Robots are no longer relegated to the realm of science fiction. These mechanical marvels have seamlessly integrated themselves into the travel industry, changing the way we experience, manage, and navigate the world. From robot concierges to luggage-toting automatons, this blog delves into the evolving world of robots in the travel and tourism sector as robotics is quickly gaining recognition due to shifting customer preferences. The travel industry, in particular, stands to benefit as robots increase operational efficiency by enhancing customer service and guest experience.

Robots in the travel industry are the ‘new normal’

A study conducted by GlobalData in 2021 indicated that more businesses might engage robots to minimize long-term expenses and adapt to the changing demands of consumers. Robots come with several pivotal advantages besides generating enthusiasm, publicity for the company, and an enhancement of the brand image. With travelers still concerned about their safety in one way or another, robots help allay their anxieties and fears while lowering labor costs for companies. You can even say that the global pandemic gave rise to the age of robotics in the travel sector.

Top 6 ways robots are changing the face of travel/tourism sector

Simply put, a robot is a device that carries out certain functions on command automatically and precisely. Even manual work is carried out besides tasks involving text or speech. For the travel industry, AI is the most interesting robot-related tech that has been extremely advantageous. It speeds up machine learning and can carry out complex activities that conventionally require human intervention. Typically, the tech involves speech recognition, understanding human interactions, displaying logic and reasoning, and problem-solving.

• Responding to customer queries

  In the travel sector, robotic technology is gaining popularity quickly as customer habits slowly take a turn towards self-service, transparency, and speed of outcome. For instance, you can make them available 24/7 for immediate responses to common queries – a feat difficult for human workers. The strategy also reduces queue sizes.

• Front desk assistance

  Other fascinating uses include employing robots to operate the front desk at client information stations, where the tech uses facial and speech recognition to provide salient services to clients. The world’s first robot-staffed hotel is in Japan.

• Concierge service

  Incidentally, on the same lines, robots can also act as concierges that can respond to queries employing speech recognition technology. Additionally, it gains learning; the more it is utilized, the better it gets at responding.

• The suitcase

  One of the most innovative uses of robotic tech in travel is the suitcase, which removes the hassle of carrying and pulling along during airport sojourns. Using collision detection technology, the suitcase has the ability to follow its owner independently while turning 360 degrees where required.

• Airport security

  Security bots are set up at airports to improve security and even assist human staff. It helps in the detection of concealed armaments and other hidden items that are not allowed on flights.

• Filler tasks

  Travel agencies can deploy robots to keep customers entertained while they wait during busy times. Thus, information gathering about what customers need becomes extremely easy. Bots can also be used for hotel check-in and check-out processes to provide valuable customer service.

Why are robots important in tourism

Undoubtedly, robots hasten processes, deliver high-quality outputs, and, most importantly, cut operational expenses. We can rely on them to work safely and productively around the clock with no breaks or vacations. Additionally, robots come with a crucial attribute loved by most in the industry - automation. Enhanced customer experiences and allowing human elements to focus on other tasks while taking over redundant ones are just a few key benefits of robots in the travel and tourism sector.