5G enabled Tourism Experience

This Catalyst capitalises on 5G technology enablers (MEC, network and service slicing) to creatively enhance visitor experiences at heritage sites. We will produce content and create innovative delivery solutions through AR/VR mixed applications, thus creating new opportunities for heritage sites in becoming content creators for the future broadcasting world.

Spotlight

Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa

Bordering the renowned 17th ‘Road Hole’ of the Old Course in the Home of Golf, the Old Course Hotel enjoys a spectacular location overlooking the famous links courses, the West Sands beach and the beautiful Scottish coastline.This iconic resort has been lavishly refurbished to feature luxurious suites and bedrooms with Kohler bathroom products, a majority with private balconies and views of the world-famous Old Course and the sea.Kohler Waters Spa is rated amongst the top UK Spas and provides an outstanding spa experience, including a thermal suite featuring a hydrotherapy pool, plunge pool, Japanese steam room and light therapy sauna as well as a 20-metre indoor swimming pool with waterfall and fitness suite.

OTHER ARTICLES
Hospitality Management

This too shall pass - but travel will need to adjust

Article | June 20, 2023

Just over a month ago, many of us sat in our offices, surrounded by colleagues, engaged in deep discussions about how best to leverage the increasing demand in travel this year. As per the World Tourism Organization's (UNWTO) forecasts from earlier this year, international tourist arrivals were expected to grow by 4% in 2020, which is not as great as the growth seen in 2017 (7%) and 2018 (6%), but it was still enough to continue fueling the tourism industry, which contributes to about 10.4% of the global GDP and approximately 319 million jobs. We were blissfully unaware of the looming threat of the COVID-19 global pandemic. In fact, several parts of the world failed to take notice of this crown-shaped virus that was about to bring everything to a grinding halt, until March 11, when the World Health Organization officially announced it as a pandemic.

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Hospitality Management

Leveraging AI English Language Training Tools to Address Travel Surge

Article | August 28, 2023

Following the relaxation of travel restrictions worldwide, the travel and hospitality industries are bracing for a surge in demand, which will be exacerbated by the upcoming holiday season. As widespread delays and cancellations become more likely, companies like airlines are looking for new ways to put customer experience first. In a global workplace, not being able to speak more than one language, especially English, can hurt productivity and customer service. For this reason, people who work with customers need to have good communication skills. Investing in AI English Language Training Tools Traditional training for staff in the travel and hospitality industries requires in-person sessions. It can be expensive and impractical because employees have tight work schedules and staff operates in different time zones. AI app-based training alternatives solve these key issues, allowing employees to learn "on-the-fly" whenever possible. Digital training alternatives can provide greater levels of personalization for task assignment and user feedback. This individualized approach to staff development is difficult to replicate in large in-person sessions. Because all tasks are given and done digitally, management teams can track each user's progress and how well training is going for the whole department. Offering Excellent Customer Experience English communication is vital to offering an excellent customer experience and long-term profitability as the travel industry recovers. Artificial intelligence-powered English language training solutions stand out from the crowd. This technology has the potential to constantly advance and improve over time, thanks to its own learning community. Ed-tech learning tools that incorporate future-proofed AI technology will enable providers to confidently invest in training, increase staff engagement, and provide best-in-class customer experiences to global travelers. As a result, companies in the travel and hospitality industries that put communication skills training at the top of their list of priorities and speed it up can increase customer loyalty and stay competitive with other market leaders.

