There are a lot of commercial applications to explore in the world of VR technology. Expedia, a globally renowned travel company, is currently looking into incorporating this technology. In doing so, the company will effectively let clients “try before they buy” when it comes to booking a tour of Mexico’s cenote pools.
Expedia Takes a VR Gamble
In the world of traveling, visiting exotic locations is something a lot of people look forward to. Unfortunately, there is an increase in travel packages being offered which do not meet clients’ expectations. Expedia acknowledges being more transparent in this regard is never a bad idea. Their new VR venture aims to give clients a better idea of what they can expect exactly.
More specifically, the travel agency is offering trips to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Once the travelers arrive, they can swim in the cenote pools which played an increasing role of importance in the Mayan culture. By bringing this experience to virtual reality, users can see what they can expect from booking this trip exactly. It is an in-house developed solution by ExpediaLabs, the company’s travel tech exploration outfit.
Expedia explains this VR venture as follows:
“We’re continuing to experiment in the virtual reality space to make travel more personalized and inspire customers to book their next trip. ExpediaLabs has created unique VR experiences, and we’re stoked to let travelers explore the world through these immersive experiences.”
Interested parties can check out the Expedia Cenotes VR experience through the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift. Anyone who views the VR experience to the end can receive a $10 discount on their physical travel, which costs $79 per person. It is not the first time Expedia showed an interest in virtual reality, even though former CEO Dara Khosrowshahi was never a fan of this technology. Instead, the CEO hoped VR in travel failed because it could end up costing Expedia clients.
If you liked this article make sure to follow us on twitter @thevrsoldier and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with the latest VR trends and news.
