Expert shows how to use AI to plan travel

Experts say AI "knows" a lot, but doesn't know who you are, the trick is learning how to ask questions and knowing when to dig deeper than what the algorithm suggests.

Experts say AI "knows" a lot, but doesn't know who you are, the trick is learning how to ask questions and knowing when to dig deeper than what the algorithm suggests.

The preparation for the trip can be just as exciting as the actual journey. Dr Daisy Kanagasapapathy, Associate Dean of Tourism and Hospitality Management at RMIT University Vietnam, said AI offers speed, convenience and a smart starting point, but it cannot replace human intuition, local knowledge or hands-on experience.

"AI is like a well-read but not close friend who knows a lot, but doesn't know who you are. The trick is learning to ask questions and knowing when to find out more than what the algorithm suggests," said Daisy Kanagasapapathy, explaining why AI is still a work in progress and suggesting ways to use AI to plan your trip.

AI gives suggestions about Dalat travel schedule.

Why AI can give wrong suggestions

Technically, there are two common reasons why AI makes inaccurate suggestions. First, training data is time-limited. Many AI models like ChatGPT (free version) are only trained on data up to a certain point in time, like the end of 2023. So the AI might not “know” that a restaurant closed last month, that a new exhibition opened, or that ticket prices just changed.

Second, AI lacks real-time updates. AI is not a search engine by default. Without being connected to live web data (via a plugin, API, or real-time web access), AI cannot provide current ticket prices or booking status. If you ask AI, “How much is the entrance fee to Ba Na Hills now?”, you might get a price from two years ago instead of the most recent. Not to mention, prices can change with the seasons or promotions.
User-generated content can be biased or unverified. If an AI reads a bunch of old blog posts about a place that closed during Covid-19, it might still suggest it without realizing that it’s actually closed.

The AI suggested location has been permanently closed.

Why are AI suggested schedules often generic?

AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and other AI travel planning platforms often suggest popular destinations because they are largely trained on the abundance of popular content available. If millions of blog posts, social media posts, and travel websites all talk about the same places like “Eiffel Tower” or “Ha Long Bay,” those destinations will dominate the AI training data. AI will associate popularity with relevance, even if users expect less popular places.

Younger travelers are often looking for authentic, local experiences or experiences that are specific to their interests and reflect their personality or social values. Search terms are less common. These suggestions are often more complex and difficult to find unless users discuss them in depth, rate them frequently, and tag them consistently.

AI reflects mass information unless users make specific requests. Therefore, Gen Z often uses AI to sketch out a rough idea, then dig deeper on TikTok, Threads, or Facebook groups to personalize the plan.

Using AI to plan personal travel effectively

Despite its limitations, AI is still a useful tool if you know how to exploit it intelligently.

Start with AI, but don't stop there. Use AI to create a rough itinerary like "Three Days of Food in Osaka" or "Eco-Tourism in the Mekong Delta." Then, check back on Google Maps, TripAdvisor, TikTok to read reviews and see updated photos.

A group of young tourists planned a self-guided tour of Mui Ne using AI combined with searching for information from social networking platforms.

Be specific. Instead of asking “What to do in Ho Chi Minh City,” try “Suggest a two-day itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City with street food, art galleries, and public transportation.” The more specific you are about your budget, travel style, and diet, the more relevant your results will be.

Ask the AI to compare options. For example, "compare Mui Ne and Quy Nhon for a relaxing vacation with local seafood" or "are there any little-known places in Ninh Binh that are popular with students?".

Verify information yourself as it may change over time. Always double-check opening hours, ticket prices, and seasonality on the official website or Google. Think of AI as a starting point, not a complete replacement.

Look for an AI tool that integrates live data. Some platforms now incorporate AI with real-time updates, such as Expedia, Kayak, or Klook. This is a more reliable option for checking prices and booking availability.

vnexpress.net

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/chuyen-gia-chi-cach-dung-ai-lap-ke-hoach-du-lich-post878949.html