Search…

Click and Done!! Hotel Interactions Gone Digital

With COVID-19 halting the day-to-day life of billions of people worldwide, the reliance on digital technology is increasing. We have limitless options, such as Skype, Zoom, media streaming, social media, or digital apps, to transfer information from one another. Like any other industry, hospitality too wasn’t immune to the pandemic.

While face-to-face interactions ruled the hospitality industry, relying on those methods amidst growing virus concerns was not something that the industry could afford anymore. So, adopting new measures to adjust to the “new normal” became a necessity. Precisely why the industry saw a change in their traditional business operating model.

Digitalization flourished, which enabled travelers to control their experiences and room environments without compromising their security. Here’s how digital technology is redefining the hotel experience now.

IoTs Transforming Experiences With Smart Hotel Rooms

The level of technology adoption is increasing, so customers expect a seamless experience in every business today. It’s no different when it comes to the hotel industry too. Guests expect to get the full experience and value. Using a smart room enables guests to control their room environment using Hospitality Apps. These apps turn out to be virtual remote control where guests can simply snap a QR code and get connected.

The same app helps guests control TV, temperature, lights, curtains, and a lot more. And that too, without any worries about contracting the virus.

Artificial intelligence Improving Guest Experience

AI solutions with ML algorithms are providing businesses to improve their decision-making abilities. For instance, using chatbots to help guests at every step is resulting in better reviews. Hotel chatbots are helping hotel businesses to create personalized experiences. Plus, guests can quickly get their queries answered without hindering their stay.

Additionally, the same technology helps the hotel industry streamline their booking process and related workflows without missing out on important details. No last-minute cancellations from providers anymore!!

Mobile Applications Driving Next-generation Hotel Experience

With the virus surviving on surfaces for approximately 72 hours, using traditional printed menus or means might be risky. But with technology, guests can easily use their own handheld devices to view their menus and order as per their convenience. It is a perfect solution to give your guests to enjoy their favorite meals without impacting their health. A mobile application is a two-way communication to improve experiences and stay in touch every step of the way.

Besides the restaurant menus, the same app can offer booking options, chat with staff, information about guest services, and other queries. That way, customers can adjust to the “new normal” easily.

A Great Example-Swedish Hotel Guests Enjoying Their Stay With Mobile Access

More than 3,000 rooms at six Nordic Choice Hotels are boasting their uninterrupted customer service with mobile access. The solution is helping customers to check and use their smartphones as room keys.

No-touch required at all! The mobile solution is helping staff to take care of customers’ unique needs. Isn’t that amazing when everyone wants to limit social interactions without limiting their fun moments?

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s creating a smart room and implementing modern technology to improve the hotel experience’s core aspects, COVID-19 is reinventing the hotel experience now. So, travelers who wish to change their day-to-day life must leverage digital technology to improve their experiences. That way, you can enable yourself to follow social distancing parameters and other necessary measures without compromising the required interactions.

So, are you ready to travel to your favorite destination?

How do I set up and use VR on my phone?

Nowadays, VR technology is being exploited to the hilt not only in the gaming industry but also across other sectors. Starting from automobile engineers to architects to healthcare employees and almost every other professional are reaping the benefits of VR. Nevertheless, it was the gaming realm that first exploited VR on a broad basis, thereby catalyzing the technology’s use in nearly all spheres of human activity.

The interface of VR and gaming (i.e., video games and computer games) has evolved dramatically over the years. Headsets like Oculus Quest, Valve Index and HTC Vive revolutionized this field. Contrary to what many gamers believe, these days, you can enjoy VR even on your smartphone, besides the PC or game console. Yes, the state-of-the-art VR headset models tend to be more versatile, letting you pair them with your iPhone or Android phone for playing VR.

You don’t have any expensive video game console or any costly accessories for setting up your smartphone with a VR headset. You can straightaway connect a compatible VR headset with your Android smartphone or iPhone, and you’re ready to go.  In this article, we’ll walk you through how to set up your smartphone with a VR headset for an immersive gaming experience. 

VR Headsets

At the outset, you’ll indispensably need a VR headset for playing and enjoying VR-enabled games on your mobile phone. Of course, once you connect the smartphone with the VR headset, you’ll be able to use VR for other purposes as well. Talking about VR headsets, those hefty black goggles serve as your window to the world of virtual reality.

