Did you ever wonder about traveling in 2040 – What it could be like?
Technology is already revolutionizing almost every aspect of our lives. Augmented and virtual reality is already taking over industries such as education, tourism, and restaurants. The way we travel is no exception. By 2040 the way we visit other cities and countries (maybe even other planets!) will be so much different than what we are used to today. Experts note that technology will take over almost every aspect of travel by then – from packing your bags to checking in at the hotel. Here are 10 ways in which technology will change the way we go on holiday.
Easier communication with locals:
We already have translator apps on our smartphones but the future promises us something more. It is said that earbuds are already in development that can immediately and automatically translate foreign languages. This will help tourists who are a bit nervous in new places.
AR-projected landmarks in sunglasses:
Travelers will be able to flip a switch on an ordinary pair of sunglasses to find out more about a certain landmark. Tourists will be able to walk by something and, by activating the feature, an overlay appears that gives them an interactive and informative experience.
Auckland to Sydney flights will be faster than commuting:
Boom Technologies, a start-up airplane builder, is already working on supersonic jets that will reduce flight time. This will change New Zealand’s travel in particular. Hong Kong will be only 3 hours away – much faster than the current 11 hours!
Sensual experiences without leaving home:
Virtual reality will be so life-like by that time that travelers can travel without leaving home. They will be able to use all their senses to experience a certain place without going there. People have argued that this might eliminate the need for travel, but experts note that it will only increase travelers’ curiosity.
Your face is your passport and boarding pass:
Facial recognition systems will be employed at all airports which will eventually cause paper documents to become redundant. This will make airport security more efficient with the help of iris and fingerprint scanning.
Trips to the moon:
Virgin Galactic is already selling tickets for people who want to visit the moon but these trips will become more and more frequent in 2040. Current moon tickets are $250,000 so perhaps it will be a bit cheaper as well!
Say goodbye to suitcases:
Passengers will be able to travel without suitcases because hotels will have 3D garment printing services available. Travelers can send in their measurements before a trip and have their clothes ready when they get there. It is said to be a cheaper option than buying clothes.
Cruises run on clean energy:
All transport companies will become more eco-friendly in 2040 including cruise liners. Cruise operators have already started building ships that run on liquefied natural gas to eliminate their carbon footprint.
Pilot-less electric planes:
Self-driving cars are already a reality but how would travelers feel about self-flying planes? Experts note that the technology will be available in 2040 but it will only be successful if the public trusts it.
Holograms will run check-in desks:
Artificial intelligent assistants will greet tourists at the hotel’s reception and some hotels might even have robotic luggage carriers!