Ten of the latest game-changing advances in travel tech
By collecting valuable research data, citizen science is a hands-on way travellers can help give back to the destinations they visit. Not too long ago, expensive hardware made researchers reluctant to hand over the controls to inexperienced travellers, but advancements and cheaper technology are opening new opportunities. Guests at Ritz-Carlton Maldives can aid turtle conservationists by piloting drones (after completing simulation training) to detect harmful ocean plastic and ghost nets, and at Tanzania's Usangu Expedition Camp they can help set up camera traps to monitor big cat activity. The iNaturalist app has also gamified conservation tourism by helping travellers collect wildlife sightings much like Pokemon. Antarctic cruise operator HX encourages travellers to download the app once onboard to help document whale, seal and penguin sightings on a voyage to the White Continent. See ritzcarlton.com; inaturalist.org; travelhx.com
GPS self-guided tours
Elon Musk's SpaceX has ambitious plans to launch thousands of satellites into orbit, with a record number of satellites launched in 2024. More satellites armed with next-gen technology will lead to stronger GPS systems, which is making independent travel more accessible. Australia-based European adventure company UTracks now provides hikers with a GPS-enabled app designed to help them navigate the trail and alert them if they go off-course. Closer to home, Australian Cycle Tours has developed a similar app that gives cyclists turn-by-turn instructions and statistics, such as distance covered, while suggesting local sights, cafes and restaurants for a pitstop. See utracks.com; australiancycletours.com.au
Hotel service goes digital
One legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic is that it forced companies, such as Hilton Hotels, to adopt socially distanced digital room keys that can be downloaded to your phone. That innovation has since diverted hundreds of tonnes of plastic cards, so expect it to become more widespread as hotels increasingly go green. Also on the rise are AI-powered concierges such as Jean, the digital butler recently introduced at Park Regis by Prince Singapore. Jean can be called on for room service or to help decide how to spend your day in Singapore. Marriott Hotels has also created Renai, which merges staff insights with ChatGPT and other open-source data to create local recommendations. See seibuprince.com; marriott.com
Smart gate tech rolls out
Last year, Sydney's International Airport joined the rollout of SmartGate systems across Australia, joining Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth in the move to the new Gen 3 technology, reducing the time it takes to clear customs. While biometric technology has been in airports for a while now, a push for frictionless travel will see automated electronic gates introduced at border crossings and ports. Testing is already underway in Malaysia, Singapore, Bhutan, India and Zimbabwe, with updated algorithms that can adapt to a growing problem with deepfakes and spoofing, such as fake fingerprints and facial masks.
Power banks tighten up
In April, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways and other Asian carriers tightened their rules on carrying lithium-ion power bank battery packs due to the fire risk posed by overheating. Battery packs can still be taken onboard along with other carry-on items, but travellers won't be allowed to use it, charge it using seat-back power outlets, or place it in overhead lockers. South Korea has indicated it will also require battery packs to be stored in a plastic bag. Virgin Australia and Qantas currently allow power banks to be used or charged onboard and don't plan to change their policies, although Qantas advises against using power banks during flights.