With the VR headset, you can see and explore everything that is occurring in the VR realm. Apart from the headset, you’ll also require efficient hand controllers and a set of top-quality headphones. The hand controllers available in different variants like gamepads, paddles, and joysticks let you take advantage of and control gameplay features.

On the other hand, a quality headphone set goes a long way in guaranteeing a riveting gaming experience by fully reproducing the 3D audio effect. 

VR Headsets Perfectly Compatible with Smartphones

The latest batches of VR headsets are designed keeping in mind the interests of the different types of gamers. Simply put, the most recent VR headset brands are supremely companionable for use with both iPhones and Android smartphones. The Samsung Gear VR is one of the bestselling VR headsets that is compatible with some of the Galaxy Note phones as well as with Samsung S7 and S6 series.

Google Cardboard is the most affordable VR headset that pairs with Android phones and iPhones. Other VR headset brands that are compatible with smartphones are Merge VR Goggles, DESTEK V4, BNEXT VR Pro, and Mattel View-Master.

VR Ready Smartphones  

If you don’t have a VR compatible smartphone and are looking for one, you’ll find many. For a start, you have the Samsung S10 Series; you can also check out the Google Pixels right from 2G models and above. On the other hand, all iPhones starting from iPhone 6 and beyond are VR ready.

You can do a quick Google search for having a list of all VR companionable smartphones.

Pairing Your Android Smartphone or iPhone with VR Headset   

You’ll invariably need a VR headset for pairing the device with your smartphone. Once you procure a VR headset, you will need to follow the steps mentioned below for completing the linkage:-

1st step 

You’ll first have to tap into the VR software app on your smartphone. In case you do not have the VR app on your phone, then you can easily download the same from the App Store or the (Google) Play Store. You’ll have to key in “VR” or “VR Apps,” and the web browser will display a variety of software.

Just choose one app for downloading to your phone and then installing it. However, you’ll have first to make sure that your phone is companionable with VR. Towards that context, you’ll also come across apps that can help establish whether your phone is VR-ready or not.  

2nd step 

Once you’re through with downloading and installing the VR app, the next step requires you to position your phone inside the headset. The majority of VR headsets available out there open from the front, thus allowing you to place the phone comfortably. Make sure that the front side of the phone or its display is facing you while positioning it inside the headset.

Before closing the VR headset and wearing it, ensure that the phone is stably placed within the mount. Detach the protective casing if you find that the phone is not wedged in properly.  

3rd step 

Access the VR app you downloaded on the phone a little while ago using the hand controller. However, you’ll first have to connect the hand controller with your smartphone through Bluetooth before you can install it.

4th step 

After gaining access to the VR app, you’ll find a line running through the middle of the screen or display. This line corresponds to equal halves of the screens of the smartphone and the VR headset. You’ll have to bring this line in alignment with the headset mount’s center so that you can equally view both the left and right halves.  

5th step 

Once you’re sure that the pairing and alignment are perfect, you’re ready to put on the VR headset. Wearing the headset is very much like putting on a pair of traditional goggles- position the headset in front of your forehead and keep on adjusting the straps till you feel entirely comfortable. While placing the headset, you have the option of changing or setting the distance between the two lenses.

You can adjust the spacing between the lenses turning the roller atop the headset. Additionally, you’ll need to set the button on one side of the VR headset for fine-tuning the focus.   

6th step 

Now you’re fully prepared to enjoy an FPS or MPS game in VR!

What Places To Visit In Hoi An with Your Soulmate

Not too far from Danang, there is a picturesque, small town Hoi An, which attracts travelers from all over the world. Yellow two-story buildings decorated with lanterns, colorful Chinese pagodas, and a beautiful sea – this is why the city has become a favorite destination of many people in love.

1. Canton Assembly Hall

The building, also known as Quan Cong (Canton is the old name of the Chinese province), was built by merchants from the southern province of China in 1786. The hall was used for relaxation, meetings, and religious ceremonies. One of the main figures is Quan Cong – a Chinese general from the time of the kingdom of Wu (existed from 222 to 280 AD).

2. Fujian Assembly Hall

Fujian Assembly Hall was built at the end of the 17th century for merchants from the province of China. Fujian natives were one of the most prominent merchant communities in Vietnam. They also built pagodas in Saigon and other cities. The house has an altar of one of the most important deities for Fujian residents – the sea goddess Thien Hau. Merchants worshiped her before setting sail. Externally, the building looks like the Canton Assembly Hall, so for architecture fans it will be quite interesting.

