Imagine planning your dream summer getaway with just a few clicks, only to discover a hidden gem you’ve never heard of—a place that feels like it was tailor-made for you. That’s exactly what happened to Alan Smith, a 62-year-old adventurer who turned to AI to craft his perfect holiday. But here’s where it gets intriguing: the AI didn’t just suggest a destination; it uncovered a quaint seaside town in northern Spain that left him and his family utterly charmed. Castro Urdiales, with its 700-year-old gothic church, bustling stone harbor, and vibrant pintxos scene, became the highlight of their trip—a smaller, less touristy alternative to San Sebastián. But is AI the ultimate travel planner, or are there hidden pitfalls? Let’s dive in.
Alan’s journey began with a simple request to ChatGPT: find scenic spots in northern Spain with short drives between them. Among the suggestions was Castro Urdiales, a town of 30,000 that Alan had never encountered before. ‘It was buzzing,’ he recalls, ‘with all the charm of a hidden Spanish treasure.’ His story isn’t unique. A recent report by the travel association ABTA reveals that an increasing number of travelers are turning to AI for everything from destination ideas to detailed itineraries. But here’s the controversial part: while 8% of the population uses AI for travel planning, only 3% of Alan’s age group does—leaving many to wonder if older generations are missing out on this tech-savvy trend.
However, AI isn’t foolproof. Take Hannah Read, 37, who asked ChatGPT for a ferry route from the UK to Norway, only to discover the suggested route hadn’t existed since 2008. ‘I was disappointed,’ she admits, ‘but it taught me not to rely on AI 100%.’ On the flip side, David Harris, 46, used AI to plan a jam-packed 4.5-day trip to New York, trusting its suggestions without double-checking details. ‘It worked like a charm,’ he says, though he admits he didn’t think to ask for cheaper flight options—something he plans to try next time. And this is the part most people miss: AI can be incredibly helpful, but it’s only as good as the user’s understanding of its limitations.
Alistair Berry, a moderator on the UK Travel subreddit, warns that AI’s eagerness to please can sometimes lead to unrealistic itineraries. ‘ChatGPT might tell you can see London, Edinburgh, and the Cotswolds in four days, but you’ll likely spend most of that time on trains,’ he explains. His advice? Use AI as a starting point, but always fact-check its suggestions. After all, no one wants their holiday ruined by a misstep.
So, would you let AI plan your next adventure? It’s a question that sparks debate. While some swear by its convenience, others caution against blind trust. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: As AI becomes more integrated into travel planning, are we losing the joy of discovering places organically, or is it simply enhancing our ability to explore? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
