Journal 5

The increase in mobility, supported by the increase in available technology, has led to near constant connectivity to other people. This collaboration of intelligence within the online community, and the online travel community specifically, highlights the function of collaboration and cooperation in the composition and knowledge processes. The interactions between travelers on sites like TripAdvisor and similar travel guide forums illustrate the ways other people influence the ways we think and communicate. In making decisions throughout their travel, people consult others they consider to be more experienced or informed to make decisions, and in return write to consult others who may be making similar decisions. The formation of these interactive knowledge communities in turn influences the terrestrial environment, as travelers expect a more interactive experience out of their travel. This is manifested in the inclusion of virtual mapping technologies such as GPS in travel guides. Smartphone applications act as personalized, dynamic travel guides that serve to provide this desired interaction. The Walt Disney Company is a pioneer of this virtual tourism integrated into their physical locations, innovative in adding new technology catered to bettering the client experience. Technologies advance in accordance with people’s desire and ability to travel. However, as these technologies advance and expand upon travel experience, travelers should consider the role a virtual reality begins to take.