Understanding Safety Concerns

As globalization continues to break down barriers between countries, more people are traveling than ever before. This presents incredible opportunities to explore the world, experience new cultures and gain a fresh perspective; but travel can also present challenges, especially for potentially vulnerable groups such as women, minorities, the disabled and LGBTQ+ travelers. These people may face unique obstacles that can impact their sense of security, accessibility, and overall enjoyment while traveling. In an increasingly interconnected world, technology can play a vital role in enhancing our travel experiences. For these travelers, having access to technologies that provide information and insights regarding safety considerations has been a game-changer; helping travelers make informed decisions and securely navigate unfamiliar destinations with greater confidence.

Understanding Safety Concerns

Safety is a primary concern for every traveler, but it is amplified for particular groups. Some women, for example, may face harassment or assault while traveling, particularly if they’re traveling alone. Others may fear they’ll be targets of discrimination or harassment in unfamiliar destinations. It is crucial that the travel industry address these concerns by raising awareness, promoting safety measures, and advocating for inclusive policies. Supporting initiatives can take many forms, such as safe accommodation options, comprehensive travel insurance, and easy access to reliable safety resources.

“… having access to technologies that provide information and insights regarding safety considerations has been a game-changer”

Ensuring secure accommodations is a crucial component of safe travel. To reduce risk, some suppliers have taken steps to ensure travelers feel supported and welcomed. This might include training staff to recognize and respond to safety concerns, offering emergency resources to travelers, and partnering with local organizations to provide support and assistance in case of an emergency. Thoroughly researching and reading reviews about different hotels and accommodation options can help travelers make informed decisions. Opting for establishments with positive reputations and familiar locations, or those well-reviewed by fellow travelers, minimizes the likelihood of encountering compromising situations while away from home.

The Role of Technology in Travel Safety

Travel technology providers are also taking significant steps to ensure safer travels for everyone. For example, MMGY Global has recently unveiled its Travel Safety Barometer, a sentiment-tracking tool designed to gauge American travelers’ perceptions of safety by offering real-time insights into travelers’ comfort levels according to various travel behaviors. As of the most recent polling in May 2023, the barometer reveals that domestic leisure travel within the U.S. is showing signs of recovery before business and international travel although overall confidence in travel safety remains relatively low.

Planning for safer travels begins in the sourcing process. Hotel sourcing platform, Vindow, Inc., offers travel buyers access to their proprietary Vindow Score™, a tool which lets them see how hotels rank when independently compared by location, amenities, health and safety ratings, and more. The score is derived by analyzing millions of actual guest reviews on online travel and hotel booking sites using Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing. In addition to the aggregate score (a numerical rating out of 5) included with every hotel listing, buyers can also drill down into the granular details of the Vindow Score™, to obtain specific information about each property to inform the best possible choice.   Vindow has also partnered with GeoSure™ to  incorporate their hyperlocal Neighborhood Composite Scores into the platform. GeoSure reports in real-time on safety, accessibility, and logistical factors in the form of a percentage (100% being the best), making it easy for buyers to determine if a hotel is in a safe, easily accessible area. Their ratings are specifically categorized by Nighttime, Physical, Women’s and LGBTQ Safety, Theft, Health and Medical, and Basic Freedoms.

In Conclusion

As travel becomes more accessible and diverse populations embark on journeys around the world, it is crucial to address the unique challenges and safety concerns faced by vulnerable individuals. Technology has emerged as a powerful tool in empowering travelers and promoting safer experiences. By embracing cutting-edge technology and prioritizing safety measures, we can elevate the travel experience for individuals, while simultaneously fostering a more interconnected and compassionate world. Together, let’s take an active role in guaranteeing that every traveler can embark on their explorations with confidence.