We always hear that technology is constantly evolving, and we can look around to see that it’s true. Most of us don’t think about how our current tech can change how the modern travel industry operates, but the truth is that traveling now is nothing like it was as few as five years ago.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the entire travel industry suffered heavily during the initial phases of lockdown and travel restrictions. Even now, as travel begins to open up in most countries, there is still plenty of uncertainty that can take the fun out of traveling to a dream destination.
While the pandemic has made some aspects of travel more complicated, it was also the catalyst for major overhauls in how we use modern technology to make planning trips better, safer and more enjoyable.
Personalized Travel is the New Normal
Traditional group tours are out of style. No longer are we interested in boarding tour buses filled with strangers carting us from place to place on a strict schedule. This type of tourism was falling out of favor before the pandemic, but COVID-19 accelerated the decline. It also ushered in a new era of tourists who expect a certain level of personalization and customization in all aspects of their lives.
Innovative platforms like Youtravel.me embrace this and use proprietary methods to recommend trips based on interests, preferred levels of activity and other factors. We call this “micro-segmentation.” It allows us to give our users a way to learn more about the people they will be traveling with and connect them with the perfect travel expert.
Doing so allows users to discover the world alongside like-minded people through the help of someone passionate and knowledgeable. This transforms the group tour experience into something far more enriching and exciting, and it’s only possible through modern technology.
Tech Takes the Guesswork Out of Traveling
Pre-pandemic, planning your own trips was stressful at best. In the wake of COVID-19, trying to plan a fun and safe travel experience on your own can quickly start to feel like it’s not worth the effort. Travel management platforms are one of the technologies that have emerged to better help travelers navigate these somewhat tricky waters.
Most people prefer some level of autonomy when it comes to planning a trip. It’s generally not enjoyable to feel shepherded along like a school field trip. Platforms like Youtravel.me take this into account by offering “structured spontaneity.” Users get to decide which trips are right for them using an advanced set of filters, and they can chat with travel experts about any or all details of the trip beforehand. They have the comfort of a flexible itinerary and feeling confident in their arrangements. Still, they have the freedom and opportunity to truly enjoy the best that their chosen destination has to offer.
Working With Small Tour Experts is Easier Than Ever
Anyone who has booked a trip with a large agency has likely experienced the disappointment of being paired with an “expert” who knows as much about the destination as anyone who can do a quick Wikipedia search. Thanks to advances in technology, travel platforms like Youtravel.me can find and vet true local experts who are as passionate about adventure and exploration as our users.
Not only can we match like-minded travelers to foster lasting connections, but we also match customers with verified locals and independent guides who offer truly unique tours that can’t be found anywhere else. Technology has advanced so far that we can use advanced algorithms and neural networks to screen tour guides to ensure that their personalities and standards for travel match our own. This level of customization is completely upending the travel industry.
Experience the Thrill of Travel Without the Frustration
Now that we can travel again, we’re more focused on experiences than destinations. Trips have become less about visiting tourist spots and more about making connections, experiencing new things and immersing ourselves in interactive environments.
Utilizing modern technology with platforms like Youtravel.me allows travelers to go anywhere, feel like a welcome guest and never worry about whether or not they will get the experience they’re dreaming of.