Technological transformation of travel and tourism leads to pioneering innovations and sustainable solutions

Glimpse into the future of travel technology and sustainable practices, with a focus on Vietnam’s thriving tourism sector and Traveloka’s sustainability initiatives

Innovation within the travel and tourism industry takes many forms, all aimed at enhancing the overall traveller experience. My Smart Journey, a prominent tourism platform, highlights how the sector is dedicated to pioneering innovations that promise to redefine future travel. This innovation wave is distinctly marked by the prominent role that technology now plays, seamlessly integrating into various aspects of the industry, from hotel rooms to room service and booking platforms. 

The importance of such innovation is underscored by the economic significance of tourism. Employing technology-driven strategies not only bolsters efficiency and reduces operational costs but also ensures that businesses remain competitive in a dynamic and rapidly evolving marketplace.

Travel technology, a pivotal component of this innovation, is empowering travellers with mobile apps that provide features like booking accommodations and obtaining boarding passes. These apps grant travellers greater independence and control over their experiences while also streamlining operational processes, freeing up employees to focus on other critical tasks. Furthermore, technology like Near Field Communication (NFC) is revolutionising the industry by personalising the traveller experience and optimising efficiency – think virtual room keys in hotels, for instance.

Related: What 2023 has in store for travellers

An example lies in Vietnam’s tourism sector as it stands on the cusp of positive growth as the nation’s economy rebounds from the pandemic’s impacts. The Investor predicts an array of trends, including a surge in domestic and outbound travel among Vietnamese citizens, and the emergence of innovative tourism categories like green, sustainable, and digital tourism. In this transformation, digitalization and online booking platforms are set to play pivotal roles in shaping the industry’s future. 

Traveloka is an example of an innovation committed to fostering sustainable tourism in Vietnam through partnerships with the government and local stakeholders. Vietnam’s vast potential lies in showcasing its rich cultural heritage and offering sustainable, eco-friendly tourism experiences. Encouragingly, the revival of Vietnam’s tourism sector, coupled with a noticeable increase in Chinese tourists, hints at promising signs of growth and burgeoning interest from other markets like Thailand, Indonesia, and India.

Caesar Indra, President of Traveloka, offered insights into the post-pandemic state of tourism in Southeast Asia during an interview with Business Today. Travellers in this region are increasingly embracing sustainability as a cornerstone of their travel plans. Eco-friendly accommodations and activities have risen in popularity, reflecting a growing eco-conscious sentiment. Traveloka, acknowledging this shift, has aligned itself with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to promote sustainable practices among its hotel partners in countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Caesar Indra foresees a sustained emphasis on sustainability in the Southeast Asian travel industry, with both businesses and consumers wholeheartedly embracing eco-friendly practices.

The Property Report editors wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].