The impact of virtual and augmented reality on tourism and travel

Augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) have greatly revolutionized many aspects of life. As soon as this technology appeared, many people predicted a grand future for it, but in fact, it took time for truly mass products to appear. It took time for specialists to learn how to develop programs in this area, but now we have already reached this very point. Virtual reality is more accessible than ever, thousands of games, including casino games in almost any casino online thailand, a lot of educational and entertainment programs. But how can this technology be applied in tourism? Traveling is about life to the fullest, there is nothing more real, how can it be transferred to the virtual space or supplemented? Undeniably, the travel and tourism industries are also among the impacted spheres, dramatically altering how traveling is viewed. Here you are introduced to how VR and AR have changed this sector. 

Much better marketing and advertising. Through much more engaging and interactive content, travel agencies are able to attract more customers to use their services. They may create virtual tour experiences through VR and AR, 36-degree video content, and augmented reality content to make viewers experience the beauty of the desired destinations. 

1. Virtual exploration of the desired destination. VR allows travelers to explore the destination through virtual content before visiting it in person. With the help of immersive experiences, potential travelers may navigate the replicas of desired hotels, resorts, landmarks, and attractions. This helps them make more informed and reasonable decisions and get some idea of what experience awaits them. 
2. Virtual traveling. Modern VR technologies allow us to “visit” a place without personally being there. VR headsets allow them to feel and hear the real sounds of nature and immerse themselves in the environment they want to visit. 
3. Training of guides. VR technology allows making travel guide training much more interactive and money-efficient. For example, they can familiarize themselves with certain travel scenarios without being obliged to be personally in the environment. VR allows us to train the essential skills for being an effective guide in providing realistic learning environments.
4. Protection of cultural heritage. VR and AR technologies enable 3D options for historical sites and artifacts. Those digital content may help travelers enjoy items and sites with great historical value without causing any damage to them. This way guarantees the protection of artifacts and sites of historical value and, at the same time, enables us to learn about them from any angle of the world. 
5. Remote collaboration and booking opportunities. Nowadays, travel agents or representatives of travel companies can be in different places simultaneously to discuss topics related to the sector. Virtual meetings and presentations have become a common practice among such service providers. Moreover, travelers can book anytime and anywhere they want with the help of some clicks. 
6. Personalized travel experiences. Real-time guidance and information enhance the travelers’ experience, making it more personalized. AR technology may provide thorough information about landmarks, historical artifacts, and sites. You do not need to waste much time listening to what you already know. Instead, you may personalize the information according to your preferences. 

Challenges of the usage of VR and AR in the travel industry 

Along with the benefits mentioned above, there are also some drawbacks of AR and VR technologies used in the travel industry, which need to be considered. 

1. High price and accessibility. Because of its high cost, VR/AR technologies may not be affordable for every traveler worldwide. 
2. Lack of authenticity and real-world experiences. Although VR and AR technologies promise to provide real-life experiences, it is important to remember that they are merely virtual replicas of the desired destinations. To some extent, they cannot provide the same experiences as visiting those places personally. 
3. Social interaction. Traveling is a social experience that supposes real-life interaction and communication. However, VR/AR technologies provide different opportunities. 
4. Overdependence on technology. Reducing real-world experiences is one of the main disadvantages of using VR/AR technologies in the travel industry. Keeping the balance between virtual reality and real-world experiences is essential for any travel experience.