The difference between a traditional virtual tour and an immersive experience is like going from watching a movie to being IN the movie!
Remember those traditional virtual tours we used to think were the ‘cutting-edge’ for online travel? Well, they’re getting left in the dust by thrilling immersive experiences!
Crazy fact – the origin of the online virtual tour started almost three decades ago! Queen Elizabeth II showcased Dudley Castle from way back in 1994, and yeah, it’s a bit hard to watch now.
Then came Google Street View (SV). Launched in 2007 as a far-fetched idea a 360 degree ground level map of the world, (launched the same year as the first iPhone which Steve Jobs then called a “revolutionary and magical product”, that Apple soon retired in 2013). Granted, SV was also revolutionary at the time. But now, 16+ years later, it’s showing its age. The images can be all over the place – blurry, pixelated, and just meh. Plus, there are tons of mistakes and unflattering stuff. Not to mention those awkward angles when they take pics from cars!
This isn’t the reaction any of us want for our visitors!
Sure, SV can give you a basic idea of a place, but it can’t even come close to the full-on, mind-blowing experience of being immersed in a location. We’re talking 4k, sky-to-ground, all-around-you magic with audio, video, interactive AR elements, and more!
I wonder if this could be one of the reasons why Google removed the SV app on March 21, 2023, from the Apple App Store and discontinued Android support in the Play store? Hmm.. sorry, I digress.
What’s the difference between a traditional virtual tour and an immersive experience?
It’s like going from watching a movie to being IN the movie! Immersive experiences make you feel like you’re right there, soaking in every detail of the real destination!
Millennials and Gen Z want fun, captivating and jaw-dropping experiences!
Immersive experiences put visitors IN the destination’s culture, heritage, and activities. It goes beyond traditional sightseeing by creating a meaningful and memorable connection with the place. In 2023, immersive encounters have been the key to a destination’s success. They’re giving modern travelers a genuine, emotional connection and an unforgettable experience. That’s how you get rave reviews, extended stays, and visitors coming back for more!
In working closely with our destinations over the years, I have learned that there are 3 foundational elements that visitors now crave, they include:
- Positive emotions: A fulfilling experience should evokes positive emotions such as happiness, joy, and excitement.
- Memorable moments: A captivating experience should create enduring and lasting memories that you will cherish for years to come.
- Sense of wonder: A stunning experience should expand your imagination, making you feel alive, adventurous and in awe of the world around you.
How have immersive experiences already changed the online travel industry?
- They offer a more realistic experience. Virtual tours are essentially just photos and some videos, while fully immersive 4k sky to ground experiences create a lifelike experience. This makes the experience feel much more authentic, enhancing the decision-making process, encouraging more confident bookings and reducing the chances of disappointment upon arrival.
- They offer a more complete view of the location. Virtual tours are limited to the ground level, and leave viewers wanting more, while fully immersive sky to ground experiences allow you to see the expansive location from above, in full context. This gives you a better understanding of the layout of the destination, and how it fits into the surroundings. Potential visitors gain a more comprehensive understanding of a entire area, enabling them to make better-informed travel decisions.
- They are more engaging and informative. Fully immersive sky to ground experiences allow you to interact with the environment and learn more about the location. This makes the experience more engaging and informative than a traditional virtual 360 tour.
I could go on and on, no really, I could! But you probably were convinced a few sentences back. So, let me wrap this up, ask yourself, “self”, “Are we stuck using old technologies that are not attracting or converting new visitors? Are we trying to reach modern travelers, Millennials and Gen Z, but feel like your failing to capture them, especially when we look at our analytics?”
If so, then you need to pivot and offer your modern visitors an experience they deserve for their hard earned money, one that they can’t get anywhere else. SKYNAV is the leader in immersive experiences, and we can help you create an experience that will be jaw-droppingly awesome.
⚡ Embrace the Future of Travel and Tourism ⚡
While traditional virtual tours were once considered cutting-edge, they have become outdated and uninspiring when compared to immersive experiences. Embrace the now and future of online travel and tourism which promises to be more immersive, engaging, and rewarding than ever before.
🌟 Don’t Let Your Destination Fall Behind! Be Ready for 2024! 🌟
To ensure your destination thrives in this evolving travel landscape, it’s crucial to adopt immersive experiences. Don’t let your competitors steal the spotlight. Book a demo now and discover how SKYNAV can help you create immersive experiences that will leave your competitors in the dust. Be prepared for 2024 and beyond by offering the extraordinary to your visitors.
🚀 Act Now to Secure Your Competitive Edge! 🚀
So, what are you waiting for? Click here to book a free demo and embark on the journey to revolutionize your destination’s future!
Tim Moore
Partner
