Travel is a passion of mine. I like discovering new places and feeling free of obligations while I’m away from home. Technology has made a big impact on the travel industry, from being able to see pictures all over the world, to using a GPS, or checking on a flight status in real time.
Recently I looked over one of the newest technologies to enter the field of travel to see what avid travelers can expect. You’ve probably heard of Alexa, Amazon’s digital assistant, but have you asked for travel tips or assistance?
Here’s how you can make the most of your next trip by using a digital assistant.
Create a Travel Bucket list
Alexa is a great place to find out news, information, and make lists of places you’d like to visit. Ask Alexa to tell you about a cool travel destination. If you like the location described, you can ask Alexa to add it to your travel bucket list.
“Alexa ask Travel Bucket what is on my bucket list.”
Plan the trip of your dreams
If you like traveling as much as I do, you probably have a bucket list of places you’d like to see. Figure out the best time to visit and decide what to see while you’re there by using the Lonely Planet skill on Alexa. If you decide to add it to your list, you can ask Alexa to send a follow-up email with a free travel guide to that destination.
“Alexa, ask Lonely Planet to help me plan my trip.“
Find travel bargains
If you have a flexible schedule or a long bucket list, you might pick your next destination from a list of flight deals from major US airports. Choose a departure or destination city and ask Alexa what flight deals are available.
“Alexa, ask Flight Deals for deals to London.”
Find alternative travel accommodations
Many travelers with children find that leasing a fully furnished residence is more convenient than a traditional hotel. Corporate housing is an excellent alternative that provides everything you need to travel comfortably as a family, including stocked kitchens, internet connections, and TVs. These luxurious accommodations are professionally maintained and typically have access to a pool and other family-friendly amenities. But the real secret is that the adults can put the kids to bed in a separate bedroom and stream a movie before turning in themselves.
“Alexa, ask streaming titles for a movie recommendation.“
Use concierge services
You may discover upon arrival that your hosts have provided answers about your vacation rental, places to see, and dinner recommendations. If they haven’t, no worries because you can ask Alexa for directions, locations of popular restaurants, and travel tips for most cities.
“Alexa, what is the closest coffee shop?”
Check on flight status
Don’t leave for the airport without checking to see if your flight is running on time. Alexa can give you the latest flight status on the day you’re set to fly. You’ll need the airline name and the flight number.
“Alexa, ask Flight Tracker for United 262.”
Get directions or check on traffic
Before you head out sightseeing in the UK, check the status of the motorways. Alexa can give you the latest information on accidents, closures, and maintenance work in England, Scotland, and Wales.
“Alexa, ask UK Roads for the status of the M25.”
Take Alexa with you on the road
Make the most of your next trip by using your digital assistant. Alexa is a great way to get interesting travel tips, hear about new destinations, or check your flight status. After all of the helpful suggestions, you can take Alexa with you on your trip with a simple battery attachment that makes it a portable device.