Tips Archives - Unique Journeys LLC

Will AI Change the Travel Industry

Jun 5, 2023

Will AI Change the Travel Industry? As with nearly all businesses, technology offers the travel industry endless opportunities.

The pandemic only increased the speed of tech adoption in all industries, travel included. A survey by McKinsey shared that because of COVID-19, “companies have accelerated the digitization of their customer and supply-chain interactions and their internal operations by three to four years.”

Room service robots

Two Chinese hotel giants invested in ExcelLand, a manufacturer of 3,000 robots. Hotel robots are already being used in a small number of hotels.

BTG Homeinnes is looking at these robots to control costs and safeguard guests.

Chatbots

Hotels, airlines, booking sites, and others use chatbots like never before, for “chatbots” have increased by 4,900% over the last ten years.

Travelers can chat with providers during every stage of their journey. And they won’t (always) feel like they’re talking to a robot like in the past. Advances in AI have made this type of communication hassle-free and more realistic.

United Airlines has launched an “Agent on Demand” service that allows travelers at the airport to video chat with a customer service representative simply by scanning a QR code. (Remember when QR codes were a thing of the past and now see them everywhere).

Facial Recognition

More and more airlines and airports are deploying facial recognition technology. How do you feel about this technology? Will it save you time in the airport at check-in?

Tech Adoption Accelerates

Travel Tech Adoption Accelerates refers to the increasing rate at which technology is adopted within the travel industry. Technological advancements have significantly impacted the travel industry, leading to various innovations and improvements in how people plan, book, and experience their trips. Here are some key points about the accelerating adoption of travel tech:

Mobile Applications: The widespread use of smartphones has revolutionized travel planning and booking. Mobile applications have become famous for travelers to research destinations, book flights, and accommodations, access digital boarding passes, and receive real-time travel updates. Travel companies have invested heavily in developing user-friendly mobile apps to cater to the growing demand.

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Online platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb have transformed how people book travel arrangements. These platforms offer various options, competitive prices, and user reviews, empowering travelers to make informed decisions. As a result, OTAs have witnessed significant growth, and traditional brick-and-mortar travel agencies have had to adapt or face challenges.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML technologies have found applications in various aspects of travel, including personalized recommendations, chatbots for customer service, and predictive analytics for demand forecasting. AI-powered virtual assistants help travelers with their queries and assist in their journey, making travel more convenient and efficient.

How do you feel about AI?

Internet of Things (IoT): The IoT has enabled the development of intelligent travel experiences. From connected luggage that can be tracked remotely to bright hotel rooms with automated controls and personalized preferences, IoT devices enhance the convenience and streamline the travel process.

Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): VR and AR technologies have revolutionized how people research and experience destinations. Virtual tours and 360-degree videos provide immersive experiences, allowing travelers to preview locations before booking. AR applications help travelers navigate unfamiliar places and provide real-time information about attractions, transportation, etc.

Contactless Solutions: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of contactless technologies within the travel industry. Digital payments, touchless check-ins, and biometric authentication systems minimize physical contact, enhance safety, and improve efficiency at airports, hotels, and other travel-related establishments.

Will it make travel easier?

Big Data and Analytics: Travel companies leverage big data and analytics to gain insights into customer preferences, market trends, and operational efficiencies. This data-driven approach helps tailor travel experiences, optimize pricing strategies, and improve customer service.

Sustainability and Eco-friendly Solutions: With growing environmental concerns, travel tech adoption also focuses on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. This includes initiatives like carbon offset programs, digital ticketing to reduce paper waste, and using renewable energy sources in transportation and accommodations.

The accelerated adoption of travel tech has transformed the travel industry already, empowering travelers with greater control and convenience while allowing travel companies to enhance their offerings and provide personalized experiences.

You may be considering taking a cruise; here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL VACATION

Jun 3, 2023

For any trip, there are certain tips for a successful vacation that will apply. One of the most important from my perspective is to engage a travel agent who can help you with planning. Whether you want to go on your own, take a tour or cruise, they can help you navigate the ins and outs of your destination.

That being said, there are still some tips for a successful vacation that you can and should take responsibility for.

Research

When you meet with your travel advisor, it can be a great help if you have done some preliminary research. Here is another great use of a list. You can sketch out the places and things you most want to see or do. Making this a family or group project will help you narrow down what is important to everyone. Some things that might be done by only certain members of your group. This will have the effect of energizing everyone about the trip.

Planning

I’m a big proponent of lists. You will certainly end up with several checklists. There will be dates to remember such as deposits, final payments and details to check off when they are completed. Even if you have a great travel agent, you will want to make certain you are on top of the schedule.

