Using AI for travel planning

[explanade]

Someone noted that a lot of people are using AI to generate itineraries.

So I Googled and there were some articles of travel writers trying different AI travel apps and comparing the results to what they knew about the destination, which often was their home or a place they knew very well.

But one stat really surprised me:

But around 70 percent of Americans are using AI for travel planning, according to a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of the personal-finance app Moneylion.

I Used AI to Plan a Trip to Maui. The Results Were Unexpected.

Of the free AI tools I tried, results were middling, and some were befuddling. But one does have potential.

www.outsideonline.com

That is very fast adoption. I haven't ever tried ChatGPT or other chatbots. I haven't turned on Apple Intelligence on my iPhone either. But I still encounter AI, with Google search results now having that AI summary box at the top. Or Amazon reviews now curated by Rufus. You used to be able to search through reviews and find relevant reviews. Now AI summarizes it for you.

OTOH, not too surprised because if you go to travel forums, most of the questions are people asking others on the forum about itineraries.

I guess people don't use guide books any more. I do like to exchange information on travel forums but generally not specific itineraries.

I still do my own research but it's very time consuming so maybe it makes a lot more sense for people still working.

 

[walkinwood]

I've used chatgpt to get an initial itinerary for our trip to Iceland earlier in the year. But I augmented/changed it based on reading an old fashioned travel guide book - Lonely Planet - and doing more internet searches. Interestingly, my final itinerary was pretty close to what chatgpt suggested. But - Iceland has limited variations on a trip around the island, so it is probably easy to suggest an itinerary.

Use it - it's free. Start with high level instructions like number of days & the area, then you can keep fine tuning it with statements about what you like, dislike, how many night in a place, hours on the road, types of activities etc. It will even suggest hotels (again with your specifications) if you ask. I found it a fun exercise. Google & Facebook also have AI chatbots that you can use.

 

[easysurfer]

... Or Amazon reviews now curated by Rufus. You used to be able to search through reviews and find relevant reviews. Now AI summarizes it for you.
...

I like Rufus for Amazon reviews. Having the AI Rufus summary surely beats trying to read through a bunch or reviews myself and drawing a conclusion. Now I can quickly see if the product is a quick discard or should I invest more of my time.

 

[Out-to-Lunch]

Inspired by your post, I tried three of the ones listed in the article that you linked to, and asked for a 7-day itinerary for the city where I live. They all gave quite reasonable itineraries. The itineraries had a fair amount of commonality, but a lot of good ideas amongst the different apps.

 

[CO-guy]

Using Gen AI at the start of trip planning is a great idea. However, using follow-up questions to search for specific interests or priorities can help to refine the itinerary.

 

[Luvdogs]

I played around with it in 2023 for a 10- day road trip from Toronto to Edmonton. It was pretty reasonable in miles to drive per day and what to see until I guess it figured that there weren't any days left.

The last day of the itinerary was to drive 870 miles! It's probably gotten better since.

 

[Doribe]

I used Chat GBT to identify highly rated churches in Rome. I used Chat GBT to make a walking tour of all identified highly rated churches within a mile a specific point. I didn't follow it exactly, but it gave me a good starting point.

 

[Go-NoGo]

I have a custom instruction for ChatGPT that turns on when I type in "tour guide mode" - it then describes the location as if it were a your personal tour guide.
Here is how it described the "Grand central station" in NY:
>>

Ah, Grand Central Terminal! A true gem of New York City, combining breathtaking architecture, rich history, and the pulse of modern travel. Let’s step into this iconic landmark together and uncover its secrets!

---

Arrival: A Grand Entrance​

As you approach Grand Central, your excitement builds. Located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, it dominates the neighborhood with its majestic Beaux-Arts façade. Look out for the massive clock above the entrance, surrounded by the sculptures of Mercury, Minerva, and Hercules—a symbol of speed, wisdom, and strength.
Once inside, you’re greeted by the Main Concourse, a vast hall bustling with commuters, tourists, and locals alike. Let your eyes wander up to the iconic celestial ceiling. Painted in vibrant blues and golds, it depicts the constellations as they were imagined in the Middle Ages. Fun fact: it's reversed, as if seen from heaven, looking down!