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Hospitality Management

Smart Airports: Hassle-free Air Travel & Revenue

Article | July 24, 2023

Airports are embracing data and technology to improve the experience for both passengers and vendors. Such ‘smart airports’ where internet-connected devices control functions like thermostats and security using cloud-based technologies to enhance the consumer experience, are quickly becoming commonplace. The Emergence of Smart Airports Smart Airports were made to solve control and management problems that airports are having more and more of because of the number of people and goods that go through them. Because of this, experts from all over the world are focusing on smart airports, which use the latest developments in telecommunications, infrastructure, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Advantages of Smart Airports Real-time data improves operational efficiency. Cost reduction, productivity improvement, and operational perfection. Demand optimization through passenger flow control and entry automation. Improved passenger handling, flight control, check-in, etc. Biometric monitoring systems, advanced cyber security, and reliable operations and maintenance improve surveillance and security. Better ground and health surveillance (cleaning frequencies, availability of amenities, etc.). The Revenue Angle A smart airport uses Wi-Fi access points as sensors to track passengers’ location and record their dwell times. With this data, the airport could place signs and ads where they would be seen. While landing travelers previously made few purchases, this airport placed signs for products they may want to buy before leaving where they would be seen. The result was increased sales for retailers and landside revenue for the airport operator. (Source: Deloitte Study) Traveler’s & Airport Operations Experience A traveler constantly interacts with technology systems and stakeholders during his journey through the airport. The smart airport systems influence the traveler’s safety, convenience, and overall experience at the airport. Operations like bag tracking, indoor navigation, in-store beacons, geo-fencing, queue analyzer, biometric screening, Wi-Fi passenger tracking, and building management systems are powered by IoT implementations that make an airport smart. Creating a Smart Airport: The Checklist A well-structured planning process can assist airport leaders in navigating all of the options and gaining confidence in achieving the airport's business objectives. The checklist includes the following steps: Selecting an IoT solution that aligns with your business goals Determine the organizational and technical abilities required to implement the solution Craft a road map to address gaps between the required abilities and existing abilities

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Travel Technology, Airlines and Airports

Flight Chaos: Call Centers Turn to AI for Help

Article | July 19, 2022

In recent weeks, call centers have struggled to keep up with consumer complaints about a large number of delayed and canceled flights. As a result, some are turning to automation, specifically an artificial intelligence program based on advanced natural language processing (NLP). In April 2022 alone, the US Department of Transportation received 5,079 complaints about airline service, a more than 320 percent increase from the same month three years prior. Travel Industry Chasing Task Automation and Personalized Customer Service Customers cannot reach customer service representatives without struggling, waiting as long as eight hours because of cancelled or delayed flights. This situation makes call centers seek the help of conversational AI solutions that offer task automation and personalized customer service powered by NLP. NLP improves linguistic interpretation skills and response rate. In contrast to a traditional interactive voice response structure, which walks callers through a series of menus, modern conversational AI solutions immediately ask callers how they can help and quickly get them the right answer. With the help of an AI-powered solution, call center employees aren’t overwhelmed by lower-level, less complicated queries and can rely on AI to do mundane tasks that consume their time. In addition, customers can help themselves through the automation. Any complex, emotionally-driven conversations are directed to human contact centers automatically. An Airline Uses Mosaicx to Enhance the Customer Experience Intrado, a company that provides an artificial program called Mosaicx, helped an airline client decrease its call abandonment rates by 60%. The solution supports 20 languages, so global clients can be handled seamlessly. AI-powered Call Centers will be Common in the Travel Industry Businesses are swiftly adopting AI-powered conversational solutions to address the spike in flight cancellations and delays due to pilot shortage, the Great Resignation, and the permanent shift to remote working.

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Spotlight

Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa

Bordering the renowned 17th ‘Road Hole’ of the Old Course in the Home of Golf, the Old Course Hotel enjoys a spectacular location overlooking the famous links courses, the West Sands beach and the beautiful Scottish coastline.This iconic resort has been lavishly refurbished to feature luxurious suites and bedrooms with Kohler bathroom products, a majority with private balconies and views of the world-famous Old Course and the sea.Kohler Waters Spa is rated amongst the top UK Spas and provides an outstanding spa experience, including a thermal suite featuring a hydrotherapy pool, plunge pool, Japanese steam room and light therapy sauna as well as a 20-metre indoor swimming pool with waterfall and fitness suite.