If you are planning on travelling outside the United States, you need to make certain all your documents are current and correct. Most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six (6) months after your trip. Another little thought of item is that your passport must be in good repair. No rips or spilled coffee stains. Make certain you have any information on additional documents needed, such as visas or vaccinations.

Have Passport Will Travel

Put a copy of your contact information inside your suitcase. If it doesn’t arrive when you do, they can look inside to find out the owner of the luggage. Another thing which is becoming more common, is to put a tracking device in your luggage. That way, you will be able to see” where your bag is.

Make copies of your itinerary with phone numbers of when and where you will be with someone at home. You should also carry a copy of your passport information with you in the event your passport is lost or stolen. This will give the authorities the information they need to issue you new documents. Leaving a copy at hone with someone is also a good idea.

The day for your departure has finally come. You have checked off all the items on your list and you are ready to go. Here are some more tips for a successful vacation. They are just as important as itms packed in your suitcase.

Patience

One of the first things you should pack is your patience. Travel can sometimes be trying and you need to believe that everyone is trying their best and being impatient does no one any good.

You also need to understand that when you enter a different country, their time frames and cultural norms may not be yours. In order to have a successful vacation you need to “go with the flow”.

That brings up some other tips:

Respect

Noted, every country and region has their own way of doing things and their own viewpoint of events. Even though you may disagree with their point of view, you are a visitor in their region and should respect their right to their beliefs.

Common Sense

This is another intangible you should pack along with your suitcase. Everyone on vacation wants to have a fabulous time, but in order to do that, there are certain precautions you should take in order to make that successful vacation a reality.

You are a tourist and no matter what you do, you will stand out as a tourist. You might stand on a street corner reading a map or stare at your phone or other device. There are, however, some things you can do to make yourself less vulnerable.

There are pickpockets and thieves everywhere in the world. Leave your shiny and expensive jewelry at home. You won’t impress anyone and thieves will literally rip them off you.
Don’t carry large sums of money and flash it around. Take only what you think you will need for the day and leave the rest in your hotel, cabin, etc.
Women should invest in a good cross-body bag and men can use a money belt so that your money is available, but not easily parted from you.
Be situationally aware. While you want to explore, you shouldn’t venture into an area that has few people or is not well lit. You wouldn’t do that in your hometown and you shouldn’t do it on your vacation where you don’t know areas well.
If you are staying at a hotel or sailing on a cruise ship, take a card with you that has their address and contact information. If you do get slightly disoriented or lost, you can use that to communicate with a taxi driver even if you don’t know the language.

You are taking all the precautions and you are having a great time. Here are some further tips for a successful vacation:

Courtesy

When you go into a shop instead of leading with “What does this item cost “, begin your conversation with a greeting in their language. Even if you don’t get the pronunciation perfect, people respect the fact that you are trying.

Another aspect of courtesy is about taking photos. If you are taking pictures of a large scene, that is one thing, but if you are taking pictures of individuals, it is customary to ask permission and even give a small gratuity for their participation.

You should also not snap photos in area which many people consider sacred, such as places of worship. When you visit such sites, they usually are open and people are there to practice their religion. To them it isn’t a tourist area, but a place of contemplation and you should honor that. Ask someone in authority if you can discreetly take photos.

Curiosity

Everyone likes to talk about themselves, so ask questions of the locals. Ask them about their town, family and community. If you are in a restaurant, ask if they mind sharing a table and giving you some insight into the area. They most likely will be glad to do it and you will be rewarded with information and insight into their way of life.

Taking the time before your vacation to organize and meet deadlines and then following some simple, straightforward guidelines will ensure that you have a successful and enriching vacation.

Unique Journey –https://www.unique-journeys.com is here to be your partner in planning the perfect vacation enabling you to relax and enjoy your time collecting memories. Here is an article which highlights some of the reasons you need a travel agent to help you realize that perfect trip of a lifetime. https://unique-journeys.com/why-you-need-a-travel-agent.

