Women In Travel – Focus On The Future

Over the past year, Canadian Travel Press’ Women In Travel series has featured some remarkable individuals who impact the industry, both in Canada and around the world. In the first of a two-part end-of-the-year roundup article, some of the experts previously profiled in the section reveal what they think will disrupt the travel industry in 2019.

Gillian Tans, CEO of Booking.com

“There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and speech recognition. For 2019, we can expect to see these tech disruptors offering practical solutions for travellers. Keyless room-access with your phone, real-time luggage tracking through mobile apps, and robotic concierges with the ability to communicate with guests in their mother tongue, are just a few of the innovations that will provide convenience and peace of mind to travellers.”

Adrienne Lee, director of programs & partnerships, Tourism Cares

“2018 saw the tipping point and recognition of how unnecessary plastic straws were for our industry and across the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries as a whole. I think (and hope!) the big disruptor for the travel industry in 2019 will be the commitment and phasing out of one-time use plastics and plastic water bottles which would make a huge environmental impact worldwide.”

For the full forecast, check the 2019 Forecast Issue of Canadian Travel Press.