---

Navigating the Terminal​

Grand Central Terminal isn’t just a train station—it’s a city within a city. Here’s how it’s laid out:

1. Main Concourse:​

• Clock at the Information Booth: Meet me under the clock! This four-faced opal clock is a famous rendezvous point and worth millions.
• Departures & Arrivals Board: Old-school flipping displays give a nostalgic feel as you plan your journey.
• Ticket Booths: If you need assistance or tickets for the Metro-North Railroad, this is your spot.

2. Dining Concourse:​

Head downstairs for a foodie paradise! From classic New York bagels to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include:

• Grand Central Oyster Bar: A seafood institution since 1913—perfect for fresh oysters and chowder.
• Magnolia Bakery: Treat yourself to a famous cupcake.
• Shake Shack: A reliable go-to for burgers and shakes.

3. Shops and Boutiques:​

On the main and mezzanine levels, you’ll find charming shops offering everything from fine jewelry to books and gifts. It's ideal for a quick retail therapy session.

4. The Tracks:​

• Metro-North Railroad: Grand Central serves as the starting point for trains heading north to Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. Look for the track numbers (they’re well-labeled).
• Subway Connections: The 4, 5, 6, 7, and S lines are easily accessible from the station, linking you to the rest of NYC.

---

Hidden Gems:​

1. Whispering Gallery: Just outside the Oyster Bar, test the acoustic marvel of the Whispering Arches. Stand at opposite corners, whisper into the wall, and hear your voice carried to your friend on the other side!
2. Campbell Apartment: Once a private office, now a swanky cocktail lounge. Step back into 1920s opulence with a drink in hand.
3. Vanderbilt Hall: Once a waiting room, now an event space. During the holidays, it hosts festive markets and displays.

---

Tips for the Journey​

• Photography Alert: Grand Central is incredibly photogenic. Don’t forget to capture the ceiling, the clock, and those grand chandeliers.
• Peak Hours: Weekdays 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM are commuter rush times. Visit during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the terminal's beauty and tranquility.
• Free Tours: Take a self-guided audio tour or join a guided one to dive deeper into the station’s history and secrets.

---

Fun Fact Stop​

Did you know Grand Central Terminal isn’t a station? The term "terminal" is used because all the train lines end here—no trains pass through. And though Penn Station may be busier, Grand Central is a cultural icon, featured in countless movies and TV shows.

---

Off We Go!​

Whether you’re boarding a train, enjoying a cocktail, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Grand Central Terminal is more than a transit hub—it’s a timeless masterpiece. What’s next on your NYC adventure? A walk to Bryant Park? A jaunt to the Empire State Building? I’m ready to guide you!

 

[explanade]

I have a custom instruction for ChatGPT that turns on when I type in "tour guide mode" - it then describes the location as if it were a your personal tour guide.
Here is how it described the "Grand central station" in NY:
>>

Ah, Grand Central Terminal! A true gem of New York City, combining breathtaking architecture, rich history, and the pulse of modern travel. Let’s step into this iconic landmark together and uncover its secrets!

---

Arrival: A Grand Entrance​

As you approach Grand Central, your excitement builds. Located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, it dominates the neighborhood with its majestic Beaux-Arts façade. Look out for the massive clock above the entrance, surrounded by the sculptures of Mercury, Minerva, and Hercules—a symbol of speed, wisdom, and strength.
Once inside, you’re greeted by the Main Concourse, a vast hall bustling with commuters, tourists, and locals alike. Let your eyes wander up to the iconic celestial ceiling. Painted in vibrant blues and golds, it depicts the constellations as they were imagined in the Middle Ages. Fun fact: it's reversed, as if seen from heaven, looking down!

---

Navigating the Terminal​

Grand Central Terminal isn’t just a train station—it’s a city within a city. Here’s how it’s laid out:

1. Main Concourse:​

• Clock at the Information Booth: Meet me under the clock! This four-faced opal clock is a famous rendezvous point and worth millions.
• Departures & Arrivals Board: Old-school flipping displays give a nostalgic feel as you plan your journey.
• Ticket Booths: If you need assistance or tickets for the Metro-North Railroad, this is your spot.

2. Dining Concourse:​

Head downstairs for a foodie paradise! From classic New York bagels to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include:

• Grand Central Oyster Bar: A seafood institution since 1913—perfect for fresh oysters and chowder.
• Magnolia Bakery: Treat yourself to a famous cupcake.
• Shake Shack: A reliable go-to for burgers and shakes.

