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The future of the travel industry is full of bright ideas. Players in tourism, big and small, are making big strides to create more equitable, eco-forward, and all-embracing ways to explore our world—all while taking much greater care of her, and the local communities that we love to visit. From groundbreaking technologies to social programs seeking to influence the broader industry, we’re spotlighting eight of this year’s brightest travel innovations.
Silversea Cruises
Thanks to a mix of hybrid technology, Silversea’s Silver Nova will be the first low-emissions luxury cruise ship in the brand’s new-build Nova fleet when it launches next July. It will be entirely emissions-free while at port (an industry first), with suites that generate 40 percent fewer greenhouse-gas emissions than the company’s previous class of ships.
Proper Hospitality
American hotel brand Proper Hospitality has brought tipping into the 21st century, developing an app system that allows guests to scan the QR codes of eligible employees, carried on their person. No more fumbling awkwardly for cash again.
Alphabet Inc.
One of Alphabet Inc.’s latest bright ideas might break down language barriers for good. While still in the prototype phase, its glasses will translate what you’re seeing or hearing in real-time, using A.R. technology to project closed-captioning in front of the lenses.
Atlantis The Royal Dubai
Opening this fall, Dubai’s Atlantis The Royal used the past to inform its sustainable design: Taking inspiration from ancient courtyards, it’s strategically stacked to create shade and foster airflow to its indoor and outdoor spaces, providing natural energy efficiency.
Klawock Cruise Port
Next year Alaska’s new Klawock cruise port will start bringing travelers on Oceania Cruises—and new revenue—to a nearby Tlingit village, with locals leading tours and activities.
Niarra Travel
London-based tour operator Niarra Travel is hoping to change industry norms by halving the standard 20 percent commission on bookings and investing the other 10 percent in conservation and communities in the destinations it serves, like South Africa and Costa Rica.
Air4All
Air4All, a patented system set to hit the market in the coming years, will allow power-wheelchair users to board planes while still in their chairs. The design enables an airline seat to fold up and securely lock in a variety of wheelchair sizes—a game changer for travelers with disabilities who have avoided flying.
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