On September 27, we celebrated World Tourism Day and reflected on the industry’s progress over the past year. Sustainable practices significantly contributed to growth, but the influence of travel technology cannot be overlooked.
As documented by Travel Daily Media, technology is enhancing convenience, fostering leadership in thought, promoting automation, and enabling more tailored experiences for consumers.
Will AI Become the Prime Tool for Travel Planning?
At the Digital Travel APAC 2025 and Singapore MICE Forum 2025, we explored how travelers are increasingly utilizing AI tools such as ChatGPT for planning their trips—from bookings to experiences—bypassing traditional methods.
Darya Efimova from epam noted: “When planning your trip, an AI assistant can support all tasks, from hotel bookings to calendar management. Picture an AI travel assistant like a travel agent without the human element.”
(Translation: When planning your trip, an AI assistant can help you do everything, from booking your hotel to adding the dates to your calendar. Think of an AI travel assistant as a travel agent, but without an actual human on the other end.)
Despite optimistic views, skepticism remains about whether AI might edge out traditional travel resources.
Arlen Ritchie, co-founder of 3Genius, supports the shift to AI but emphasizes the need for acceptance before it becomes widespread, pointing out how OTAs currently dominate monetization channels in the travel sector.
As Ritchie puts it: “Travel is a highly sought-after category for AI inquiries and is one of the most lucrative sectors in e-commerce.”
The Rise of Self-Service Technology in Travel
The integration of self-service technology in global travel has surged, initially introduced to limit personal contact. This development has notably simplified processes like check-ins and acquiring essential travel documents.
Further, self-service systems have bolstered order efficiency by minimizing human errors, granting travelers both convenience and personalized experiences.
Nevertheless, firms benefit by analyzing customer data processed through self-service kiosks to discern trends, shaping future marketing strategies and revenue potential.
Concluding Thoughts
While there’s initial discomfort around the increasing role of technology in travel, its growth heralds benefits for both the industry and consumers. As historical transitions often indicate, resistance to change is common; however, evolution is essential for progress in economic, industrial, and social realms.