3. Fung Hung House

Fung Hung House is located right behind the Japanese Bridge – this is one of the largest ancient mansions of Hoi An. The building was built in 1780 by a family that earned money by selling glass products, spices, and incense. The architecture of the house combines elements of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese traditions. The two-story building is made out of 80 wooden columns. As in other ancient houses of the city, there is a family sanctuary in Fung Hung. In addition, there are awesome views from the balcony of the second floor.

4. My Son Sanctuary

This is the most interesting place of the Vietnamese sights of the Champa civilization. This archaeological site is an hour’s drive from Hoi An and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the 4th to the 12th centuries, the capital of the kingdom of Champa was here. When the lands were captured, the city was abandoned. However, its towers and temples of red brick and sandstone may “survive” for centuries.

5. Minh Huong Communal House

Minh Huong Community House is located in central Hoi An, opposite the central market. This beautiful building in typical Chinese architectural style is one of the city’s several communal houses. Minh Huong House was built in 1820. It is worth a visit as evidence of bygone days. Externally, the building looks like an attractive example of the interpenetration of two cultures – Chinese and Vietnamese.

6. Museum of Folk Culture

The Hoi An Folk Culture Museum is young – it has existed since 2005. But it has already gained popularity thanks to exhibits telling about the culture and applied art of ordinary Vietnamese villagers. The museum is located in the historic center, in an old wooden two-story house. It is also known as the museum of folklore.

7. Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge, depicted on the coat of arms of Hoi An, is considered its symbol. It connects the two main streets of the old city, decorates Hoi An, and serves as a reminder of its varied history and past greatness. From the 17th to the 19th centuries, it was a large commercial seaport. Chinese and Japanese merchants came here in the spring and remained until the end of summer. They returned home with the south wind. Over time, many remained to develop the business out of season. So, there were Chinese and Japanese communities, settled on a national basis.

The Ultimate Travel Safety Guide For Cannabis Enthusiasts

As the holiday season is around, everyone would have their plans. While most people would want to spend time with family, some may want to travel. You may want to take a break all the more this season after being packed indoors due to the pandemic. While it makes sense to go the extra mile with travel safety right now, cannabis enthusiasts need to be a tad more careful. You will have to stay safe from the virus as well as make sure that you don’t go against the law. You need not worry much about traveling safely with weed, provided you take the right measures to be on the right side of the law. Here is the ultimate travel safety guide that cannabis lovers can rely on.

Study the local laws carefully

Although this sounds elementary, most weed travelers fail to do proper research on the local laws of their destination. It is something you shouldn’t take frivolously as every state and city has different laws related to cannabis usage and even the quantity you can carry lawfully. While some states accept medical cannabis cards issued in other states, many won’t. Also, some parts of the country are still running old laws, and carrying weed can get you in trouble. It is best to start with careful research of legalities in the jurisdiction you plan to travel to. If you are visiting a weed-loving friend, don’t hesitate to ask for some information.

Know your rights

Traveling to a destination where medical marijuana is legal gets you in a safe place but knowing your rights is always a smart approach. If you are aware, you will be able to take a stand if you are detained unlawfully. You need not agree to illegal searches as long as you are abiding by the norms. Instead, you can state your objections to the authorities if your rights are violated.

Shop the right accessories

Here comes the most practical piece of advice for cannabis lovers! Before you embark, you should have a look at your stuff and stock up for the trip. Check whether you can travel with accessories. If you have the permissions, look for discreet pieces that do not grab unnecessary attention. For example, avid smokers can check an online headshop to pick pipes and bongs that are easy to carry. Also, ensure that they are sturdy enough to make it through the journey.

Store your stash carefully

Another aspect of traveling safely with weed is storage. The objective is to make sure that your stuff retains its quality and does not attract attention due to its sight and smell. Get an airtight container, which won’t allow light, heat, and oxygen in or out. Packing in an extra layer of plastic is sensible to keep the aroma locked in. Also, make sure that it isn’t visible, whether you are traveling by road or flight. Keeping it on the car seat or in your hand luggage could invite trouble.

Apart from taking these precautions, be sure to carry your documents whenever you leave home with cannabis. Your doctor’s prescription and medical marijuana card would be enough to validate the legitimacy of the stuff you are carrying, even if you fall prey to the prying eyes of the authorities.

