30 Jan
2018

Virtual reality and mobile solutions for travel bookings

Clare de Bono, Director of Product and Innovation, Amadeus UK & Ireland, an ABTA Partner, looks into emerging technologies shaping travel bookings of the future. Meet them at the Travel Technology Show in February.

There’s a couple of things in life that clearly mark the passage of time: kids growing up and evolving technology. How quickly that latest smartphone is replaced by a bigger, better, shinier one. But this presents a challenge – and I don’t just mean in recognising the kids who are now taller than you are. The challenge is in understanding where to invest time, effort and funds into new technology; technology that has a future.

Because Amadeus works closely with leisure and business travel agents as well as key associations like ABTA, we understand the challenges facing the industry and where the right technology decision can make all the difference to growing revenues and keeping customers happy. That’s why we’re excited to be taking part in Travel Technology Europe on 21-22 February at London’s Kensington Olympia. It’s a great opportunity to see what’s happening in technology that’s relevant to travel and boost your knowledge and hands-on experience in areas you may have only just read about until now.

Sometimes people wonder if they can justify 2 days out of the office. But the real question is: can you afford not to? For example, the recent ABTA Holiday Habits 2017 report showed that online bookings via mobile jumped from 13 to 20 per cent last year (37 per cent for 18-24 year olds). That begs the question – is your mobile offering keeping pace? The experts will help you benchmark your strategy against industry best practice and understand the risks and rewards.

Then there are the nascent technologies such as Virtual Reality. How are they beginning to be used in travel? What role does this and other emerging technologies like voice, AI and chatbots have to play in the retail travel agency of the future? There are lots of questions. But there are lots of answers to be found when you attend an event with so many technology providers under one roof.

Amadeus will be talking about its latest mobile solutions and demonstrating Virtual Reality for making travel bookings. We’re like kids in a candy store when it comes to Travel Technology Europe. So come along and learn, touch and explore the possibilities for your business. Talk to us and you’ll understand why we’re so excited to be shaping the future of travel with you.  

Visit ABTA at the Business Travel Show on 21-22 February on stand B2304.