walking.

One of the biggest considerations is the cost of the screen extender. It will be an upfront investment that will only pay off later. If you have a limited budget, consider budget-friendly options that still give you most of the required features.

If you have a little more to spend, you can splurge on extras like touchscreens and superior displays.

Also, if you have not worked with a screen extender before, it will take some time to get used to. You must check out the different features and arrangements (mirrored or extended) to decide what works best for you.

Laptop Screen Extenders Are an Essential Travel Blogger Tool

Portable monitors or screen extenders can increase productivity and streamline content creation. If you are a travel blogger or writer who prefers efficiency and a workspace that allows for multitasking, a screen extender will work for you.

If you want to travel light but still want the benefits of a second screen, a smaller portable monitor is a good option.

Either way, balance the pros and cons and get the monitor that works best for your blogs, videos, and other content.