News

Prof. Dan Wang and Yunji Technology Joined a Forum on Hotel Smart Agent

At the Maidian (Shanghai) Regional Hotel Development Forum on 31 March 2025, under the theme “Diversity · New Beginnings,” industry experts and leaders discussed digital transformations and new growth engines for the hotel industry. Prof. Dan Wang, Associate Director of Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT) and Mr. Yongbo Zhao, CMO of Yunji Technology, joined the forum. Mr. Zhao noted that user demand channels have become increasingly centralized. Leveraging smartphones, Yunji Technology introduced “Yuni,” a digital human that allows users to submit requests through familiar interactions. By merging “disembodied” and “embodied” intelligence, Yunji launched the industry’s first scene-specific smart agent—the “Hotel Smart Agent”—to deliver automated services across diverse scenarios, enhancing operational efficiency. Prof. Wang described combining an AI smart agent with human expertise as forming a “super team” that redefines productivity. She highlighted that China has become a global benchmark for AI in hospitality, with systems like Yunji’s robots and the HDOS system digitalizing service processes and smart management. Such platforms offer a replicable model that can be implemented worldwide. Mr. Zhao also warned that while AI empowers businesses and individuals, it risks widening social and economic gaps. Nonetheless, Yunji Technology’s scalable approach has already enabled intelligent robotic services in over 30,000 hotels, serving over one million guests daily. Online coverage: https://www.meadin.com/279575.html

Research Seminar Delivered by Dr Junxi Qian

On 31 March 2025, Dr Junxi Qian, an esteemed Associate Professor in the Department of Geography at The University of Hong Kong, delivered an enlightening seminar on "The Rural Renaissance and Reconstruction Movement in China: The Nexus of Culture, Economy, and Social Revival." The event, chaired by Prof. Mimi Li, Associate Director of the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT), attracted faculty members and students from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) and members of the RCDTT, sparking engaging discussions on the transformative initiatives reshaping China's rural landscapes. Dr Qian, a renowned urban, social, and cultural geographer, shared his extensive research on cultural economic geographies and rural revitalization efforts in regions such as the Pearl River Delta, Yunnan, and Tibet. His work, recognized with the prestigious Gill Memorial Award in 2022 from the Royal Geographical Society - Institute of British Geographers, explores the intersection of geography, urban studies, and cultural studies. During the seminar, Dr Qian examined how diverse actors, including grassroots communities, corporate interests, NGOs, and the state, redefine the countryside as a vibrant resource for cultural and economic activation. He presented a series of case studies highlighting initiatives that utilize architectural materiality, rural arts, and heritage preservation to foster local cultural identity and generate social and cultural value. This seminar follows a recent presentation by Prof. Scott McCabe from the University of Birmingham, who discussed "Social Tourism: Enhancing Participation and Well-being." Prof. McCabe's seminar, chaired by Prof. Haiyan Song, Director of the RCDTT, examined the inclusion of disadvantaged individuals in tourism through socially oriented measures. His interdisciplinary research has significantly influenced policy on social tourism in the UK and internationally. Both seminars underscore the RCDTT's commitment to advancing academic understanding and offering practical implications for policymakers and stakeholders in the tourism and cultural sectors. Attendees left with valuable insights into enhancing participation and well-being in diverse communities, as well as reflecting on the future of social tourism and rural revitalization.

RCDTT Showcases Cutting-Edge AI Research at Connect Marketplace Hong Kong

Prof. Faye Hao, Assistant Professor at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, was invited to deliver a keynote at the prestigious Connect Marketplace Hong Kong. Her presentation, titled “The Role of Technology in Shaping Future Industry: Harness the Power of AI,” explored the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the tourism and hospitality sectors. During the keynote, Prof. Hao highlighted the collaborative research initiatives led by the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT) in partnership with leading technology companies. The presentation showcased practical applications of AI technologies in hospitality, including contactless service systems, robotic service solutions, and generative AI-enabled chatbots. These innovations are revolutionizing operational efficiency and enhancing guest experiences in both hotels and event spaces. One of the key highlights of the presentation was the development and deployment of AI avatars as digital service staff. These personalized digital concierges offer 24/7 multilingual assistance, seamless integration with hotel systems, and tailored travel recommendations — addressing both service personalization and labor shortages in the industry. Additionally, RCDTT's work on AI-powered customer knowledge graphs and predictive insight engines was also featured, demonstrating how advanced data analytics can enable hyper-personalized service and targeted marketing. Prof. Hao also introduced recent breakthroughs such as DeepSeek, an open-source large language model designed for cost-effective and multilingual performance. The keynote emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in advancing digital innovation while ensuring accessibility, inclusiveness, and sustainability. RCDTT remains at the forefront of research and innovation, driving digital transformation across tourism and hospitality with impactful real-world applications.