Related News

Destination and Tourism, Business Travel

Sixt USA Announces New Car Rental Branch at Salt Lake City International Airport

PR Newswire | January 09, 2024

SIXT USA, a subsidiary of Sixt SE – the global leader in premium mobility services – is continuing its robust U.S. expansion with a new car rental branch opening today at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City, Utah. Car rental reservations can be made now at SIXT.com or via the SIXT app. Open just in time for ski season, the new branch is located at 395 North Wright Brothers Drive, a quick five minute shuttle ride from the airport, and is SIXT's first branch in Utah. It offers a wide selection of premium rentals specifically chosen to cater to the needs of the market including high-end SUVs, as well as standard and luxury coupes and sedans that give travelers to the Salt Lake City region a wide selection of vehicles to meet specific needs and preferences. To celebrate the opening of its new SLC location, SIXT is partnering with The Hollywood Reporter (THR) as exclusive transportation provider to THR's Festival Studio at Park City during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. Under the partnership, SIXT will have a presence in the THR Festival Studio to engage talent with the premium rental car experience that sets SIXT apart from typical rental car services. Tom Kennedy, President, SIXT USA & Canada: "As a major gateway to the Intermountain West region and with the world-class ski resorts of Deer Valley and Park City a mere 45-minute drive away, SLC is an important new location for SIXT. We are excited to bring our premium fleet and service to this dynamic and picturesque region and look forward to helping enable memorable moments for our customers by providing a premium car rental experience at an affordable price." The new SLC branch joins a growing list of recent branch openings across North America including other airport branches such as Raleigh-Durham, Jacksonville, Washington D.C. and several recent off-airport locations including Houston, Fort Worth, Toronto, Boston and Jersey City. SIXT will continue to expand in the U.S. and Canada with the opening of additional locations this year. In just a little over 10 years, the United States has become the most important growth market for SIXT. Today, SIXT operates more than 100 rental branches in 23 states, employs more than 1,700 team members, and now serves 44 of the most important airports in the U.S. In addition, by launching operations in Canada in 2022, SIXT is tapping into another billion-dollar market that also offers potential for synergies with its U.S. business.

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Travel Technology, Destination and Tourism, Commercial Travel

TCS World Travel Debuts New All-Encompassing Personalized Trips With Private Jet Options

TCS World Travel | April 28, 2023

TCS World Travel, the world’s leading operator of private jet expeditions, today unveiled eight new customizable itineraries for travelers seeking a personalized getaway with private jet, plane or first class commercial travel options. From a deep dive into some of the most remote destinations in southern Africa, to an island-hopping journey around the Mediterranean, travelers can choose from a diverse menu of all-encompassing trips that combine exclusive access and one-of-a-kind experiences with luxury accommodations in desirable destinations around the world. TCS World Travel’s Private Custom Travel arm offers guests an exclusive, private and stress-free way to travel, leveraging TCS’ wealth of knowledge, global network of connections, and on-the-ground expertise from the company’s 30 years of experience creating unforgettable Group Jet Expeditions. Guests will enjoy TCS World Travel’s exceptional service, dedication and attention to detail, and benefit from their exclusive access and insights, as their knowledgeable travel consultants plan every step of the journey. TCS can also include an experienced trip leader to travel with the group and sort out all the on-the-ground details throughout the journey. Travelers will begin with a complimentary trip consultation with TCS’ travel consultants, who will help them personalize their itinerary by choosing the perfect destinations and activities. All itineraries are completely customizable for travelers looking to build their own personalized vacations to their own unique tastes and specifications. While these itineraries are designed to spark ideas, TCS can create trips that are as over-the-top as guests wish to go. “Whether guests are planning a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list trip, multi-generational family getaway, or romantic trip with their partner, TCS World Travel has the planning and operational expertise to make the complex simple,” said Shelley Cline, President of TCS World Travel. “The unparalleled expertise of our travel consultants makes the process seamless and enjoyable from start to finish, as guests work with our team to create the trip of their dreams.” TCS’ all-encompassing curated journeys include luxury accommodations, savvy local guides, exceptional dining experiences, transfers, gratuities and end-to-end service. The trip pricing includes all accommodations and activities in the proposed itinerary, with the ability to add on a private jet or first-class commercial travel to the itinerary starting points. Select itineraries (as indicated below) include private jet travel between destinations, but TCS can arrange anything from commercial or private flights to private car service, yachts or even train travel. Choosing Private Custom Travel gives guests the freedom to travel however they desire. About TCS World Travel TCS World Travel leads the industry in private jet journeys with the experience and knowledge built from developing hundreds of trips for over 30 years. The company excels at providing unparalleled local access and exclusive activities tailored to any travel style. Circle the globe or take a dive deep into a region on a luxury private jet expedition or embark on a luxury custom journey by private charter plane created especially for you to any destination in the world.

