What Is Augmented in Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Augmented reality has become a buzzword in recent years. It is transforming the tourism industry in ways that were once unimaginable.

Augmented reality is an immersive technology that overlays digital content onto the real world using a device such as a smartphone or tablet. In this article, we will explore what augmented reality is and how it is being used in tourism.

What Is Augmented Reality?

Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience of a real-world environment where the objects that reside in the real world are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information, sometimes across multiple sensory modalities, including visual, auditory, haptic, somatosensory and olfactory.

In simpler terms, AR involves adding digital elements to our physical world. These digital elements can be anything from images and videos to 3D models and animations. AR enhances the way we perceive our surroundings by adding an extra layer of information to our physical environment.

How Is Augmented Reality Used In Tourism?

AR has transformed the tourism industry by providing tourists with a more interactive and engaging experience. It allows tourists to explore destinations in a more immersive way than traditional tourism methods.

Here are some ways AR can be used in tourism:

1. Virtual Tours

AR can be used to create virtual tours of tourist destinations. Tourists can use their smartphones or tablets to access these tours and explore different locations within a destination without physically being there.

2. Interactive Maps

AR can also be used to create interactive maps that provide tourists with information about different locations within a destination. This information can include historical facts, restaurant recommendations, and shopping suggestions.

3. Language Translations

AR technology can also be used to translate signs and menus for tourists who don’t speak the local language. This allows tourists to navigate their way around a destination more easily.

4. Augmented Experiences

AR can be used to create augmented experiences that provide tourists with a more immersive experience. For example, AR can be used to create virtual reality experiences that allow tourists to explore destinations in a more realistic way.

The Future of Augmented Reality in Tourism

As technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for AR in tourism are endless. We can expect to see more innovative uses of AR in the future, such as:

  • AR-enabled travel apps that provide tourists with personalized recommendations based on their interests and preferences.
  • AR-enhanced hotel rooms that provide guests with an immersive experience.
  • AR-enabled tour guides that provide tourists with a more interactive and engaging experience.

In conclusion, augmented reality is transforming the tourism industry by providing tourists with a more interactive and engaging experience. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of AR in the future.