Upgrading the airport experience.Taking the passenger experience into account in every detail, Helsinki Airport is providing travellers with its new ‘MyFlight’ service, aiming to make their journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. The service offers a range of personalized information, including a passenger checklist, an airport map, and up-to-date details on airport services en route to the departure gate. No more running around trying to find the gate – ‘MyFlight’ will remind passengers about boarding and any last-minute changes.
It’s time for chatbots. Two giants from the travel industry, Shiji and Amadeus have integrated their AI chatbots to facilitate the process of researching information and making bookings. The integration will enable Shiji ReviewPro Guest Communications users to be directed to the Amadeus booking flow. Once users fill in their details and are ready to book, they will be redirected to the iHotelier Booking Engine page. The chatbot will also enable guests to receive more personalized offers and shopping experiences, while hoteliers can add value to their direct booking channel.
Smart tourism kick-off. The city of Montevideo is about to become the latest Smart Tourist Destination, joining six other Ibero-American cities. The methodology analyzes governance, innovation, tech, accessibility, and sustainability. Being a smart destination is no easy feat, as it involves a major challenge that requires public and private entities to work together – but we can’t wait to see this process unfold!
Go ahead and pitch it!Are you a startup founder looking to make a big impact in the industry? Then this is for you. The EU-Startups Summit is hosting a Pitch Competition in Barcelona on April 20-21; trust me, you do not want to miss it. Rub shoulders with the top people in the industry and get the exposure your startup deserves. I’m hoping to see plenty of travel tech enthusiasts in the audience! But hurry, applications are closing soon…
Amenities on autopilot. Owners of short-term rentals can count on Sojo to forget about running to the store to stock up on shampoo bottles and toilet paper rolls for their short-term rental guests. The Texas-based startup has just raised $6.2 million in Series A funding. With this cash injection, Sojo plans to take its amenity automation platform for short-term rentals to the next level.
From here to there, and everywhere. Amsterdam-based startup Transferz has raised €6.5 million to help expand its mobility solution. The startup works with travel companies to offer pre-booked transportation products, letting them add their own branding for a customized touch. The platform already counts more than 750 airports, train stations, and seaports in their pocket. The fresh funding will enhance their tech and expand to offer even more options, including public transit like trains and buses.
No more crazy hours.Paris-born startup Brigad has secured €33 million in a funding round. Brigad is the platform that connects talented and flexible chefs, waiters, bartenders, and front-of-house staff with the businesses that need them, allowing both sides to be more dynamic and adaptable. The startup aims to give employees the ability to regain control over their schedule and get better pay and prospects. The investment will take Brigad to new heights, with plans to expand to more European cities and offer the community even more tools and events. Seems like there is a new go-to place for management teams looking to streamline their staffing and payroll administration.
