We unpack two key shifts shaping the future of travel: digital identity wallets and the critical role of payments in unlocking AI’s full potential.
Digital Identity: The Future of Personalised Travel
At Phocuswright Europe, industry leaders shared their vision for a world where travelers take control of their own profiles, preferences, and sensitive data. The days of static CRM databases are numbered. Instead, imagine a traveler carrying their preferences—from seat selection and allergies to room location—in a secure digital wallet, instantly accessible across the travel ecosystem.
Driven by the European Commission’s digital wallet initiative launching next year, this shift promises hyper-personalised experiences powered by AI agents acting on behalf of the traveler. Nick Price and Jamie Smith believe these wallets won’t just streamline customer experience—they’ll transform business operations by enabling instant partner and customer verification. For STR operators, this means adapting to a world where seamless, guest-controlled data will become the standard for loyalty and service.
Why Payments Could Make or Break AI’s Future in Hospitality
While AI grabs headlines, Jess Conroy, CEO of ROH, highlighted a less glamorous—but critical—part of the innovation puzzle: payments. Despite AI’s potential, 80% of hotel transactions still require manual processing. That’s a bottleneck AI can’t fix without foundational change.
ROH is stepping into this gap by automating contracts, invoices, and payment workflows, freeing up hotel and property management teams to focus on guest experience rather than back-office admin. As Conroy put it, “If you don’t have the right infrastructure, you can’t exploit the innovation coming your way.” The message for STR operators is clear—modernise payments or risk falling behind in the AI-driven future of hospitality.
Takeaways for STR Hosts and Managers
✅ Embrace emerging digital identity solutions that empower guests to manage their data and preferences.
✅ Audit your payment systems—are manual processes slowing you down?
✅ Look for tech partnerships that combine automation, AI, and streamlined guest services.
Final Thought: The Next Tech Frontier is Human-Centric
The future of travel isn’t just smarter—it’s more personal and efficient. Digital wallets and streamlined payments aren’t just tech upgrades; they’re enablers of better service, deeper trust, and sustainable growth in a fast-changing industry.
Ready to elevate your direct booking game? Visit the Boostly website for the tools, strategies, and support you need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. And remember: Book Direct