New web app

As part of its digital tourism strategy, SMT has launched a progressive web app. You can find it here. “The information must come to the visitor, not the visitor to the information,” explains Willi Rehbock, managing director of Steinhuder Meer Tourismus GmbH. “With this digital offering for visitors and residents, we can provide up-to-date information quickly, on the go, and in a clear, organized manner,” says Rehbock.

A destination's digital offerings are essential for showcasing the region—including all its rental properties, small and medium-sized businesses, and the full range of attractions—24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

What can the new "Mein Steinhuder Meer" app do?

© Patricia Chadde

The page is generated entirely from the SMT’s tourism database. It displays all the information important to visitors on-site regarding attractions, dining, events, and tours. The results are displayed by distance from the user’s location; the exact distance is specified, and users can navigate directly to their desired destination. Visitors can save all relevant information to a wish list, ensuring they always have their own personalized vacation guide with them and up to date. Staff at the tourist information centers can also compile personalized recommendations for visitors. These can either be scanned by the visitor using a QR code on their smartphone or printed out on paper and provided to them.

The progressive web app’s interface is designed for all guest touchpoints—such as information kiosks, desktops, hotel TVs, and tablets—not just the guest’s smartphone. The difference between a progressive web app and a “normal” app is that it opens in a browser via a URL (willkommen.steinhuder-meer.de). This makes it independent of an app store and eliminates the need for installation. However, it can be added to the home screen so that it opens like a “normal” app, with no browser address bar visible.

Free Wi-Fi at all SMT tourist information centers

© HMTG / Wyrwa

Free Wi-Fi is available to guests at the tourist information centers in Steinhude, Mardorf, and Neustadt. When you connect to the Wi-Fi, the URL willkommen.steinhuder-meer.de opens automatically, displaying all the latest information. What events are taking place today? Where can I grab a bite to eat or a drink right now? Which facilities are currently open? What bike and hiking trails are there around the Steinhuder Meer? “My Steinhuder Meer” as a digital guest brochure: Landlords can include a reference to the new digital service in their guest brochures. This allows overnight guests to conveniently check from their accommodations what there is to do the next day and where to stop for a bite to eat.