Drones take flight
Aided by AI and armed with specialist accessories, drones are now being deployed to do more than just capture sweeping beach panoramas. Case in point: New Zealand, Spain, France and the United States are trialling lifeguard drones to patrol tourist beaches and deliver life vests to struggling swimmers. Drones armed with bacteria-destroying ultraviolet light are being used to clean airports and aircraft cabins, while cities such as Dubai, Shanghai and Miami are embracing environmentally friendly drone light shows instead of fireworks. Australia has joined in on the aerial entertainment with Wintjiri Wiru, a light show at Uluru that brings Aboriginal storytelling to life using 1200 drones. See northernterritory.com
Loading
Emission-free flights
With the International Air Transport Association aiming to achieve net zero by 2050, the race is on to decarbonise Australia's aviation industry, which produces about 5 per cent of Australia's carbon emissions. Smaller Australian aviation companies are already retrofitting existing aircraft with green propulsion systems, such as Kite Magnetics in Victoria and Stralis in Queensland. But fleet manufacturers such as Boeing will need more time to adapt, transitioning to blended fuels made from waste by-products before switching entirely to electric. Perth-based FlyOnE is expecting to offer fully electric commercial flights later this year, with cheaper emission-free air travel to be more widespread in the next five years. See stralis.aero; flyone.com.au
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sky News AU
4 hours ago
- Sky News AU
'Poop cruise' Netflix documentary exposes 2013 nightmare aboard Carnival Triumph, featuring chaos, gross conditions
A newly released documentary on Netflix has continued to draw attention from viewers about how a vacation turned into a nightmare. The film covers the Carnival Triumph ship — which departed from Galveston, Texas, and set sail to Cozumel, Mexico for a four-night stay in Feb. 2013. The documentary, "Trainwreck: Poop Cruise," explores the incident in which an engine fire left 4,000 passengers stranded at sea without power and dubbed the incident the "poop cruise," according to Netflix's website. Passengers were stranded for about five days until finally making it to Mobile, Alabama. A Carnival spokesperson told Fox News Digital the incident from over 12 years ago was a teachable moment for the entire cruise industry. "A thorough investigation following the incident revealed a design vulnerability," the statement said, "which was corrected and led Carnival Cruise Line to invest more than $500 million across our entire fleet in comprehensive fire prevention and suppression, improved redundancy and enhanced management systems, all in support of our commitment to robust safety standards." The company's statement continued, "We are proud of the fact that since 2013 over 53 million guests have enjoyed safe and memorable vacations with us, and we will continue to operate to these high standards." The documentary features interviews with passengers, who shared their accounts of defecating in biohazard bags, seeing fights break out, having no power and revealing the chaos that unfolded aboard. Stewart Chiron, a Miami-based cruise industry expert known as "The Cruise Guy," told Fox News Digital the Carnival Triumph disaster was an unfortunate situation. Chiron said the incident "highlighted the significant safety measures available at that moment in time and lessons learned, as it has never happened again." "The ship did exactly what it was supposed to do and preserved lives," he added. "While the passengers and crew were uncomfortable, they were safe. Food and supplies were replenished by other ships sailing in the area as it was towed to Mobile, Alabama." Viewers have taken to social media to share comments about the outrageous incident. "Not me, watching the Netflix documentary about the 2013 carnival cruise that turned into a poop cruise," said one woman on X. Another X user posted, "OK, listen, hear me out. Other than the crew, who all seemed GREAT, these people seemed unbearable and really dramatic." Said another person, "My favorite part of the 'Trainwreck: Poop Cruise' situation was the part when all the toilets stopped working and they had no power, so they thought, 'We should open the bars and give everyone free booze.'" One X user wrote, "'Trainwreck: Poop Cruise' on Netflix is a perfect documentary to show how Americans would not be surviving a war on their soil for a single week." The same user called out "the audacity, incapability to handle inconvenience and the absolute lack of community and empathy for others in a crisis." An X user posted, "Oh, the entitled cruise passengers are the worst!" "So, you've never been camping, done a missions trip, been hospitalized for any period of time, walked your dog, gone to a music festival? Just poop in the bag! You made the sewage problem so much worse," the same user added. Originally published as 'Poop cruise' Netflix documentary exposes 2013 nightmare aboard Carnival Triumph, featuring chaos, gross conditions
The Advertiser
4 hours ago
- The Advertiser
The front line: Border Force search for locals to work at new international terminal
