Today, hotels offer much more than a place to rest while on the move. Holiday-makers and business travellers are now looking for hotels that offer the latest gadgets and hi tech amenities to make their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. As a result, hotels are beginning to up their game by investing in state of the art technology in every room, with the aim of enhancing the customer’s overall experience.
Here are some of the most sophisticated facilities that the tech-savvy traveller will be prioritising when booking a hotel:
1. Wi-fi
In today’s digitally-driven world, wi-fi really is a necessity for hotels. A reliable internet connection offers guests quick and easy access to the information they need, without having to venture down to the reception desk. Guests will be able to keep in touch with friends and family, research the local area and book transport services – all from the comfort of their own room. For business travellers, being able to access work remotely and stay connected with colleagues and clients while out of the office will often be a deciding factor when choosing a hotel.
Now, many hotels are providing Wi-fi CRM: a service that allows users to access the most useful information based on their local area. Thanks to companies like Air Angel, many hotels now provide a personalised and relevant internet experience for their guests.
2. Entertainment systems
Hotels are now cottoning on to the fact that short-stay guests and weary travellers are spending the majority of their time in the hotel room. Holiday makers are now looking beyond the basics and searching for home-from-home tech comforts with that added ‘wow’ factor.
Rooms are now being kitted out with HD TVs complete with blu-ray movies and surround sound speaker systems, making for a perfect evening spent relaxing in the hotel. Web connected media hubs and docking stations now allow guests to personalise their experience with video and music streaming from their very own smartphones, laptops or tablets.
3. Automated check in/out
Automated check-in is rapidly becoming a ‘must have’ facility for hotels, allowing guests to check in manually without having to wait at the reception desk to receive their room key. Some hotels utilise self-serve touchscreen kiosks, whereas others use iPad check in services, both with the aim of providing a hassle-free arrival and departure process.
Replacing room keys with smartphone apps is also becoming a popular trend. Upon arrival, guests are provided with an iPhone or sent a digital room key to their personal smartphone, which can then be used to unlock their room using near field communication technology. The door is then locked automatically after departure and check out can be completed by holding the phone next to a sensor. Not only does this significantly reduce waiting times, it can also increase security and save having to carry around a set of keys at all times.
4. Tech-savvy conference rooms
To cater for business travellers, hotel conference rooms are now utilising leading-edge gadgetry, including the latest audio visual technology such as HD display screens and advanced projectors. For a touch of luxury, some conference rooms are now equipped with the latest touchscreen remote control devices for temperature control and lighting to satisfy even the most tech-savvy user’s needs. All this enables you to press on with hassle free presentations, meetings and video conferences. Thanks to pioneering technology, international business connectivity is easier than ever.
5. Tablet, iphone and e-book loans
Forget desktops in the lobby, internet cafes or business centres, many of the most cutting-edge hotels around the world are now offering visitors free use of tablets, smartphones and e-books for the duration of their stay. No need to lug your personal laptop on holiday with you, why not save space in your suitcase and make use of the hotel’s complimentary internet devices?
From the comfort of your own room, you can use your free smartphone or tablet to order movies, find out more about the hotel’s services, research the local area, order room service, or call upon housekeeping – all with the touch of a button.
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