Robots and artificial intelligence seduce frequent travelers

Artificial intelligence or machine learning is changing the way we search, book and experience travel. As technology-based services mature and facilitate personal assistance, the user experience increases. A Booking.com survey identifies the solutions most valued by frequent travelers.

The booking portal's study shows that the majority of business travelers (75%) believe that technology makes it easier to plan and book accommodation and business travel compared to traditional travel agents.  

Although there is still some way to go in terms of improving the speed, the ease and the personalization of all aspects of the user experience, some technologies are set to transform the world of business travel: 

Personal assistants.
Nearly one-third (29%) of global travelers say they are comfortable with having a computer plan their next trip using historical data from their previous itineraries. Half (50%) do not have a preference between a real person or a computer, as long as they receive answers to their questions.

Chat platforms and chatbots powered by artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming increasingly advanced, and the more they learn, the more they can handle. These systems are able to gather information about the likes and dislikes of business travelers, and give personalized recommendations.

Robots.
AI-powered robots can already handle simple face-to-face interactions and transactions with customers. At Geneva airport, for example, there are self-service terminals for checking in and issuing boarding passes. In this way, airport staff can handle more complex procedures or interactions.

In the hotel sector, concierge services are becoming increasingly automated so that some tasks are already being done by robots. At the M Social Hotel in Singapore, they use a robot named Aura for room service and to make other deliveries to hotel guests. The robot is designed to navigate the corridors, clear obstacles, use the elevator properly and even alert guests when they arrive at their room. These butler robots can help business travelers make efficient use of their time while receiving deliveries, special requests and personal touches right at their door.

Mobile technology.
The door is open to new experiences: thanks to advances in mobile technology, business travel is becoming increasingly easy and bookable on the go. Nearly every aspect of searching, booking and making changes to flights and hotels can be done directly from a mobile device.

Mobile is also becoming the gateway to enhanced, personalized experiences for travelers, helping them discover and explore the destinations they are going to, according to their personal and professional tastes and preferences.

According to the Booking.com Business study, a quarter (24%) of professionals say they tend to spend time on leisure and non-work related activities on their business trips.