BON VOYAGE

Traveling with Toddlers Tips

May 5, 2023

Traveling with toddlers can be challenging. Especially with cramped airplane seating and busy waiting areas, this makes it difficult. Proper preparation and planning are essential to reduce stress and ensure a worry-free travel day. Here are some strategies for flying and traveling with toddlers, including tips from flight attendants:

Remember to RELAX and ENJOY

Schedule an early morning departure.
This is especially helpful when traveling with toddlers or young children who may be tired and want to nap.
Save your mileage upgrades for trips without toddlers. Traveling in first class with kids can be more stressful than it’s worth.
Prepare your kids for what to expect. Children do better when they know what to expect, so consider showing them a video that shows them the entire flight experience. Click here for some videos on YouTube.
Avoid aisle seats for kids. Aisle seats can be dangerous for toddlers as the food and beverage cart can reach them, leading to spills and burns. Consider seating your child by the window or in the middle seat instead.
Dress in layers and avoid shoes with laces. Whether you’re dealing with in-flight heat and air conditioning or changing climates, be prepared for changing temperatures when traveling with a toddler.
Bring surprises. A wrapped new toy can be a great way to keep your toddler entertained during the flight. Kids love to unwrap presents; a new toy can be a fun distraction.
Be mindful of germs. Wipe down surfaces when flying with toddlers, and avoid sending them to the bathroom without shoes. The bathroom floor is known to be a breeding ground for germs, and the plane’s movements can cause spills and puddles.
Opt for a compact stroller and consider a kid’s harness. Navigating an airport without a stroller is not always possible, but swapping your standard stroller for an umbrella one can make a difference. Gate-checking the stroller is also recommended. A kid harness can provide added safety and peace of mind for multiple young travelers.
Prepare for airport security. Make sure items that need to be removed during security are easily accessible. Keep in mind that snacks may require extra scrutiny during the screening process.
Pack essentials without overdoing them. Flight attendants advise parents to pack enough essentials for the flight but not to overpack and burden themselves. Avoid expecting food on the plane that interests children; instead, bring enough low-sugar snacks, diapers, wipes, and sanitizers.
Create a packing list based on necessity. A comprehensive packing list should include comfort items like pacifiers, sanitation supplies, headphones, art supplies, and low-sugar snacks. Avoid overpacking by being mindful of what is truly necessary.
Address air pressure concerns. If your child has had recent ear infections or colds, consult with a doctor before flying. To address air pressure discomfort, provide enough water for the flight and encourage your child to drink during takeoff and landing. This swallowing motion can help alleviate pressure and provide hydration.
Don’t hesitate to use Pull-Ups. Even if your child is potty-trained, Pull-Ups can be helpful when flying with a toddler or young child. They can help reduce the stress of rushing to the bathroom or dealing with an in-seat accident.
Show gratitude to flight attendants. Flight attendants appreciate a small gratuity when dealing with toddlers. Bringing some chocolates from the airport and handing them over during boarding can go a long way. This gesture is especially appreciated during the holidays when flight attendants may be away from their families. It can also lead to better service and even a free drink.
Keep your cool. Some passengers may not appreciate traveling with children, but as long as you’re making an effort, you have most people on your side. Don’t let negative comments get to you; focus on doing your best.
Choose an airline with family-friendly amenities. Look for airlines that cater to families by offering kid-friendly perks such as a wide selection of TV shows and movies, kid-sized headphones, and snacks. Consider airlines with family lounges or airports with play areas for children to burn off some energy during layovers.

CONSIDER ALL THE MEMORIES YOU ARE CREATING

We would love to help you plan your next vacation. Our passion for travel is River Cruises.
You may be considering taking a cruise; here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

Host a Virtual Travel Party

Mar 9, 2023

Here are two options how for hosting a virtual travel party.

Planning a River Cruise with friends? A great way to have a virtual travel party as you count down the days until your adventure begins.

Virtual on Zoom or in-person works if you live close enough.

As you and your friends are waiting to embark on your cruise, you can still have a fun travel-themed party to get excited about your upcoming trip virtually. You can do this monthly until the day arrives for your great adventure.

Here are some ideas:

Choose a cruise theme: Select a theme that reflects the cruise you will be taking, such as a tropical island or Caribbean cruise.
Set the scene: Decorate your space to fit the theme. You can use nautical decorations like anchors, fishnets, and shells, or create a tropical atmosphere with palm leaves, flowers, and bright colors.
Dress up: Encourage your traveling friends to dress up in cruise-inspired outfits, such as beachwear.
Serve cruise-inspired snacks: Serve snacks and drinks that fit the theme of your party. You can serve tropical cocktails, seafood appetizers, and desserts with a beachy twist.
Talk about activities: Each of you shares choices of what you have found you can do while on your cruise. (Ask others what they did for ideas or go to Google).
Play music: Create a playlist of music that fits the theme of your party. You can also include songs that you will hear on your cruise.
Make a countdown: Create a countdown to your cruise by making a calendar with the number of days left until your departure. Text your friends with a gif that lets them know you can’t wait for the trip and spending time with them.
Send each other items you can use on your cruises, such as suntan lotion, water bottle, power bank, or sunglasses.