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Commercial Travel, Industry Outlook

777 Travel Technology Is Now GO7 with a Mission to Transform Travel Brands

GO7 | February 08, 2023

On February 7, 2023, GO7, formerly 777 Travel, launched its new brand as part of a larger strategy to connect its processes, teams, and corporate portfolio around its central mission to transform travel brands by putting control back in their hands. The launch of GO7 is a significant milestone in a multi-year plan to re-architect traditional airline solutions behind the scenes. It follows the acquisition of Air Black Box, WorldTicket, and AeroCRS by 777 Partners. GO7 solidifies 777 Partners' innovative travel technology strategy, centered on developing new commerce channels for airlines and travel companies and enhancing next-generation distribution, interlining, retailing, and passenger connectivity. Over 185 network, low-cost, regional, and rail operations use the company's travel technology solutions. These include global ticketing and distribution services, loyalty and payment platforms, next-generation passenger service systems, and baggage, interlining, and disruption solutions that help airlines enable customers' connected journeys and efficiently generate revenue. GO7 is poised to pioneer industry restructuring at a time when it is essential for travel brands to transform, and its leadership team is committed to democratizing air travel and reimagining the travel experience. Meir Hadassi Turner, Chief Executive Officer of GO7, shared, "There's more passion and desire for travel from consumers than ever before, and demand is surging from new places and new operators. GO7 is an exciting moment for us and a key milestone in our journey to help airlines and travel brands meet this demand, generate more dynamic experiences and accelerate revenue growth without adding layers of complexity." He added, "This moment also recognises our valued customers and partners who have supported this journey and will be at the centre of everything through our next chapter." (Source – Cision PR Newswire) About GO7 London-based GO7 represents a fresh approach to travel technology, with the belief that airlines and other travel operators should regain control through flexible, customer-centric technology. The path to GO7 began with the acquisitions of AeroCRS, WorldTicket, and AirBlackBox by its investment firm, 777 Partners. The suite of integrated solutions provided by GO7 enables airlines to transform their commercial operations through modern, adaptable technology flexibly designed as a "one-stop" or custom solution. Over 185 airlines worldwide already utilize the firm's services, proving its foundations are solid

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Destination and Tourism, Business Travel

Sixt USA Announces New Car Rental Branch at Salt Lake City International Airport

PR Newswire | January 09, 2024

SIXT USA, a subsidiary of Sixt SE – the global leader in premium mobility services – is continuing its robust U.S. expansion with a new car rental branch opening today at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City, Utah. Car rental reservations can be made now at SIXT.com or via the SIXT app. Open just in time for ski season, the new branch is located at 395 North Wright Brothers Drive, a quick five minute shuttle ride from the airport, and is SIXT's first branch in Utah. It offers a wide selection of premium rentals specifically chosen to cater to the needs of the market including high-end SUVs, as well as standard and luxury coupes and sedans that give travelers to the Salt Lake City region a wide selection of vehicles to meet specific needs and preferences. To celebrate the opening of its new SLC location, SIXT is partnering with The Hollywood Reporter (THR) as exclusive transportation provider to THR's Festival Studio at Park City during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. Under the partnership, SIXT will have a presence in the THR Festival Studio to engage talent with the premium rental car experience that sets SIXT apart from typical rental car services. Tom Kennedy, President, SIXT USA & Canada: "As a major gateway to the Intermountain West region and with the world-class ski resorts of Deer Valley and Park City a mere 45-minute drive away, SLC is an important new location for SIXT. We are excited to bring our premium fleet and service to this dynamic and picturesque region and look forward to helping enable memorable moments for our customers by providing a premium car rental experience at an affordable price." The new SLC branch joins a growing list of recent branch openings across North America including other airport branches such as Raleigh-Durham, Jacksonville, Washington D.C. and several recent off-airport locations including Houston, Fort Worth, Toronto, Boston and Jersey City. SIXT will continue to expand in the U.S. and Canada with the opening of additional locations this year. In just a little over 10 years, the United States has become the most important growth market for SIXT. Today, SIXT operates more than 100 rental branches in 23 states, employs more than 1,700 team members, and now serves 44 of the most important airports in the U.S. In addition, by launching operations in Canada in 2022, SIXT is tapping into another billion-dollar market that also offers potential for synergies with its U.S. business.

