WhatsApp was launched in 2009 and has now dominated communication in the world of travel. It is so important that some operators will only use the app for their communications. So, what is WhatsApp?
Business Insider says,
WhatsApp is a free, multiplatform messaging app that lets you make video and voice calls, send text messages, and more — all with just a Wi-Fi connection. With over 2 billion active users, WhatsApp is especially popular among friends and family who live in different countries and want to stay in touch.
In travel, WhatsApp is the leader in communication, whether with a hotel, tour guide, activity, or much, much more. It's become a necessary travel app.
The good news is WhatsApp is 100% free, and you can use your regular mobile or cell number. When sharing your number for WhatsApp, just ensure you add your country area code, or even easier, show the QR code generated from within the app for accuracy.
Unlike your regular mobile number on local networks, your WhatsApp account will work across all networks, either at home or abroad with a pre-paid SIM, an eSIM or on any Wi-Fi network. A Wi-Fi network is all you need.
Ordering Room Service via WhatsApp
Is WhatsApp really that popular among tour operators and hotels?
We recently travelled to Bali, Indonesia. Every driver, tour guide and accommodation used WhatsApp to communicate. In one particular resort in Candidasa, the property used WhatsApp exclusively throughout the entire resort. This means, upon check-in, we exchanged WhatsApp details via the QR code, and the staff immediately sent us a welcome message with information on how to access our room with a digital door code and the Wi-Fi password. There was also a link to the Resorts facilities and menus. No key, no paper.
All communication with the resort was entirely through WhatsApp. To order room service and drinks, book a massage, make a reservation, and arrange a taxi, we simply messaged the resort on WhatsApp, even from within our hotel room or sitting around the pool. In fact, the resort had no internal phones in the rooms for guests.
Here's an example of how we ordered room service and requested information about local tour recommendations.
It takes some getting used to being unable to pick up the phone and ask for room service, but I guess we are now living in a digital era.
There are some positive benefits of this type of communication. Firstly, you will always have a record of your communication and what you have ordered or requested. The links provided by the accommodation can be accessed anywhere, even when you are out and about during the day. For example, we were walking for several hours, so I decided to book a massage for when we returned to the resort. All this was organized on WhatsApp while we were out away from the resort.
WhatsApp also makes it easy to stay in touch with family and friends who are travelling with you. You can easily create a group and share information with family members. "Taxi is booked for 7.30 am, meet you all at reception" It's that easy. The app also allows you to see when the message has been received and if it's been opened and read.
WhatsApp is used worldwide. I've witnessed its extensive use in Europe and, more recently, in Southeast Asia. Although I have never seen it used exclusively internally within a resort until recently, it's a sign of the times, and the future in this space is interesting.
I know major hotel chains are looking to develop apps that will revolutionise how we stay at hotels—from your check-in experience to room access, ordering room service, and adjusting the lights and air conditioning. There are multiple benefits for both the user and the hotel. Imagine having a Room Service menu that's always up to date. The hotel sells out of the catch of the day? Within seconds, staff can alter the menu without the need to print new paper copies. On the other hand, hotel operators will gather better data to improve the guest experience while having a lesser impact on the environment.
About the Author
The author of this blog, unless otherwise noted, has no affiliation with any property or business linked in this article. Unless otherwise noted, there is no free accommodation or payment from any businesses. The information contained in this blog is strictly the views of the author and not professional advice. The author of this BookDirect blog is a travel and tourism professional with over 30 years of experience in international hotel management, global travel, and short-term rental management and a tourism awards judge specialising in accommodation and attractions.
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