A new idea, claimed as a global first by founder Marc Blachowitz of PhotoDeli, is designed to effectively be a digital concierge that not only lists items of interest, tours, key tourist attractions, recommended restaurants and shows to see while in town, but also allows the user to enquire, find out more and even book them online.
Like PhotoDeli's primary offering, a photo-book with user-generated images combined with the properties' own hero shots, the Guest Concierge Digibook is dressed in a skin that makes it appear like a unique communiqué from the hotel at which you are staying.
Blachowitz explains: "It will be the ideal tool and value-added service allowing guests to plan, book and co-ordinate their vacation ahead of their arrival at the hotel, thereby alleviating stress, anxiety and the fear that often accompanies a vacation to a new destination/city/country."
He explains that the Digibook contains multiple links to relevant email addresses, websites, Facebook and Twitter pages and other social media networks making it completely interactive.
"The hotels can also get a physical, hard-cover version to display at their concierge or guest services desk, but the key is that this is digital and can be updated in real time. Not only will this drive incremental revenue and assist in up-selling the clients, but it will also drive business to partners and suppliers (travel and tour operators, restaurants and the like) as well as showcase other properties, hotels and offerings within the group where relevant.
Key to the success of this venture is that it is visually appealing and easy to use. Blachowitz has brought his vision and artistic sensibilities from many years in magazine publishing to this project and, as you will see if you take a tour of Newmark Hotel's digital concierge, it is gorgeous to look at.
Contact Marc Blachowitz at az.oc.iledotohp@cram, +27 (0)82 990 1926 and see www.photodeli.co.za for more. He will also be exhibiting at the upcoming WTM expo at the CTICC on the 2&3 May, so feel free to pop around to his stand.
