Destination AI comes to DC in September

Destination AI 2024, a one-day event focused exclusively on artificial intelligence (AI) and how hoteliers can leverage the technology, will take place on Sept. 26, at the Partnership for Public Service Conference Center in Washington, DC.

The curated event will feature keynotes, one-on-one conversations, panel sessions, case studies and networking opportunities for those interested in learning more about AI as it relates to the industry.

“Destination AI 2024 will help hoteliers learn about this still-developing technology and ways they can utilize AI to help their hotels run more efficiently and be more profitable,” said Nazpari Aydin, cofounder, Destination AI. “With new AI and generative AI applications for the hotel industry launching regularly, our event can give hotel leaders the tools to figure out what AI platforms will work for them.”

The event schedule includes sessions such as “Generative AI’s Influence on Leisure Traveler Behaviors,” “The Role of AI in Automating Hotel Operations,” “Enhancing Guest Experience with AI” and more.

Among the speakers at the event is Michael Mahar, SVP, head of commercial technology, loyalty & digital products, Wyndham, who expressed that “there are many opportunities for our industry to benefit from AI,” adding, “It’s all about using the knowledge we get from technology and coupling that with human interaction—which is what our industry is all about.”

He continued, “AI can inspire guests, helping hotel staff to curate experiences from the vacation planning process, throughout their stay and even after they leave. By leaning into those opportunities, staff can provide memorable experiences that make an impact and, ultimately, help to enhance business opportunities for owners.”

Stuart Greif, EVP, chief strategy, innovation & operating officer, Forbes Travel Guide, will also be on hand to discuss the benefits of implementing AI in the hospitality industry.

“We are already seeing meaningful inroads and competitive advantage being driven by those who are adopting generative AI in their companies, whether that is cost efficiencies in programming, contact center support or everything from data analytics to revenue management,” he said. “The companies that strategically take advantage of the new capabilities and build a core culture and organization around leveraging AI will drive better performance and pull away from those who lag behind. Now is a perfect time as it is still early days in this wave of GenAI-driven innovation for this event.”

Other speakers already confirmed for Destination AI 2024 include Klaus Kohlmayr, chief evangelist & development officer, IDeaS; Ray Boyle, VP, data and analytics, Hyatt; Janesh Patel, SVP, global contract center & franchise system support, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts; and Chinmai Sharma, global head of lodging, ground & sea, Sabre Travel Solutions.

Other companies also committed to Destination AI 2024 include Marriott International, Thayer Ventures, SiteMinder and IBM.

Registration for Destination AI 2024 is now open. For more information, visit destinationai2024.com and make sure to follow Destination AI on LinkedIn for updates.

Date: Sept. 26, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Partnership for Public Service Conference Center, 600 14th St. NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005

Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Contact Nazpari Aydin at nazpari@hospitalityaisummit.com or by phone at 949-689-0081.