Virtual reality (or augmented reality) is considered one of the most revolutionary technologies of the twenty-first century. Businesses might gain from engaging people’s senses with computer-generated pictures, even if the majority of VR applications are entertainment-based. And the hotel industry is no exception; interactive visual experiences showcasing tourist locations and activities that create immersive VR experiences for customers are not the future; they are the present.
The hospitality industry has become increasingly aware of the potential of virtual reality as a marketing tool that offers clients a one-of-a-kind, multisensory experience. This became especially true during the pandemic, when restrictions in many nations remain a nightmare. Through virtual tours of hotel rooms and local attractions, clients have the ability to experience things for themselves rather than simply reading about them. Even if customers have already reserved a room, they can still receive virtual reality-based information that enhances their overall hotel experience.
“It’s probably fair to say that we haven’t discovered the full potential of VR within the hospitality industry yet, but this is sure to change in the coming years.”
Interactive eating and tours of local landmarks are top priorities for homebound travellers. Virtual travel experiences use 360-degree video to recreate many aspects of travel. VR lets you experience flights, arrivals, virtual menus for restaurants, full video overviews of your trip, and neighbouring activities.
Hotel business applications of virtual reality technology include virtual reality hotel tours. These tours can be made available on hotel websites, letting guests or prospective visitors to view their hotel room or other hotel areas prior to booking or arriving.
The establishment of virtual reality booking processes is one of the most intriguing uses of VR technology in recent years. Companies like Amadeus have recently implemented this, allowing users to search for flights, compare hotel prices, and book rooms using a virtual reality headset. It is easy to understand how this VR booking procedure may allow clients to easily explore virtual hotel rooms, experience local attractions, and purchase a room.
Singapore-based Millennium Hotels established the first metaverse virtual hotel, M Social Decentraland. citizenM became the first hotel group to acquire land in Sandbox. BetUVerse will be the first fully licenced metaverse resort, casino, and entertainment complex. Marriott was one of the first hotel brands to sell NFTs. The firm and other hotel brands, like Atlantis, are cooperating with RendezVerse to build digital twins of real-life hotels.
What about hotel owners, though? Incorporating virtual reality solutions (interactive media, virtual tours) into a marketing campaign will increase bookings without question. The hotel will be more desirable, hence increasing website and social media traffic. Additionally, VR leaves a lasting impression! Customers enjoy having control over what they observe, thus by allowing them to personalise their virtual experience, their specific needs will be addressed. And this is how you gain their loyalty by providing valuable value – not only may prospective visitors see the hotel’s distinctive traits firsthand, but they can also interact with the hotel’s technology.