How to Sleep Well During the Journey

When you fly across different time zones your body doesn’t have time to adjust. Thus, your sleep pattern is disrupted. No matter if you’re traveling for pleasure or work, keep in mind these tips… CONTINUE READING >> 

Traveling gives you the opportunity to explore new cultures, taste new foods, and create lifelong memories. When you fly across different time zones in just a few hours, you’re moving at a fast rate and your body doesn’t have time to adjust. Thus, you have trouble falling asleep and you feel tired all the time. any time you go and see the world your sleep pattern is disrupted. No matter if you’re traveling for pleasure or work, keep in mind these tips.

Read the reviews before booking accommodation

Since the sleeping experience is the most important part of staying in a hotel, read customer reviews prior to booking accommodation. If there are complaints about the hotel, such as references to bed bugs, you should be worried. Good hotels go to incredible lengths to make people’s stay a pleasant one by investing in comfortable beds. Your room should have a foam mattress that adjusts to your body’s temperature and weight. It’s a masterpiece of comfort. Hotels, for the most part, use the same brand in all locations. Pay attention to noisy occupants. Charming as the hotel might be, if the guests tend to misbehave, you won’t get a minute of sleep.

Invest in sleep accessories

While some people can’t get to sleep or sleep well at night, others don’t have any issues of the sort. If you don’t belong to the lucky category, you should better invest in sleep accessories such as earplugs and an eye mask to eliminate the distractions. Earplugs can protect your ears against loud noises, so they can make a huge difference in sleep quality if you’re staying in a loud tourist area. The eye mask, on the other hand, lets you be surrounded by complete darkness, which signals to the brain that it’s time to sleep. With time, you’ll get used to sleeping on a plane or in a strange environment. Until then, you need some helpful accessories.

Try to sleep strategically

If you try to nap strategically, you can increase your chances of getting a good night’s rest. Before you set off on your adventure go to bedtime earlier or later. This way, you’ll be ready for the new normal. According to the experts, it takes about one day per time zone for your body to adjust, so do everything possible to facilitate the transition. Strategic sleeping can play a positive role in restoring energy levels. If you don’t have a bedroom environment that promotes uninterrupted sleep, at least keep your sleeping schedule stable. You’ll fall asleep and wale up more easily.

Traveling can be a chance to get away from it all and unwind. However, leaving the comfort of your bed can result in tossing and turning all night long. If you’re traveling abroad, don’t fret because you can get a good night’s sleep. Eat your meals at the same time you would at home and, if it helps, bring your pillow, which reminds you of home. If you don’t snooze, you lose.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Dordogne Travel Guide

For busy town residents, Dordogne’s rustic and natural excellence is absolute heaven. A radiant, peaceful, and welcomingly sluggish corner of the country, specked with chateaux and beautiful bastides. Visiting Dordogne is like a charming fantasy. Nothing important might be going on, yet you don’t want it to ever end. There lies its allure. Enhancing experience at Dordogne includes the commendable suppers, made with duck, dark truffle, walnut and goat’s cheddar with tasty local wines (try just outside St Emilion, where you get more taste for less money).

This article will give you some pointers on how to get the best out of your stay in the Dordogne department and region.

The Typical Sights

    • Lascaux Caves & Cave Paintings – World famous Paleolithic cave painting.
    • Chateau de Hautefort –Roam the grounds of this rich invigorated château.
    • Dordogne River – Hike on the banks, kayak, swim or ride along this peaceful stream.
    • Gardens of Marqueyssac – Play hide and seek in the maze of faultlessly etched fences.
    • Saint-Front Cathedral – Appreciate this multi-domed Byzantine church and the largest edifice of its sort in Aquitaine.
    • La Roque–Gagnac – Visit this beautiful village and one of the most beautiful in France, dropped between the cliff and the river.
    • Grotte de Rouffignac & Padirac – Astonishing tri-level gigantic caverns to view the ancient graffiti, stalactites and stalagmites.

Best time to visit?

There is no particular time to visit Dordogne. Most people visit around July and August when the climate is at its best. Summer is likewise the liveliest time in Dordogne. There is a high possibility you’ll discover a festival, fair, or event, or even one of the occasional night markets, where you can relish in the open-air dinners with local people.

Visiting the Dordogne in summer usually means that streets, café, and famous attractions will be busier. Late spring and early autumn are calmer periods to visit but the climate these times might be more changeable.

