How Have Digital Platforms Transformed The Way We Travel?
Leaving the house and visiting a Travel Agent to discuss holiday plans and seek advice, was once the only way for customers to book and pay for a holiday. Organizing accommodation, flights, car hire, and insurance was the sole preserve of a travel agent, and holidaymakers had little or no choice in the matter.
The arrival of the internet has brought about a profound transformation in the travel industry and seen traditional brick and mortar travel agents disappear from our high streets. Thanks to digital platforms, customers are now their own travel agents and can research, plan and book their own travel itineraries from the comfort of their own homes.
The Effect of Digital Platforms
Companies such as Amazon revolutionized the retail industry with their digital platforms providing simple, easy, global access to thousands of products. The travel industry saw similar changes with the arrival of Expedia and Booking.com, providing customers with a simple way of booking thousands of holidays online.
Now online digital platforms allow travelers to plan and purchase every last detail of their holiday via their smartphones.
The Benefits of Digital Platforms
Price
The internet has increased competition in the sector by opening up the industry to any company in the world with an online digital platform. This creates a global, competitive market that drives down prices for the consumer.
Savvy travelers can now shop around and easily compare costs from multiple providers to make sure they receive the best deal available.
Simplicity
If businesses want customers to part with their money they need to make their digital platforms simple, clear, and easily accessible. The smoother the process the more likely people are to book through their site.
Holidays are meant to be relaxing and stress-free and thanks to digital platforms, booking a holiday is now stress-free too.
Time-saving
Advances in technology mean that anybody with a smartphone is walking around with their very own mobile travel agent in their pockets. People can see up-to-date availability and prices, as well as use easy payment methods, saving them precious time.
Variety
Digital platforms have made the travel industry a global marketplace, giving customers an unprecedented choice of holidays that would previously have been unthinkable. From niche to mass market, the options for the modern-day traveler are unprecedented.
Yacht Charters
Airbnb grew from a small-scale provider of Bed and Breakfast accommodation to a multi-billion-dollar company through its digital platform. Now one company is using its platform to become the Airbnb of boats, by allowing customers the chance to experience the joys of chartering a boat.
Borrow A Boat offers charters in 65 destinations around the world and has over 35000 vessels available on its site. From simple yachts to motor cruisers, superyachts, and more, the company aims to provide accommodation for customers with a wide range of budgets and boating experiences.
Destination Bermuda
Bermuda is one country that has seen a boost to its tourism thanks to companies such as Borrow A Boat. With so much to offer visitors, it’s easy to see why it has become such a popular boating destination.
Crystal Clear Water
Bermuda is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters which are so clear it’s possible to see the ocean floor 200 feet below the surface. Its warm waters are home to incredible wildlife and attract tourists all year round, who are keen to experience its tranquillity.
Barrier Reef
The Bahamas boasts the third-largest barrier reef in the world. Reaching more than 190 miles in length, the Andros Barrier Reef sits along the edge of an underwater trench called the Tongue of the Ocean.
Home to colorful exotic fish of all shapes and sizes, the reef is a popular destination for scuba divers, snorkelers and sailors.
Long Island
One of the most beautiful islands in the Bahamas, Long Island is off the beaten path unless you happen to have a boat. The island is 130km long and only 7km at its widest and is popular for fishing, diving, boating and swimming.
There are lots of beautiful, unspoiled beaches to enjoy that are easily accessible by water. The island’s remote location makes it a relaxing haven and perfect destination for a sailing trip.
Blue Lagoon Island
Dolphins, sea lions, inflatable water parks and a beautiful beach are all on offer at Blue Lagoon Island. This private island visitor attraction, also known as Salt Cay, is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Bahamas and perfect for a day ashore.
Families love spending a day here enjoying the many activities and relaxing in a hammock under the palm trees.
Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park
Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park are located in the remote eastern edge of the Bahamas, in a marine protected area. It is popular with snorkellers, divers and boaters, attracted by the beautiful anchorages, rich marine life and clear warm, waters.
The Future of Travel
The internet has changed the travel industry forever, benefitting business with lower costs and a global customer base, while providing travelers with cheaper holidays and greater choice. As companies such as Borrow A Boat continue to grow and innovate in the marketplace, holidaymakers can expect even more exciting experiences to choose from.
This article has been published in accordance with Socialnomics’ disclosure policy.
