We might sometimes request a room with a view, but London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sponsor Holiday Inn has taken that idea to a whole new level through the world’s first augmented reality hotel.
This time the view on offer is of sports stars - all you need is a smartphone or tablet to see some of Britain’s London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls in virtual action in the reception, corridors and bedrooms of the Holiday Inn London Kensington Forum.
The new campaign by the official London 2012 hotel provider gives you the chance to see BMX World Champion Shanaze Reade performing tricks on her bike in the lobby while Britain’s best ever windsurfer, Nick Dempsey, can be found in the bedroom, ‘windsurfing’ with a bed sheet. Paralympic world number one table tennis player Will Bayley is busy hitting balls behind reception as the UK long-jump record holder Chris Tomlinson jumps in a corridor.
Guests will also be able to have their picture taken with all four of the athlete ‘auras’ and share it with friends and family via their social networks.
Away from his bed sheet, Nick Dempsey said: “Standing here in the world’s first Augmented Reality Hotel and having a photo taken with my virtual self is surreal.
“Being able to pick up your phone and see athletes appear as if they were right in front of you is unbelievable and a great way to get people excited about the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Holiday Inn spokesperson Mike Greenup added: “The augmented reality gives guests a behind the scenes look at real athletes as they prepare for London 2012 in and around the hotel.”
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the stars in action…
Jessica Whittington, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
