There’s no denying that technology is changing the world and transforming travel. Most of it is for the better, but a hotel in South Florida is taking things to another level.
@languageguy1♬ original sound – Language Guy
In a video (embedded above) posted by Pete Langs, who goes by @languageguy1 on TikTok and Instagram, he checks into La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sunrise in Sunrise, Florida (near Fort Lauderdale), where the front desk worker appears on a screen, live and most likely from India.
The virtual front desk employee asks Langs, “Do you need one room key or two?” He replies, “Two, just in case I lose one.” I do the same.
The receptionist then gives Langs check-in instructions and generates the registration form and an automated voice says that it’s a no smoking hotel and that his signature must match the one on his ID.
According to the Daily Mail, “In a follow-up video, the guest filmed himself checking out and confronting the same remote worker about the arrangement. After the virtual receptionist asked about his stay, the guest replied, ‘It was all good, but I’m not happy — you took my job.’ The employee responded awkwardly, saying, ‘There are some things we cannot do. We did not take your job.’”
I wasn’t able to find that video, but there’s no reason to be angry at the virtual receptionist. The frustration should be directed at the company behind the decision, and people online seem to agree.
There’s been plenty of backlash on social media about outsourcing jobs:
@globolobo: outsourcing front desk agent is WILD
@Papabase: Florida saying they’re pro American but outsourcing everything
@boudi3086: But y’all were mad at immigrants for taking jobs but not at companies that ship Americans’ jobs overseas
@Null: Funny how those same companies are against remote work unless they pay subcontractors pennies
@z3r0day: At least it’s still a human. Wait till you hear “Hi I’m Sam. Your friendly neighborhood AI chatbot”
Many hotels now offer remote or mobile check-in,and whenever I can bypass the front desk to save time, I do. Still, I like the reassurance of having someone physically present at the front desk in case I need help or there’s an emergency.
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