DO you have what it takes? As Newcastle Airport prepares to launch international flights later this year, the Australian Border Force (ABF) is on the hunt for Hunter locals to join the nation's border protection and customs service. With an influx of passengers expected, the ABF Newcastle District Office is set to carry out customs and immigration clearances required for travellers passing in and out of the new international terminal. Acting Assistant Commissioner East Rose Cracknell said she and the team are looking for people who have a keen interest in border protection and ABF functions, but want to live locally. "We are looking for people to wear the ABF uniform with pride. This is our opportunity to showcase the Hunter region and our capability to an entirely new cohort of travellers and visitors," she said. "This is an important support role for our officers, as we are often the first impression for international tourists arriving in Australia. "We pride ourselves in making that a positive experience." The roles on offer are casual and include a range of administrative and operational support duties, including processing passengers at Newcastle Airport and handling other support tasks. The new two-storey international terminal is expected to open in August, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass with views to the Williamtown RAAF base. Other features include a boarding bridge, a glass elevator, an underground baggage tunnel and duty-free retail. Jetstar announced it would operate Newcastle Airport's first year-round international route in June, with direct flights to Bali starting from October 21. Ms Cracknell said the opening of the terminal, with three international flights each week from October, means more officers will be needed on a casual, flexible basis. "As well as working at the airport processing passengers, you will also have the opportunity to support a wide range of functions," she said. "We are excited to offer these casual roles to Hunter-based residents and believe it will offer tremendous opportunities and open up a world of experiences for the successful candidates." DO you have what it takes? As Newcastle Airport prepares to launch international flights later this year, the Australian Border Force (ABF) is on the hunt for Hunter locals to join the nation's border protection and customs service. With an influx of passengers expected, the ABF Newcastle District Office is set to carry out customs and immigration clearances required for travellers passing in and out of the new international terminal. Acting Assistant Commissioner East Rose Cracknell said she and the team are looking for people who have a keen interest in border protection and ABF functions, but want to live locally. "We are looking for people to wear the ABF uniform with pride. This is our opportunity to showcase the Hunter region and our capability to an entirely new cohort of travellers and visitors," she said. "This is an important support role for our officers, as we are often the first impression for international tourists arriving in Australia. "We pride ourselves in making that a positive experience." The roles on offer are casual and include a range of administrative and operational support duties, including processing passengers at Newcastle Airport and handling other support tasks. The new two-storey international terminal is expected to open in August, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass with views to the Williamtown RAAF base. Other features include a boarding bridge, a glass elevator, an underground baggage tunnel and duty-free retail. Jetstar announced it would operate Newcastle Airport's first year-round international route in June, with direct flights to Bali starting from October 21. Ms Cracknell said the opening of the terminal, with three international flights each week from October, means more officers will be needed on a casual, flexible basis. "As well as working at the airport processing passengers, you will also have the opportunity to support a wide range of functions," she said. "We are excited to offer these casual roles to Hunter-based residents and believe it will offer tremendous opportunities and open up a world of experiences for the successful candidates." DO you have what it takes? As Newcastle Airport prepares to launch international flights later this year, the Australian Border Force (ABF) is on the hunt for Hunter locals to join the nation's border protection and customs service. With an influx of passengers expected, the ABF Newcastle District Office is set to carry out customs and immigration clearances required for travellers passing in and out of the new international terminal. Acting Assistant Commissioner East Rose Cracknell said she and the team are looking for people who have a keen interest in border protection and ABF functions, but want to live locally. "We are looking for people to wear the ABF uniform with pride. This is our opportunity to showcase the Hunter region and our capability to an entirely new cohort of travellers and visitors," she said. "This is an important support role for our officers, as we are often the first impression for international tourists arriving in Australia. "We pride ourselves in making that a positive experience." The roles on offer are casual and include a range of administrative and operational support duties, including processing passengers at Newcastle Airport and handling other support tasks. The new two-storey international terminal is expected to open in August, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass with views to the Williamtown RAAF base. Other features include a boarding bridge, a glass elevator, an underground baggage tunnel and duty-free retail. Jetstar announced it would operate Newcastle Airport's first year-round international route in June, with direct flights