3D technologies integration in internet travel services based on the modern tourist profile

C. Maganaris, D. Kh. Talavari, A. Fotopoulos Tsikogias, A.

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Introduction

Tourism is a unique product, because it is provided only as information to the client at the point of sale but cannot be tested before the final decision of its consumption (WTO Business Council, 1999) This creates the need for better information delivery to customers regarding their destination so they take less risk in their decisions

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Percentage of people who used the Internet for services on travel and accommodation in 20 European countries

Source: Eurostat, Information society statistics 2008

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Modern Tourist Profile

Source: Rerres K. & Kafeza E. (2009), Tourism in Digital Economy, Research Institute for Tourism

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Factors shaping the profile of modern tourists

1.

The Age is the most important factor in the decision making

The later ages generations are not familiar with the latest technologies The millennium generation, has great use of new technologies, which affects their consumption habits, especially in the digital markets environment [Rerres K.
& Kafeza E., 2009]

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2.

From 3S (sand, sun, sea) to 3E (Excitement, Entertainment, Education)

In the postindustrial era, when the tourist profile of 3S was created, the contact with water and sun symbolizes the return to an ecosystem that reminds nothing of an urban landscape [Pappas N., 2011]

In the new era (3E) the main causes of motivation for new journeys are:

Broaden the intellectual horizons of the participant The opportunities will be given to learn new things The ability to communicate with other people Live new experiences

[Pappas N., 2011]

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3.

Experienced consumers

Have the know how to organize better their holidays online Have requested and received more information on what will meet at their destination way before starting the journey Expect to find always something better than the last time They believe that in the age of electronic commerce, producers must constantly offer new products with enhanced features at low prices [Pappas N., 2011]

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Why 3D in tourist industry?

Penetration of 3D technology in the market

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Why 3D in tourist industry?

The advantage of the illusion of the third dimension may be beneficial in tourist industry Tourism product can not be tested until the destination reach Innovative actions of tourist companies are limited in marketing and interior design

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Examples using 3D technologies in tourism

Advertising By using simulation packages clients will have a good perspective of the room or the view of their room LESS RISK FOR CLIENTS

Interactive tours Of museums or tourist exhibits reconstructions Live streaming Of landscapes or places that are popular tourist destinations

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Examples using 3D technologies in tourism

Digital 3D Maps (not like current technologies) Using 3D maps & GIS systems, tourists can plan a tour on their own, with a much more realistic way The advantages of 3D maps:

recognize the surrounding environment are easier to comprehend and useful for information retrieval [Laakso et. al, 2003]

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Conclusion

3D technologies will enter our daily lives in the near future Need for better promotion of tourist services Modern tourist is a much more experienced consumer, more organizational in planning vacations and seeking better information Tourism industry is a wide open area for the threedimensional technology to apply on

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