Travel 2.0
April 2008
Did You Know
If you’re not yet a pro at Web 2.0, well, try not to feel too left out.
While Internet technology has caused sweeping changes in most industries, many consider travel (and meeting planning, for that matter) to be a bit behind the curve.But, although the Internet will never be able to replace timeless activities like lounging at the pool, a round of golf or face-to-face meetings, it can help iron out some of the hassles. One time-saving strategy that should please both you and your attendees is a new program by Hyatt Hotels & Resorts that allows guests to check-in and check-out of their hotel rooms completely online. While “Web-In” was previously available to Hyatt’s Gold Passport loyalty members, the “Web-Out” feature is entirely new. Now, both options are available to all Hyatt guests, at more than 100 of its North American properties.
This is how it works: After 1 p.m. on the day of arrival, guests may go to the hyatt.com website to check into their rooms; keys will be ready for pickup from a lobby kiosk. When it comes time to head out, guests receive an e-mail of their account; they can then review it via laptop or PDA and simply click a button to check-out. They are immediately e-mailed a copy of the bill with a “0” balance—a necessary document for almost every business traveler who needs to track expenses.
Hyatt’s program closely resembles a similar option by Omni Hotels. Launched in January, the Omni technology is designed particularly for mobile devices, but essentially offers the same online check-in/check-out capabilities. In addition, the service is designed to aid the traveler while on the road, providing maps and directions to the hotel.
While this technology could enable planners to manage individual check-in/check-out duties for attendees, both hotel brands are also working on upgrades to their systems that will allow even more virtual control. Omni will soon permit guests to request hotel services (housekeeping, valet, room service) online, before they arrive or even during their stay. And Hyatt has plans to allow guests to pre-select their room from a virtual floor plan of the hotel, much like airline passengers do when booking seats online with certain carriers. hyatt.com; omnihotels.com
