Guest Post: Paradise programmed - How AI can help travel professionals unwind this summer

Shahar Goldboim, founder and CEO at Boom, shares his wisdom with tips on how you can help yourself with the technology

Traditionally, the summer high season has been anything but relaxing for hospitality professionals. While everyone else is enjoying a sun-drenched getaway, hoteliers and short-term rental managers are experiencing their busiest time of the year and working overtime to create unforgettable memories for their guests. 

However, the end of summer stress may be on the horizon. Emerging technologies are revolutionising the travel industry, offering solutions that significantly reduce workloads – and free up headspace – for travel professionals. 

That goes for both during working hours and downtime. The far-reaching automation that cutting-edge platforms offer today means less stress for travel professionals, freeing them up to focus on the things that genuinely require their attention. And, perhaps most importantly, it also means they can enjoy a well-deserved holiday with their families while the sun is still shining.

Ultimately, AI switching on means travel pros can switch off and rest up. Below, we explore five clever ways AI can keep things running smoothly while you're out enjoying your holiday:

Charming chatbots

Gone are the days when guest inquiries would pile up unread in your inbox, requiring constant attention. AI-powered virtual concierges are now capable of handling guest queries, bookings, and complaints completely autonomously, responding quickly and coherently to all messages. These chatbots provide immediate responses to guests, ensuring their needs are met promptly. Whether it's a late-night booking question or a request for local restaurant recommendations, AI concierges can manage these tasks seamlessly. Guests receive immediate responses, and you get to enjoy uninterrupted relaxation.

Maintenance miracle-makers

Prevention is the best form of medicine, and the same applies in the travel world. Advanced sensors and machine learning algorithms can now predict and address maintenance issues before they become crises. These systems can monitor the health of various property systems — such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical — alerting you to potential problems and sometimes even fixing them automatically. By preventing major issues, you save on costly repairs and keep your properties in top condition, without the stress.

Dynamic pricing pros

Maximising revenue requires constant market analysis and pricing adjustments. Fortunately, machine learning can handle this endless and complex task without breaking a sweat. Dynamic pricing algorithms analyse market trends, competitors’ rates, and demand fluctuations in real-time, adjusting your pricing strategies accordingly. Any last-minute gaps in your calendar will be filled up in no time, without you so much as lifting a finger.

Guest experience excellence

Creating memorable guest experiences is at the heart of the hospitality industry, but it’s one of the first things that can slip when overworked, stressed out pros are spreading themselves too thin. AI can take the reins by collecting and analysing data to craft ultra-personalised customer experiences. From remembering a guest’s preferred room temperature to suggesting activities based on past interests, AI helps tailor every aspect of their stay. These personalised touches enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty, ensuring they leave with positive memories — and book again next year!

Automation aces

AI-driven systems nowadays can automate the administrative heavy lifting. This means smooth check-ins and check-outs, meticulous inventory management and seamless team scheduling. This allows daily operations to run autonomously without your constant oversight, reducing the risk of human error from an overstretched manager handling too many bookings at once.

As AI continues to evolve, its role in the hospitality industry will only grow, not only enhancing operational efficiency, but also offering travel professionals something you can’t put a price on – peace of mind. By leveraging AI’s capabilities, you can ensure that your properties are well-managed, your guests are delighted and your revenue is maximised — all without skimping on your own downtime.