In the wave of technological advancements, the realm of travel and tourism isn’t left untouched. As we make steady strides toward more tech-oriented vacations, one can’t help but wonder – what’s next in line? Smart Holidays with Technology

Fast forward to 2050, and you find yourself older, wiser, and all set for a city break. So, what would this journey entail?

Peering into the Future of Travel

AI-Based Travel Planning

Wave farewell to traditional travel agencies. Future city breaks would be masterminded by chatbots, with ChatGPT already capable of finding flights and hotels and providing tips ranging from ideal destinations to packing suggestions.

However, it’s still a work in progress, as a CNBC reporter found when a suggested trip to a Balinese resort turned out to be in Canada instead. But as technology fine-tunes itself, AI-enhanced search engines will likely become our go-to for holiday bookings.

Streamlined and Eco-Friendly Transit

Dr. Patrick Dixon, Chairman of Global Change, in Easyjet’s 2070: The Future Travel Report, predicts a future where “85% of travellers will commute via electric-powered public transport, including autonomous vehicles.” He also suggests the rise of e-VTOL – electric vertical takeoff and landing air taxis, with numerous companies already investing in these compact vehicles.

Biometric Travel Identification

The era of paper passports is nearing its end. Post checking in your bags with an AI assistant, you’ll pass through biometric security checks, using your face shape, eyes, fingerprints, or heartbeat for identification, and then proceed directly to the aircraft. In 2021, SITA revealed that 3/4th of the world’s airports were investing in biometric solutions, predicting a 60% rise in airline investment in this area by 2024.

Digital Airport Shopping and AI Concierge Smart Holidays with Technology

Istanbul Airport offers a peek into the future of airport shopping with its ‘Magic Mirror’ app, which lets shoppers virtually try on products. For your hotel needs, an AI or robot might greet you, following the footsteps of Henn Na Hotel in Nagasaki, Japan, which employed robots for a variety of tasks back in 2015.

Though the hotel had to lay off half of its robot workforce due to technical issues by 2019, AI’s potential for enhancing services cannot be understated, especially when one imagines the possibilities of bespoke service and tailored activity recommendations.

Innovation in Hospitality and Dining

In-room tech amenities have begun to permeate the hotel industry, with Kimpton Rowan Hotel in Palm Springs teaming up with Josh.ai to offer voice-controlled services, and this is expected to become standard.

Moreover, the breakfast buffet of the future could well involve 3D printing, with guests ordering anything from their digital menu. But that’s not all. Even dining outside could change, with robo-bartenders like BRILLO, capable of mixing drinks and remembering your favorites, waiting to serve you.

Language Barriers and Queueing Transformed

Overcoming language barriers would be as simple as popping in a real-time translating earbud, such as Timekettle WT2 Edge multilingual translation earbuds. As for queues at tourist sites, virtual queues would let you explore freely until it’s your turn to enter. Disney World’s Tron Lightcycle Run rollercoaster leads the way in this regard.

The Virtual Travel Experience Smart Holidays with Technology

Finally, augmented reality travel experiences might become commonplace. According to Accenture, more than half of us are open to trying a VR sightseeing tour or hotel stay. Emily Weiss, senior managing director at Accenture, emphasizes how VR can enhance travel experiences by offering a taste of destinations, landmarks, and hotels before you physically travel.

Nevertheless, nothing replaces the sensation of your feet touching the cool ocean waters, regardless of the degree of technology involved in your journey.