Three companies that use technology to support travel
The constant need to travel more quickly, more efficiently, and more safely – especially due to Covid-19 – has led to technology on travel to become even more significant.
From contactless check-in and multiple cable hotspots, to digital keys and virtual apps, companies are continually coming up with new ways to increase their digital offerings.
Please find information on three such companies below.
NEW: Keep on track, with Pied A Terre Adventures’ Virtual App
Pied A Terre Adventures was co-founded by husband-and-wife team, Richard and Kirstie Betts. Together, they have 10 years’ experience arranging walking adventures, courses and challenges in the UK and beyond. Following Covid-19, Pied A Terre Adventures’ now offers a selection of self-guided breaks where every walker will have access to a personalised Virtual Guide. This brand-new mobile application allows customers to access their own programme, trail notes, top sights and adventure pack. In addition, they will have the local knowledge of Pied A Terre Adventures’ expert guides at the tap of a button. The Virtual Guide will also plot the route via OS Maps, share insights to local flora and fauna and recommend places to eat and drink. These new self-guided adventures provide inspirational, quality and sustainable walking experiences, allowing guests to escape, reconnect and engage in nature. Each trip is meticulously tailored to those taking part, and Pied A Terre Adventures will create a personalised itinerary, organise every bag transfer, make sure all equipment is in order, coordinate with each accommodation, and be on hand 24/7. Make the most of this new App on the Western Wander in the South Downs. This new, 77 km four-day walking break, encompasses a stunning section of the South Downs Way. Starting in the historic city of Winchester and finishing at the characterful village of Amberley, admire the many historic treasures, tranquil rivers and rolling farmland on route. The five-night self-guided trip, available all year, costs from £525 pp (based on two people sharing a room with an en-suite bathroom) including breakfast; virtual guide and OS Map App; personalised itinerary; full route plan, trail notes and GPS; nature spotters guide; local history, heritage and geology information; treats for the walk; children’s adventure pack (if required); recommended refreshment stops; bag transfers; full support from Pied A Terre Adventures’ Sussex HQ before, and during the trip, 24/7.
Pied A Terre Adventures (01403 788994, www.patadventures.com)
The KitzSki Pure Card – Innovation and Sustainability in the Austrian Tirol
Those visiting the beautiful Alpine resort of Kitzbühel in the Austrian Alps are encouraged to purchase a KitzSki Pure Card. Launched last winter and made from 100% recyclable, locally sourced Tirolean wood, the credit card sized pass is a world first, and can be used to access the mountain lifts in both the winter ski and summer hiking seasons. Developed by SKIDATA, an international leader in the field of access solutions, the KitzSki Pure Card can be purchased for €3 at the lift stations, or if bought online it can personalised with the holder’s name engraved on it. The microchipped card allows holidaymakers to easily and contactlessly pass through the turnstiles and can be kept indefinitely, with the ability to remotely load day, week and season ticket passes on to it at any time. Kitzbühel is the perfect base for UK holidaymakers wanting to get active in the Alps and for those wanting to explore the entire region at any time of year. Situated at an altitude of between 800 – 2,000 metres, the town enjoys stunning mountain views and a traditional Austrian feel with boutique hotels, independent shops, and period architecture. A seven-night stay in a twin room at the delightful four-star Q Hotel Maria Theresia in Kitzbühel, on a half board basis, arriving 8 January 2022, is priced from £1,221 pp and Includes return flights from London Gatwick to Salzburg.
Inghams (01483 698099, www.inghams.co.uk)
Kitzbühel: www.kitzbuehel.com
Austrian Tirol: www.visittirol.co.uk
Tap in and tap out, at Les Villages Nature® Paris, France
Les Villages Nature® Paris is situated 32 km from Paris and 6 km from Disneyland® Paris. Combining nature, architecture, sustainability and learning, it is designed for guests to immerse themselves in experiences, make the most of the great outdoors and discover something new. Comprising five immersive worlds, this unique destination offers something for everyone and is perfect for families. An integral part of Les Villages Nature® Paris is that it’s paper free – this is possible through an online check-in process, Wi-Fi throughout the area, and a detailed App guests can download prior to visiting. Furthermore, on arrival, everyone is given an electronic bracelet that acts as the key to the cottage or apartment, plus the key to a locker in the changing room, and a way in which to store points accrued at the Action Factory. Using the App, guests can also link their credit card to their bracelet in order to purchase items and meals across the park (limits can be set in advance so everything stays within budget). This electric system makes it all the more exciting for kids (and big kids) and the resort more green. Plenty more eco credentials can be seen in the park: wildflowers are allowed (and encouraged) to grow, nine beehives produce 400 kg of honey each year, the buildings are coated in vibrant vertical wall gardens, and the incredible geothermal energy keeps the Aqualagon® at a toasty 30°C throughout the year. These strong-green values are emphasised to the guests too, with many of the activities (more than 100 in total) designed to encourage time spent with nature, boost knowledge of the ecosystem and take away some key life skills. A three-night stay, from Friday 17 September 2021, costs from €576 / £495 total, for a one-bedroom self-catered Premium Apartment (sleeping two).
Les Villages Nature® Paris: www.lesvillagesnature.com/gb-en
