Service robots took center stage at the opening of the Hotel Innovation Technology Exhibition and Forum in Da Nang, central Vietnam, on Monday, delivering a memorable experience for attendees.

The 2024 Vietnam Hotel Innovation Technology Exhibition and Forum (Horecfex), organized by the Vietnam Hotel Association and Ariyana International Convention Center in Da Nang, is the largest and first technology-focused event for the tourism industry. 

Ho Ky Minh, vice-chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee, highlighted the significance of Horecfex Vietnam as a platform to showcase the latest innovations and promote future trends in tourism as more facilities adopt advanced technologies.

The event features the latest technological applications in hotel and restaurant operations, contributing to the growth of service businesses, enhancing guest experiences, and promoting sustainable development in Vietnam.

Running from Monday to Tuesday, it is free and open to the public, offering hands-on experiences with the latest tourism technologies.

On the first day, visitors and businesses explored a variety of innovations, with robots drawing particular attention as they made their debut in Da Nang, having already been widely used abroad.

At the event, a robot dressed in traditional Vietnamese attire is able to talk to the host onstage, perform greeting gestures, deliver a welcome message, and explain its presence at the forum.

In the exhibition space, a service robot busily serves food and drinks to guests. 

According to Ho Thanh Tam, director of Da Nang’s Tam Tam Hotel Consulting and Management, this robot, imported from China, made its first appearance at the event.

"This robot can serve food, beverages, and supplies to specific locations using sensors to navigate and avoid obstacles," Tam said, adding that he hoped to see such robots integrated into Vietnamese hotels soon.

Moreover, an outdoor service robot resembling a mini cart was also introduced, capable of navigating complex terrains.

Do Thi Hong Xoan, vice-president of the Vietnam Tourism Association, pointed to the increasing adoption of technology and digital platforms in the tourism industry, noting that Vietnam ranks among the 10 fastest-growing tourism markets, with 38,000 accommodation facilities across the country.

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