Planning a trip can be a daunting task, with guidebooks offering generic recommendations and web searches yielding overwhelming results. However, some travelers have found success using artificial intelligence chatbots like ChatGPT and Bard to plan their vacations. These services act as free travel agents, creating customized itineraries based on travelers’ preferences and interests. One traveler, Alpa Patel, used ChatGPT to plan a family trip to Edinburgh, Scotland. After becoming frustrated with Google’s recommendations, Patel asked ChatGPT for advice and was given a clear list of neighborhoods and best hotels. The chatbot also gave her alternatives for day trips since her younger son gets carsick, offering train rides as a viable transportation option.
The key to using AI chatbots like ChatGPT effectively is to provide as much information as possible. Instead of relying on generic travel ideas, travelers should identify their niche interests, such as 1950s architecture in New York City or the best tonkotsu ramen in Tokyo’s Ginza neighborhood. However, it is important to verify any recommendations, as the chatbots may not have up-to-date information. ChatGPT, for example, is based on historical information up to 2021.
While AI chatbots cannot book reservations or provide current flight prices, travel companies are working on integrating these services with the booking process. Expedia recently introduced an integration with ChatGPT that saves its recommendations in the Expedia app, allowing travelers to easily book accommodations, flights, activities, and cars.
Overall, AI chatbots can be a useful tool for generating travel ideas and fostering a collaborative approach to trip planning. Not only do they offer travelers customized recommendations based on their preferences, but they also inspire travelers to delve deeper into destinations they may not have considered before.
