Technology continues to change the way we travel–especially over the last 20 years. With the release of the Apple Watch quickly approaching (April 24, 2015), the convenience that accompanies technology will become even more of a focus for frequent travelers and gadget lovers. With this is mind, here are some trendy new apps and technology that will make travel even easier (and maybe even more fun!) in the future:
1) Need a reservation at a popular restaurant in a major city? With apps like Table 8 in San Francisco and Los Angeles and I Know the Chef in New York City, you can buy–for a small fee–a same-day reservation at a restaurant that would normally be fully booked.
2) Choose your seat mate based on their social network profile with KLM’s Meet & Seat program. But don’t worry–you have to be registered for the program in order for your profiles to be viewed by other passengers. Registered travelers are also able to select certain aspects of their profiles to share.
Similarly, with Delta’s Innovation Class, you can book a seat next to a celebrity or industry leader when they travel to events. For example, last month, a lucky traveler was able to sit next to Ryan Lewis (Quadruple GRAMMY Award®-winning producer of Macklemore & Ryan Lewis) on his flight to attend the GRAMMYs.
3) Are you looking for some company and an authentic local dining experience on your next business trip? Websites like bookalokal.com and eatwith.com will connect you with local people to host you for dinner either at a restaurant or in their own home. Both of these services are available in select cities worldwide.
4) Payment is going mobile with apps like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Uber, Airbnb, and OpenTable are now accepting payment through the app. In addition, more and more establishments are installing the technology to accept mobile payment.
5) If you don’t have time to plan activities before your trip, you might be interested in the Trover app, which allows you to view photos and reviews posted by other travelers. There are also a few peer-to-peer sightseeing services such as Vayable.com where you can connect with a local person to get the most authentic experience.
Technology is definitely bringing people together, even when they are on the road for business. Which of these apps or websites will you use on your next trip?