Read More

Travel Technology, Destination and Tourism, Commercial Travel

TCS World Travel Debuts New All-Encompassing Personalized Trips With Private Jet Options

TCS World Travel | April 28, 2023

TCS World Travel, the world’s leading operator of private jet expeditions, today unveiled eight new customizable itineraries for travelers seeking a personalized getaway with private jet, plane or first class commercial travel options. From a deep dive into some of the most remote destinations in southern Africa, to an island-hopping journey around the Mediterranean, travelers can choose from a diverse menu of all-encompassing trips that combine exclusive access and one-of-a-kind experiences with luxury accommodations in desirable destinations around the world. TCS World Travel’s Private Custom Travel arm offers guests an exclusive, private and stress-free way to travel, leveraging TCS’ wealth of knowledge, global network of connections, and on-the-ground expertise from the company’s 30 years of experience creating unforgettable Group Jet Expeditions. Guests will enjoy TCS World Travel’s exceptional service, dedication and attention to detail, and benefit from their exclusive access and insights, as their knowledgeable travel consultants plan every step of the journey. TCS can also include an experienced trip leader to travel with the group and sort out all the on-the-ground details throughout the journey. Travelers will begin with a complimentary trip consultation with TCS’ travel consultants, who will help them personalize their itinerary by choosing the perfect destinations and activities. All itineraries are completely customizable for travelers looking to build their own personalized vacations to their own unique tastes and specifications. While these itineraries are designed to spark ideas, TCS can create trips that are as over-the-top as guests wish to go. “Whether guests are planning a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list trip, multi-generational family getaway, or romantic trip with their partner, TCS World Travel has the planning and operational expertise to make the complex simple,” said Shelley Cline, President of TCS World Travel. “The unparalleled expertise of our travel consultants makes the process seamless and enjoyable from start to finish, as guests work with our team to create the trip of their dreams.” TCS’ all-encompassing curated journeys include luxury accommodations, savvy local guides, exceptional dining experiences, transfers, gratuities and end-to-end service. The trip pricing includes all accommodations and activities in the proposed itinerary, with the ability to add on a private jet or first-class commercial travel to the itinerary starting points. Select itineraries (as indicated below) include private jet travel between destinations, but TCS can arrange anything from commercial or private flights to private car service, yachts or even train travel. Choosing Private Custom Travel gives guests the freedom to travel however they desire. About TCS World Travel TCS World Travel leads the industry in private jet journeys with the experience and knowledge built from developing hundreds of trips for over 30 years. The company excels at providing unparalleled local access and exclusive activities tailored to any travel style. Circle the globe or take a dive deep into a region on a luxury private jet expedition or embark on a luxury custom journey by private charter plane created especially for you to any destination in the world.

Read More

Commercial Travel, Industry Outlook

777 Travel Technology Is Now GO7 with a Mission to Transform Travel Brands

GO7 | February 08, 2023

On February 7, 2023, GO7, formerly 777 Travel, launched its new brand as part of a larger strategy to connect its processes, teams, and corporate portfolio around its central mission to transform travel brands by putting control back in their hands. The launch of GO7 is a significant milestone in a multi-year plan to re-architect traditional airline solutions behind the scenes. It follows the acquisition of Air Black Box, WorldTicket, and AeroCRS by 777 Partners. GO7 solidifies 777 Partners' innovative travel technology strategy, centered on developing new commerce channels for airlines and travel companies and enhancing next-generation distribution, interlining, retailing, and passenger connectivity. Over 185 network, low-cost, regional, and rail operations use the company's travel technology solutions. These include global ticketing and distribution services, loyalty and payment platforms, next-generation passenger service systems, and baggage, interlining, and disruption solutions that help airlines enable customers' connected journeys and efficiently generate revenue. GO7 is poised to pioneer industry restructuring at a time when it is essential for travel brands to transform, and its leadership team is committed to democratizing air travel and reimagining the travel experience. Meir Hadassi Turner, Chief Executive Officer of GO7, shared, "There's more passion and desire for travel from consumers than ever before, and demand is surging from new places and new operators. GO7 is an exciting moment for us and a key milestone in our journey to help airlines and travel brands meet this demand, generate more dynamic experiences and accelerate revenue growth without adding layers of complexity." He added, "This moment also recognises our valued customers and partners who have supported this journey and will be at the centre of everything through our next chapter." (Source – Cision PR Newswire) About GO7 London-based GO7 represents a fresh approach to travel technology, with the belief that airlines and other travel operators should regain control through flexible, customer-centric technology. The path to GO7 began with the acquisitions of AeroCRS, WorldTicket, and AirBlackBox by its investment firm, 777 Partners. The suite of integrated solutions provided by GO7 enables airlines to transform their commercial operations through modern, adaptable technology flexibly designed as a "one-stop" or custom solution. Over 185 airlines worldwide already utilize the firm's services, proving its foundations are solid

Read More

Events