During the colder months, the summer groups will have well and dispersed, uncovering a side of the Dordogne unusually observed by tourists. There is frequently fog, ice, and even rare snow in the valleys, a stunning elegance of the frosted chill on the trees. Consider Christmas in the Dordogne.  For fervent gourmets and foodies, there is one more motivation to visit from December to March during the dark-truffle season.

Renting French Gites in Dordogne

Gites are self-catering holiday cottages or houses in the countryside of France. It is an appealing alternative to camping in tents or a mobile home. It is less expensive and more convenient than hotels, and with greater freedom.

French gites are appropriate for larger groups from 5 to 15 people, whether it is your family, maybe a group of families, or a group of friends on holiday together.

Gites usually have an independent kitchen for self-catering meals, so you can prepare some family nutrition or maybe get adventurous with some French cuisine.  Your gite should have many bedrooms so everyone sleeps comfortably, with plenty of bathrooms.  Ideally you want a nice big dining table and eating area for social get togethers, whether for festivities like Christmas, Easter or summer holidays.

Such French gites with pools Dordogne are a great fun spot for children.   With the right private pool for your group, you can enjoy splashing about or relaxing on an inflatable in the swimming pool.

Choosing your French gites is the best way to enjoy your holiday in Dordogne. Many of the French gites are owned by English speakers, and you can often make reservations in sterling or euros. By going direct with the owner you suffer no organization charges or commissions, which you would if you find your gites via agencies like booking.com or TripAdvisor.  Some of the owners of gites live around the town or close by, some leave you entirely to the peace of your own personal kingdom!   Gite owners are usually passionately interested in offering a great service and an individual welcome.

How to book French Gites

Most French gites with pools Dordogne are open for holidays earlier in July and August. You can usually book all year round for your summer holidays, but it just depends on availability.  You can also visit in September when there is still good weather and fewer crowds.

French gites are less expensive in other seasons. It is a more affordable and comfortable accommodation than hotels and gives your friends and family time and space to relax together.

Planning Your First Snowboarding Trip- Here’s The Ultimate Packing List!

Your first ski trip is sure to be an enthralling experience, and you would want it to be the best. The thought of snowy slopes and open sky, along with the feel of fresh, mountain air makes you want to be there right away. But right preparation is a must as it can make all the difference. After all, you would want to be well-equipped when you hit the slopes. Having a checklist of essentials makes things easier for an enthusiastic first-timer who is likely to skip a thing or more amid the excitement. Here is one that seasoned ski-enthusiasts follow every time they embark on a trip to the snow-capped mountains.

Warm clothing

It’s going to be cold up there, so you will need to pack lots of warm clothing. You will require waterproof pants, a lightweight snow jacket, and a couple of sweaters. Don’t forget warm innerwear, as you will need to layer up for extra warmth. Snow boots are a must as well. Accessories like caps, mufflers, socks, and mittens keep you safe from the wind and snow. Even as you carry warm cloth, ensure that they are not heavy or oversized enough to restrict movement.

Sunglasses

Even if there is snow all around on the slopes, you may expect the sun to shine brightly on high altitudes. It is best to carry your sunglasses to see the best views of the landscape without worrying about the harsh glare of the sun. You will probably want a pair to pose for some nice pictures as well. After all, you would love to flaunt the memories of your first snowboarding trip all over social media!

Snowboard

You don’t even need to mention this one because you cannot go snowboarding without a snowboard. Investing in an all mountain snowboard is a good idea if you plan to take the sport seriously in the long run. Look for one that is sturdy yet easy to use as a beginner. Go through the reviews of the board before you pick one and get some advice from a seasoned skier as well.

You can use this online tool from Snowboard Selector on Snowboard Selector for choosing the perfect snowboard for you. Also, be sure to bring along a snowboard lock and bag to keep it secure throughout the trip.

Safety helmet

It may be easy to overlook safety when going for your first snowboarding trip, but remember that it matters more than anything else. First things first, you need to pack a helmet because the right headgear can save your life if a mishap occurs. Also, pack along a first-aid kit and a multi-tool pack for handling minor problems with your equipment.

Portable charger

Since you will be up in the mountains most of the time, it is important to stay connected. A lipstick-sized portable charger can be your best companion. You can choose to charge your phone in the middle of nowhere, even when there’s no way to plug it around. After all, it would be hard to survive without your smartphone as you will need it for navigation, calling, listening to music, and taking photos.

Apart from packing these essentials, carry along lots of common sense and clear thinking because they will keep you safe. Ideally, you should plan your first trip with experienced friends and have a guide to instruct you all along.