Renaissance Hotels, a part of Marriott Bonvoy, has launched a pilot programme for RENAI By Renaissance, a new AI-powered virtual concierge service.
RENAI, which stands for Renaissance Artificial Intelligence, provides guests access to 24/7 curated local insights such as breakfast spots, cocktail bars and more through their smartphones.
RENAI By Renaissance is an updated version of the brand's Navigator programme.
It connects hotel guests with local experiences recommended by Renaissance Navigators, who are knowledgeable about the neighbourhood.
RENAI By Renaissance is powered by both human expertise and AI to provide personalised recommendations to Renaissance Hotel guests.
The top picks made by Renaissance Navigators are marked with a compass emoji.
RENAI is said to also use ChatGPT and open-source outlets to create a “black book” directory that is constantly updated by human Navigators.
This is expected to ensure that the suggestions accurately reflect the local neighbourhood.
Currently, RENAI By Renaissance is being tested out at The Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel, Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel, and Renaissance Nashville Downtown.
Renaissance Hotels global brand director Eddie Schneider said: “Our Navigators celebrate the culture, ideas, people and talents of their neighbourhoods and provide their personal recommendations on what to see and do in their backyard. RENAI By Renaissance makes this even more accessible and inclusive.
“We were already in the process of evolving our signature Navigator programme when technology leaps presented a serendipitous opportunity to fuse our Navigators’ human insights with time-saving technology.”
The brand provides guests wanting to do pre-trip research the option to initiate a conversation with RENAI By Renaissance by scanning a QR code through text message or WhatsApp.
They will receive recommendations and special deals on local experiences approved by Renaissance Navigators.
Following the trial period, Renaissance Hotels plans to expand its AI-powered concierge service to more than 20 properties worldwide by March 2024.
The full launch of the programme is expected to include upgrades such as additional communication platforms and recommendations from neighbourhood influencers.
These influencers will collaborate with Navigators to create a unique directory for Renaissance Hotels globally, the company noted.
