The Indian culture encourages people to show utmost respect and care to their guests, treating them as honoured and divine beings. We believe that serving guests with love and respect is a virtuous and noble act. That act will however, need the hospitality industry to grow many more times. That a recent report by the Hotel Association of India suggesting a significant growth with $1,504 billion adding to GDP by 2047, up from $65 billion last year may be the good part. Inadequate use of technology to achieve it, is the bad part.
No growth is natural except for human beings. Hotel Industry needs promoting. That requires creativity and innovation to attract and retain customers. It needs planning and execution. Use of technology has an unambiguous role in it. Whether it is for offering unique travel experiences or concierge services, or promotion of eco-friendly travel options and accommodations or creation of innovative travel accessories or gadgets, technology is the key. At a time when the industry is trying to expand, don’t we need creative and innovative approaches to capture the imagination of potential travellers?
The world is changing around us. Technology is driving that change. However, what technology makes a difference to the hospitality industry needs to be understood. Can we create an immersive experience, so that the guests make informed decisions? For a start, can we offer Augmented Reality (AR) guided tours of hotels and resorts, allowing potential guests to explore rooms, amenities, and the surrounding areas before booking? Even implementing Virtual Reality (VR) concierge services that provide virtual assistance and recommendations for local attractions, dining options, and activities adds great value. Embracing eco-friendly initiatives, such as using renewable energy, reducing plastic waste, and sourcing locally-produced food and products will attract eco-conscious travellers.
Collaborating with local artists and cultural institutions to showcase art installations, performances, or exhibitions within the hotel, adds cultural value and attracts art enthusiasts. It is said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Can we hence, enhance the culinary experiences? If hosting unique dining events, such as chef’s tables, farm-to-table dinners, or themed culinary weekends is the main course, highlighting the local cuisine and collaborating with renowned chefs for special occasions will be the dessert. Culinary tourism, such as cooking classes, street food tours, and visits to local markets too is a win-win. What else can be done? Offering wellness retreats that focus on mental and physical well-being with Yoga and meditation sessions, spa treatments, and healthy dining options can be the proverbial icing on the cake.
Many 5-star hotels use smart technology in the rooms today. Though they have controlled lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems, they are hardware driven. A little innovation allows the same through mobile apps. Mobile Apps can also use guest data to provide personalized experiences, send welcome messages, offer tailored recommendations, or provide special amenities.
Offering romantic Valentine’s Day packages or winter wonderland experiences during the holiday season are all innovations that people like. Attracting remote workers and event planners by offering virtual meeting and event packages with state-of-the-art technology and high-speed internet connectivity will be awesome.
Building online communities is a great idea. That however, will need interactive social media campaigns that encourage guests to share their experiences through user-generated content, running contests, featuring guest posts, and using creative hashtags. Hosting interactive webinars featuring local experts, chefs, or travel influencers who can provide insights into a destination’s culture, and cuisine, helps educate and inspire potential travellers. Fostering connections with the local community by organizing events, workshops, or partnerships with nearby businesses helps guests experience the destination authentically.
If the above are guest enabling events, there are even more. Developing user-friendly and visually appealing booking platforms, incorporating AI chatbots for instant customer support, simplify the reservation process. Designing adventure packages that include outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or wildlife safaris, tailored to the hotel’s location and surroundings will be value add. Promoting eco-friendly and sustainable travel options, such as carbon offset programs, responsible wildlife tours, and sustainable accommodation choices will all promote hospitality sector.
Hospitality industry is innovating. The marketing strategies must be responsible. That said, innovative ideas should align with a hotel’s brand identity and cater to the preferences of a target audience. Regular feedback and adapting to changes on the fly, are the differentiators.