Last April I encountered a robot in the Seoul airport.  That’s right.   This snowman shaped  creature was buzzing about the hallways of the modern transportation hub, providing answers to questions and directing, or should I say, “leading” people to destinations of their choice. 

I was quite amazed with the molded plastic machine that seemed quite human like—maybe it was the eyes—and killed some time watching him? or her? twirl about, providing answers and engendering amazement. 

 I even typed in a destination on the robot’s screen and followed it a bit, chuckling when I got out of the camera’s range.  Clearly the robot thought I was lost and issued the command, “Please stay behind me,” 

Thinking this robot was unique to tech savvy Korea, I figured I wouldn’t be seeing more robots on my travels until I picked up a current magazine and found some statistics on use of artificial intelligence in the travel industry. 

In a San Francisco City Magazine ((May 2019) I learned that 

• a robot handles room service  in the 122 room Hotel Trio in Healdsburg, CA.  Using cameras and sensors it navigates hallways and elevators delivering food and wowing the guests. 
• the company who makes the robot who works at the Hotel Trio, Savioke, has delivered robots to more than 80 hotels, mostly in California. 
• KLM, the Dutch airline, uses a robot to help passengers carry bags. 
• The cruise line Royal Caribbean has a “bionic bartender” who mixes cocktails on some ships. 

Who would have thunk it? Not me.  But I’m keeping my eye out for more.  Cool.  

Tourist Ambassadors in Korea

While intrigued with the robot I encountered, I much preferred the Dressed-All-In-Red Tourist Ambassadors we met in Seoul, who were stationed on key street corners and venues to help folks like us find our way.  

We were helped twice by some delightful folks who pointed us in the right directions  and answered questions.   Worthwhile experiences both times.   

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Comments are enthusiastically welcomed in the comment section below.  Don’t hesitate to share your travel experiences.