Travel bookings are booming these days. According to a CNBC story, travel industry experts believe the sharp uptick in interest is due to people wanting to “make up for lost time.” Many insiders expect travel in 2022 to be even busier than it was pre-pandemic. And that could be either a benefit or challenge for travelers.
One possible problem in meeting the new demand for travel is going to be staffing. The article stated that 62-million travel-related jobs were lost in 2020 due to pandemic shutdowns – and the industry is struggling to staff up. Many workers switched to other industries and others simply don’t want to take on front-line positions again because of the ongoing pandemic and increasing abuse from customers. As one expert explains it: travel was the first industry hit and will be one of the last to recover.
Of course, the pandemic is bringing about some benefits for travelers as well – especially in terms of technology. It seems the travel industry is adopting automated service using robots and AI (artificial intelligence) to reduce labor costs but still deliver customer service. For instance, many hotels are now using “concierge robots” to help customers make reservations.
Another place you will see the integration of technology is in touch-free services. One company has developed a touch-less elevator that’s sure to please even the biggest germaphobe. With HoverTap you simply point your finger at the number on a digital pad to select your desired floor. It’s already being used in elevators throughout Canada, and the company plans to expand into self-service kiosks in airports, restaurants and hotels, as well as ATMs and airplane seatback entertainment systems.
Are you planning a trip for this year? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or Twitter and let us know if you expect the same travel experience as before the pandemic or are you prepared to face staffing shortages and other obstacles.
