How do you feel about AI emotion detection in hotels?

How do you feel about AI emotion detection in hotels?
Above: The newly redesigned The Ansonborough Charleston's rooftop garden and mural. (Courtesy of The Ansonborough Charleston)

Have you perfected your poker face or do you wear your emotions on your sleeve? New biometric tech being introduced in hotels could soon be the judge of that. Not only can it provide facial recognition for check in, but it can judge your emotions, too. - Lesley McKenzie, editor

In this issue:
💍  Proposal pros perfect the big ask
🏩  Rooftop garden crowns icon’s reno
🤝  Cookin’ up a new retention recipe
😉  Check-in with a wink
🔑 Unlocking the power of design
-Written by Pam Morales Worsham

GUEST EXPERIENCE

Romance gurus turn hotels into destination “YES!”

 Specialized staff like proposal butlers and romantic personal assistants are becoming more common in hotels, helping to create personalized engagement experiences for guests. From arranging mountain-top proposals to sourcing hard-to-find wines, these staff members play a crucial role in orchestrating memorable moments. As more couples seek elaborate destination proposals, hotels are leaning on their teams to deliver bespoke services. (Condé Nast Traveler)

REVENUE & INVESTMENT

Ansonborough luxe revamp channels historic roots

South Carolina’s The Ansonborough Charleston, previously known as The Ansonborough Inn, has undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation led by Studio 11 Design. The renovation includes redesigned guest rooms, a new rooftop garden and the addition of the Scarborough & Squirrel Bar, enhancing both the historical charm and modern appeal of the property.

 “This building has stood as a cornerstone of the neighborhood for over a century, and we humbly embraced the responsibility of preserving its rich legacy throughout this renovation,” says Larry Wright Jr., CEO and president of Wright Investments. (Space International Hotel Design)

PEOPLE & STAFF

The art of keeping talent in hospitality

The hospitality industry faces significant challenges with talent acquisition and retention amid ongoing labor shortages, according to recent American Hotel and Lodging Association data. Industry leaders suggest a holistic approach to retention, incorporating innovative recruitment strategies, investment in employee development and the creation of an inclusive work environment. Experts also point to AI's potential in streamlining recruitment and enhancing employee roles, while emphasizing that it should complement, not replace, the human touch in HR. (Hospitality Investor)

SPACE & DESIGN

How hotel interiors design unforgettable stays

Designing a memorable hotel experience involves crafting spaces that encourage connection and interaction, with careful space planning and versatile lighting being essential, according to design experts. Effective hotel design reflects the local environment and enhances the guest experience by blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Incorporating personalized touches and anticipating future trends, such as sustainability, helps a hotel maintain its relevance and charm over time. (Living ETC)

TECHNOLOGY

Hotels face the future with biometric tech

Facial recognition technology is gaining traction in the hospitality industry as a tool for streamlining processes like check-in, payment, and access control. Despite previous concerns about privacy, hotels are now adopting these technologies more widely, driven by improved security measures and growing public comfort with biometrics. As costs decrease, facial recognition is expected to become more prevalent, offering enhanced guest experiences through AI-driven applications beyond just check-in, including payments and emotion detection. (Lodging Magazine)


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