Think of how you would feel arriving at a resort after a long trip. You’re tired and just want to relax. But first, you must wait in a long line to check in. Then, you must lug your heavy bags to your room, which is located on the opposite side of the resort. And when you finally get settled in, you realize the Wi-Fi is spotty, and you cannot get any work done.
Now, imagine a different scenario. You arrive at the resort and use your smartphone to check in. Your digital key is delivered to your phone, and you bypass the front desk altogether. A friendly robot greets you and offers to take your luggage to your room. When you enter your room, you find a personalized welcome message on the TV screen and a tablet that controls everything from the temperature to the lighting. You connect to the high-speed Wi-Fi and easily finish some work while enjoying the view from your balcony. Surely, the second scenario sounds more appealing.
Technology is transforming the hospitality industry, and resorts are using it in innovative ways to enhance the guest experience. Let’s consider four specific ways resorts can leverage technology to raise guest satisfaction and create unforgettable vacations.
1. Streamline the Check-In Process
No one likes waiting in line, especially after a long time traveling. Resorts can use technology to streamline the check-in process and eliminate unnecessary waiting times. Mobile check-in, digital keys, and self-service kiosks are just a few examples of how technology can make the arrival experience smoother and more efficient.
2. Personalize the Guest Experience
Technology can help resorts gather data about their guests’ preferences and use that information to personalize their experience. This could include anything from offering customized room amenities to suggesting activities and dining options based on their interests.
Consider how cool it would be if a resort uses data from your social media profiles to learn about your hobbies and interests. Upon arrival, you find a welcome basket in your room with items related to your favorite activities, such as hiking gear or art supplies. This personal touch can make a big difference in how welcome and valued a guest feels.
3. Enhance Communication and Service
Technology can facilitate effortless communication between guests and staff. Resorts can use chatbots, messaging apps, and in-room tablets to provide instant support, answer questions, and fulfill requests. This ensures that guests receive quick assistance whenever they need it.
For instance, a guest could use an in-room tablet to order room service, book a spa appointment, or report a maintenance issue. The request would be instantly routed to the appropriate department, and this would allow for a quick and efficient response.
4. Offer Interactive Experiences
Technology can create interactive experiences that engage guests and enhance their enjoyment. This could include virtual reality tours of the resort, interactive maps, and personalized recommendations for activities and attractions.
Imagine a resort that offers a virtual reality experience that allows guests to explore the local area, try different activities, or even preview different room types before making a reservation. This can create a sense of excitement and anticipation and add value to the guest experience.
Resorts can use technology to make guests happier and create awesome vacations. As technology gets even better, we can expect exciting new ways that will totally change how resorts work and what it’s like to be a guest.