Research Seminar Delivered by Prof. Scott McCabe

On 25 March 2025, Prof. Scott McCabe, a distinguished Professor of Marketing at Birmingham Business School (BBS), University of Birmingham, delivered an insightful research seminar on "Social Tourism: Enhancing Participation and Well-being." Prof. McCabe, who is Co-Chief Editor of Annals of Tourism has an extensive background in marketing and tourism, shared his expertise with faculty members and students from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) and members of the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT). This seminar is chaired by Prof. Haiyan Song, Director of RCDTT. During the seminar, Prof. McCabe explored the concept of social tourism, which involves the inclusion of disadvantaged individuals in tourism through socially-oriented measures, often involving financial support. Although social tourism originated in Europe, Prof. McCabe highlighted the diverse systems worldwide that support marginalized groups, including young people, low-income families, individuals with disabilities, and older adults. Prof. McCabe's research is interdisciplinary, spanning sociology, consumer psychology, and marketing. His work has significantly contributed to promoting the concept of 'social tourism' in the UK and internationally, linking holidays to subjective well-being outcomes. His research has influenced policy on social tourism in the UK and continues to engage with debates on pro-social and pro-environmental tourist consumption, as well as responsible and ethical consumer behavior. The seminar provided an enlightening experience, fostering engaging discussions among attendees about the future of social tourism and the importance of inclusive strategies in enhancing tourism participation. Prof. McCabe's work not only advances academic understanding but also offers practical implications for policymakers and stakeholders in the tourism sector.

Hong Kong Polytechnic University Unveils "Suh Jung Ho Inspiration Sphere" to Foster Innovation in Hospitality Research and Education

Hong Kong, March 6, 2025 – The Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCdTT) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s (PolyU) School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) marked a milestone with the official opening of the “Suh Jung Ho Inspiration Sphere” on Thursday. Named in honor of hospitality visionary Mr. Suh Jung Ho, the cutting-edge seminar room is designed to inspire academics, students, and industry leaders through collaborative research and education. Mr. Suh Jung Ho, founder of Seoul-based Ambassador Hotel Group—a leading hospitality investment and management firm—was celebrated for his transformative contributions to the industry and unwavering commitment to education. His recent donation of HKD 2.8 million to SHTM’s RCdTT underscores his dedication to advancing interdisciplinary research and innovation. The Inspiration Sphere adds to his philanthropic legacy, which includes scholarships, mentorship programs, and now this state-of-the-art facility aimed at shaping the future of hospitality and tourism. Situated within SHTM, the Inspiration Sphere is equipped to host lectures, research seminars, and workshops, fostering engagement with global hospitality trends such as sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and experiential service design. The space will serve as a dynamic platform for faculty and students to explore cutting-edge solutions to industry challenges.

Prof. Sara Dolnicar Delivered Insightful Lecture on Environmentally Sustainable Tourism

On 4 March 2025, Professor Sara Dolnicar, a renowned expert in sustainable tourism and an ARC Australian Laureate Fellow from the School of Business at the University of Queensland, visited The Hong Kong Polytechnic University to deliver an insightful lecture titled “How to Make Environmentally Sustainable Tourism More of an Experience and Less of an Obligation.” The event was attended by the master students from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), as well as members of the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT). Professor Dolnicar, founder of The Low Harm Hedonism Initiative, emphasized the need to transform the perception of sustainable tourism from a mandatory obligation into an enriching experience for travelers. The Low Harm Hedonism Initiative challenges conventional theories about universal drivers of human behavior, proposing that enhancing enjoyment or modifying infrastructure is essential for promoting pro-environmental actions in hedonic contexts. Her presentation highlighted the critical role of engaging tourists in sustainability practices that enhance their overall travel experience while minimizing environmental impact. Throughout the lecture, Professor Dolnicar explored innovative techniques for influencing tourist behavior, including the use of belief messaging, gamification, modifying infrastructure, and enhancing enjoyment that foster emotional connections to sustainability. She presented case studies illustrating how tourism and hospitality stakeholders have successfully encouraged tourists to adopt more sustainable practices, thereby enhancing both tourist satisfaction and environmental stewardship. The session concluded with lively discussions among students, who expressed enthusiasm for the insights shared and the potential applications of sustainable practices in the tourism industry. In addition to the lecture, Professor Dolnicar offered one-on-one consultations for SHTM PhD students on 5 March, providing personalized guidance on their research topics related to sustainable tourism. This opportunity allowed students to engage directly with her expertise, further enriching their academic pursuits. Professor Dolnicar's visit not only enriched the academic discourse on sustainable tourism but also inspired future research initiatives aimed at promoting environmentally responsible travel behaviors.

