There is an opportunity for consumer physical augmentation systems to capture a particular market share, unhappy tourists who just can’t bear to climb another set of stairs. As proof, I present a recent study that creates a direct, linear correlation between physical exertion and satisfaction. In “The impact of biomechanical factors on tourist satisfaction and comfort in walking tourism,” the study authors present compelling data that as tourists become more fatigued, their overall enjoyment of the tour diminishes.
To most people, especially those who have grown up in the Americas, scooters, trucks, electric carts, cable cars, and buses can solve a mobility challenge. However, if you have lived in an older city, you know that 1000+ year-old temples and castles are seldom accessible and are rarely suitable for modification with nice paved surfaces. My father was born in the medieval capital of Bulgaria, and the number of old buildings and stairs is beyond count. So, how can we help tourists if we can’t add wheeled mobility devices? Is this the time for consumer exoskeletons for tourism to shine!?
Not so fast, says a new article in CNN!
Titled “In China, people are hiring ‘climbing buddies’ for big money. The more attractive they are, the higher the price,” the article dashes any hopes of renting consumer-powered exoskeletons for climbing to tourists. Reportedly, there is a flourishing industry of fit young men who will help carry bags, photo props, and even toddlers up mountains and stairs while also shouting encouragement. And did we mention that for an extra price, they can be HOT guys!?
So, exoskeletons for tourists in China are a no-go… or is it? The same CNN article also states that the men who do this can only offer their services for a few months of the year because it is physically taxing on their bodies and knees. Maybe, if we can’t offer exoskeletons to the tourists, we can offer them to those who are already helping them climb to their dream vacation destinations! We are back in business! If we can’t sell or rent powered exoskeletons to casual tourists, who would use them a few times per year, then we could offer them to the countless people who support and maintain all the inaccessible tourist attractions in high mountains and ancient castles.
References:
- The impact of biomechanical factors on tourist satisfaction and comfort in walking tourism: A study of Beijing’s walking tours, 2024-11-06, SIN-CHN, Molecular & Cellular Biomechanics, https://doi.org/10.62617/mcb.v21i2.553
- It seems that most people want their history and sightseeing without the physical exhaustion, Karl Zelik, LinkedIn
- In China, people are hiring ‘climbing buddies’ for big money. The more attractive they are, the higher the price, CNN, Mon December 9, 2024, Fred He, CNN
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