The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the company of your friends as you get excited about your upcoming cruise.

2nd option for those who like to travel but have not determined their next destination is a virtual travel-themed party can be a fun way to bring people together and explore the world from the comfort of your home. Cultivating relationships is one of the most important things in life.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose a location you would all like to travel to in the future. It is always nice to talk with a travel agent.
Choose a theme: Select a specific location or type of travel, such as a beach vacation, a safari adventure, or a European tour.
Send invitations: Send virtual invitations to your guests, including the theme and any dress code suggestions.
Decorate: Set up a background that fits the theme of your party. You can also encourage your guests to decorate their backgrounds or wear costumes.
Plan activities: Come up with some activities that fit the theme of your party, such as trivia games, virtual tours, or photo sharing. You can also have a virtual scavenger hunt, where guests search for items related to the theme in their homes.
Serve themed snacks: Serve snacks and drinks that fit the theme of your party. For example, if your theme is a beach vacation, you could serve tropical cocktails and beachy snacks like fruit skewers or shrimp cocktail.
Play music: Create a playlist of music that fits the theme of your party. You can also ask your guests to suggest songs that remind them of the location or type of travel you are celebrating.
Share memories: Encourage your guests to share their own travel memories or stories during the party. You can also create a virtual photo album of your past trips and share it with your guests.

Remember, the most important part of hosting a virtual travel-themed party is to have fun and enjoy each other’s company, even if, more important if you can’t physically be in the same location.

Staying Healthy While Traveling

Jan 14, 2023

Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling

After years of staying home in isolation, we are seeing an increase in the number of individuals ready to travel. If there is one thing that the last 2 years have taught us, that is the importance of staying healthy while traveling. Regardless of if you are planning a short road trip or flying internationally, there are several important elements to keep in mind before heading on your dream vacation to ensure a healthy and smooth travel experience. Keep reading to learn our 5 top tips on staying healthy while traveling!

Stay Hydrated

The amount of water that you drink is one of the main ways to stay healthy while traveling. It is suggested that when you are on the road, you should consume 8 ounces of water per hour! If you are flying or planning on enjoying some alcoholic beverages, the intake should increase by another 1 – 2 ounces. Make sure to bring your own water bottle everywhere you go – yes, even when going to the beach! If you have trouble keeping track, a good idea is to also add a reminder notification on your phone to drink water every hour! You would be surprised how well it works!

Get Enough Sleep

The second reason why our immune system tends to weaken when traveling is the lack of enough sleep. Many of us get anxious and nervous a few days before leaving for a trip worrying if we have planned it all. Once you have reached your dream destination, on the other hand, it is highly likely for individuals to get hyperactive and overly excited to do as much as possible. All of this results in skimping on sleep and slowly starting to feel rundown. Do not forget to take rest and breaks and plan to sleep at least 7 hours per night. If you are crossing multiple time zones, try to adjust your body a few days before leaving too!

Bring Your Own Medications

Many travelers tend to create packing lists with all the essential clothes and shoes they will need. Oftentimes, however, medications are forgotten and left behind! Do not make the same mistake, though! From a first-aid kit to some basic multivitamins, having your own medications is a crucial element for staying healthy while traveling. Make sure to add Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen as fever and pain relievers. Herbal supplements rich in minerals and vitamins will also help keep your immune system intact.

Wash Your Hands

We bet that you have heard this too many enough times already! The pandemic from the past 2 years, however, has proven the importance of practicing good hygiene. Traveling exposes our bodies to thousands of bacteria and germs per hour. The best way to fight these is to wash our hands regularly. Do not forget to pack hand sanitizer and some wet wipes as well. Make sure to use these before eating and avoid touching your face as much as possible. Wearing a mask might be a thing of the past now; however, if you want to ensure staying healthy while traveling, we strongly suggest having a mask on, especially at highly crowded places such as airports, buses, trains, etc.

Check Your Immunization Record

Last but definitely not least, we would like to stress the importance of your immunization record. Often, individuals do not consider either the vaccines required for their travels or how up-to-date their immunization passport is. Start by researching the requirements of your destination. Especially if you are traveling to a tropical region – check for any potential diseases. Countries are still dynamically changing their entry conditions – so make sure also to check if you need to be vaccinated for COVID-19 or not. Do not hesitate to contact your doctor and check your immunization record with them. There is no better way to stay healthy while traveling than through prevention!

You should no longer be wondering how to stay healthy while traveling. As long as you follow this relatively simple but extremely vital sequence of steps to prepare for your trip, you should have a healthy and smooth holiday. If you still have concerns, though, you should definitely consult with your primary care provider.