to Bali starting from October 21. Ms Cracknell said the opening of the terminal, with three international flights each week from October, means more officers will be needed on a casual, flexible basis. "As well as working at the airport processing passengers, you will also have the opportunity to support a wide range of functions," she said. "We are excited to offer these casual roles to Hunter-based residents and believe it will offer tremendous opportunities and open up a world of experiences for the successful candidates." DO you have what it takes? As Newcastle Airport prepares to launch international flights later this year, the Australian Border Force (ABF) is on the hunt for Hunter locals to join the nation's border protection and customs service. With an influx of passengers expected, the ABF Newcastle District Office is set to carry out customs and immigration clearances required for travellers passing in and out of the new international terminal. Acting Assistant Commissioner East Rose Cracknell said she and the team are looking for people who have a keen interest in border protection and ABF functions, but want to live locally. "We are looking for people to wear the ABF uniform with pride. This is our opportunity to showcase the Hunter region and our capability to an entirely new cohort of travellers and visitors," she said. "This is an important support role for our officers, as we are often the first impression for international tourists arriving in Australia. "We pride ourselves in making that a positive experience." The roles on offer are casual and include a range of administrative and operational support duties, including processing passengers at Newcastle Airport and handling other support tasks. The new two-storey international terminal is expected to open in August, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass with views to the Williamtown RAAF base. Other features include a boarding bridge, a glass elevator, an underground baggage tunnel and duty-free retail. Jetstar announced it would operate Newcastle Airport's first year-round international route in June, with direct flights to Bali starting from October 21. Ms Cracknell said the opening of the terminal, with three international flights each week from October, means more officers will be needed on a casual, flexible basis. "As well as working at the airport processing passengers, you will also have the opportunity to support a wide range of functions," she said. "We are excited to offer these casual roles to Hunter-based residents and believe it will offer tremendous opportunities and open up a world of experiences for the successful candidates."
SBS Australia
a day ago
- SBS Australia
Australians in '$280 million Euro summer surge' — and emerging holiday hotspots
European summer spending is set for a rebound, one of Australia's biggest banks predicts, with travellers also looking to other destinations to escape the winter at home. ANZ says customers travelling to Europe across June, July, and August will spend up to $280 million — a projected 10 per cent increase compared to 2024 which it says is based on early trends in hotel and airline bookings. It says pre-travel spending data showed that between January and May, hotel and airline bookings were up 11 per cent on the same period last year. The projected total spend won't match the record of $313 million set in 2023, ANZ said. But it will be an uptick from 2024 where, despite more than 100,000 of its customers travelling to Europe, total spend and average spend per customer were down 19 per cent and 13 per cent respectively, compared to the previous year. Beyond saying travel to Europe among its customers had "dipped" in 2024, ANZ in its statement did not explain why it believes there might be an increase in total spending this year — although not one that would match the 2023 record. Some measures show consumer confidence — which predicts how consumers feel about the economy and their own finances — has improved since 2024. But it's also higher than in 2023. Interest rates , however, have fallen from the 12-year high which carried from late 2023 through 2024. That has eased mortgage repayments, though disposable incomes haven't significantly increased. Like Australia, Europe also battled a period of high inflation. Inflation in the European Union peaked at 11.5 per cent in late 2022 and has since cooled. Falling inflation doesn't necessarily equate to lower prices, it just means prices are growing at a slower rate — unless inflation turns negative. Additionally, a recent analysis showed that a drop in jet fuel prices had lowered airfares. Global capacity — meaning seats on planes — was also up on last year and pre-pandemic levels, contributing to falling costs, according to corporate travel advisors FCM Consulting. "Our data shows that customers are reigniting their passion for European travel. We're seeing strong growth in early planning activity," said Yiken Yang, ANZ's managing director of everyday banking. "While we may not hit the $313 million peak of 2023, 2025 is shaping up as a vibrant resurgence for the travel sector." ANZ said non-European destinations in 2024 saw a 3 per cent increase in spend for the June-August period. Indonesia, New Zealand, Thailand and Japan were among the most popular destinations, ANZ said, which is consistent with what the Australian Bureau of Statistics says are countries favoured by holidaymakers. It also said Hong Kong and Sri Lanka were "emerging hotspots" and recording "significant" year-on-year growth in spend.
