Marriott Hotels is hoping the Star Trek effect will give it an edge as it launches its latest tech innovation.
The company has partnered with developer Framestore to bring virtual reality-powered travel guides to guests, using Oculus Rift headsets.
The 4-D virtual travel experience takes place in a teleporter – a phone booth-like structure that will tour eight cities across the US, starting in New York.
Marriott claims guests can see, hear and feel what it is like to be in a destination through a combination of live-action video, audio, CGI effects and 4-D elements such as heat, wind and mist.
"Marriott Hotels is pioneering the use of innovative technologies that will transform the guest experience to heights unseen in the current reality experience in unprecedented ways," said Michael Dail, vice president, Marriott Hotels Brand Marketing.
"Marriott seized on virtual reality and teleportation to give the next generation of travelers the clear cut notion that more amazing travel experiences are coming," he added.
The teleporter will also pay visits to Marriott properties in Boston, Washington DC, Atlanta, Dallas, San Diego, San Jose and San Francisco until mid-October.