Prof. SONG Haiyan featured on Now News on use of robotics and AI in hotel industry

Prof. SONG Haiyan, Director of Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT), Associate Dean and Chair Professor of School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), Mr and Mrs Chan Chak Fu Professor in International Tourism, was interviewed by Now News to share his views on how robotics and AI can address manpower shortages and enhance customer experiences in the hotel industry. Prof. Song said, “Some people think that the development of AI and robotics may replace certain jobs in the hotel industry, and this is indeed true. However, the use of robotics and AI also creates opportunities for new and higher-level jobs. As the hotel and tourism industry evolves in the future, many new business operating models and applications of science and technology will emerge.” Online coverage: Now TV - https://polyu.me/3X2DREI (00:15 - 02:08) Yahoo HK - https://polyu.me/43gMAan

Research Seminar delivered by Prof. Gang Li

On 14 February 2025, Prof. Gang Li, a distinguished Professor of Tourism Economics and Director of International Relations and the Centre for Competitiveness of the Visitor Economy at the University of Surrey, delivered a compelling research seminar titled “Tourism Demand and Destination Competitiveness: A Spatial Spillover Perspective.” The seminar was attended by faculty members and students from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) and members of the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT). Prof. Li, who serves on the International Advisory Committee of RCDTT, was recognized as one of the world’s top 1% Highly Cited Researchers by Clarivate in 2024.   During the seminar, Prof. Li explored the complex relationship between tourism demand and destination competitiveness, focusing on spatial spillover effects among neighboring destinations. His research underscores the importance of understanding how tourism demand in one area can impact the competitiveness of nearby regions, highlighting the interconnected nature of international tourism. Prof. Li introduced an innovative methodology for assessing relative competitiveness, which takes into account the interactions between competing and complementary destinations.   Utilizing empirical data from various Asian destinations, the study employed spatio-temporal econometric models to analyze demand systems. This approach enabled both local and global estimations, allowing for the identification of net spillover effects of tourism demand and pricing on destination competitiveness. The findings from this research make a significant contribution to the existing literature on destination competitiveness and tourism demand analysis, offering valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the tourism sector.   Prof. Li's work not only advances academic understanding but also provides practical implications for enhancing the competitiveness of tourism destinations in a rapidly evolving global market. The seminar was an enlightening experience that fostered engaging discussions among attendees about the future of tourism economics and the importance of collaborative strategies in enhancing destination competitiveness.

RCDTT of PolyU joins hands with PATA on Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts

RCDTT and School of Hotel and Tourism Management of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University have signed a collaborative agreement with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) on the production of the PATA Visitor Forecast Reports for the next three years. The PolyU research team has been working with PATA over the past decade on PATA Visitor Forecasts, which have benefited the destination governments, DMOs, and tourism businesses in their decision-making. Especially, during the COVID-19 period, these forecasts provided timely and reliable tourism demand information to the destinations within the region to effectively manage the negative impacts of the pandemic on tourism demand. Professor Haiyan Song, Director of RCDTT said "Our team looks forward to collaborating with PATA on this impactful project over the next three years.”  

More Updates from Dr Curley Liu, RCDTT's Research Assistant Professor, at UN Tourism!

We are pleased to share that Dr Curley Liu, our Research Assistant Professor at RCDTT, has officially completed her attachment at UN Tourism!   Dr Curley Liu shared, "My attachment to UN Tourism has come to an end, and I am deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity. During my time with the Market Intelligence, Policies, and Competitiveness Department of UN Tourism, I contributed to the World Tourism Report by conducting statistical analyses, developing forecasting models, and constructing indexes to measure tourism development across various destinations. This experience has provided me with invaluable insights into the tourism industry and taught me how to effectively bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications. I am sincerely thankful for the amazing team at UN Tourism for their support and guidance throughout this journey. Thank you, UN Tourism, for this unforgettable experience!"