Renaissance Hotels, part of the Marriott Bonvoy family, is stepping into the future of hospitality with its latest innovation, RENAI By Renaissance. This new AI-powered virtual concierge service is set to revolutionize how guests interact with their hotel environment and discover local experiences.

RENAI, short for Renaissance Artificial Intelligence, is more than just a digital assistant. It's a bridge connecting guests to the vibrant local scene right from their smartphones. Whether it's finding the perfect breakfast spot, a hidden cocktail bar, or unique local attractions, RENAI is there to offer curated insights 24/7.

What makes RENAI By Renaissance special is its blend of human expertise and AI technology. The service is an evolution of the brand’s Navigator program, where Renaissance Navigators – experts knowledgeable about the local area – provide personalised recommendations. These top picks are easily identifiable, marked with a distinctive compass emoji.

RENAI utilises tools like ChatGPT and open-source resources to create a dynamic “black book” directory. Constantly updated by human Navigators, this directory ensures the suggestions are not just algorithm-based but also reflect the genuine local flavour.

Currently, the service is being tested at select hotels, including The Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel, Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel, and Renaissance Nashville Downtown. Eddie Schneider, the global brand director of Renaissance Hotels, highlights that RENAI By Renaissance is about making the Navigator’s local knowledge more accessible and inclusive.

Guests can initiate a conversation with RENAI By Renaissance through a simple QR code scan, leading to a chat via text message or WhatsApp. This feature is especially handy for pre-trip research, offering recommendations and exclusive deals on local experiences vetted by Renaissance Navigators.

After its trial period, Renaissance Hotels aims to expand RENAI to more than 20 properties worldwide by March 2024. The full launch will include more communication platforms and inputs from neighbourhood influencers, working alongside Navigators to enrich the global directory for Renaissance Hotels.