3. Shops and Boutiques:​

On the main and mezzanine levels, you’ll find charming shops offering everything from fine jewelry to books and gifts. It's ideal for a quick retail therapy session.

4. The Tracks:​

• Metro-North Railroad: Grand Central serves as the starting point for trains heading north to Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. Look for the track numbers (they’re well-labeled).
• Subway Connections: The 4, 5, 6, 7, and S lines are easily accessible from the station, linking you to the rest of NYC.

---

Hidden Gems:​

1. Whispering Gallery: Just outside the Oyster Bar, test the acoustic marvel of the Whispering Arches. Stand at opposite corners, whisper into the wall, and hear your voice carried to your friend on the other side!
2. Campbell Apartment: Once a private office, now a swanky cocktail lounge. Step back into 1920s opulence with a drink in hand.
3. Vanderbilt Hall: Once a waiting room, now an event space. During the holidays, it hosts festive markets and displays.

---

Tips for the Journey​

• Photography Alert: Grand Central is incredibly photogenic. Don’t forget to capture the ceiling, the clock, and those grand chandeliers.
• Peak Hours: Weekdays 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM are commuter rush times. Visit during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the terminal's beauty and tranquility.
• Free Tours: Take a self-guided audio tour or join a guided one to dive deeper into the station’s history and secrets.

---

Fun Fact Stop​

Did you know Grand Central Terminal isn’t a station? The term "terminal" is used because all the train lines end here—no trains pass through. And though Penn Station may be busier, Grand Central is a cultural icon, featured in countless movies and TV shows.

---

Off We Go!​

Whether you’re boarding a train, enjoying a cocktail, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Grand Central Terminal is more than a transit hub—it’s a timeless masterpiece. What’s next on your NYC adventure? A walk to Bryant Park? A jaunt to the Empire State Building? I’m ready to guide you!

Wow the tone of that text is something.

It’s not what you’d get in a guide book, which is more formal, laying out the information.

There must be a way to tone down the florid language?

 

[audreyh1]

I kinda liked it!

 

[Go-NoGo]

Wow the tone of that text is something.

It’s not what you’d get in a guide book, which is more formal, laying out the information.

There must be a way to tone down the florid language?

Sure, just ask that the tone be "matter of fact" if that is what you want, and it will do it.
But I like the "tour guide mode with flair"

 

[CO-guy]

Sure, just ask that the tone be "matter of fact" if that is what you want, and it will do it.
But I like the "tour guide mode with flair"

Exactly! You can have it explain it to you as bluntly as you like or tell it to, "explain it to me like I'm 10 years old and don't sound condescending."

 

[walkinwood]

I have a custom instruction for ChatGPT that turns on when I type in "tour guide mode"

Thanks for that. I didn't know about that feature.
But.. how do you turn it on with a phrase?

 

[Koolau]

I kinda liked it!

Pretty accurate too from what I remember - especially of my impressions. YMMV

 

[Go-NoGo]

Thanks for that. I didn't know about that feature.
But.. how do you turn it on with a phrase?

In ChatGPT, click on your Name (top right corner), then Customize ChatGPT.
Then enter custom instructions, this tells the AI how to respond to specific prompts.

My custom prompt for tour guide mode is:
"When I say tourist (or tour) guide mode - respond like a expert tour guide with information in a interesting fashion"

Then whenever I start a new session I type in "tour guide mode" it turns into my personal tour guide.

 

[walkinwood]

booking.com has an AI Trip Planner, but I haven't used it yet.

 

[Sojourner]

In ChatGPT, click on your Name (top right corner), then Customize ChatGPT.
Then enter custom instructions, this tells the AI how to respond to specific prompts.

My custom prompt for tour guide mode is:
"When I say tourist (or tour) guide mode - respond like a expert tour guide with information in a interesting fashion"

Then whenever I start a new session I type in "tour guide mode" it turns into my personal tour guide.

Wow, how cool! Do you have to pay for that feature (via a premium subscription) or is it something the free version will do?

 

[Go-NoGo]

Wow, how cool! Do you have to pay for that feature (via a premium subscription) or is it something the free version will do?

It's available in the free version, which is what I am using.

Here's the kicker, you can give it any set of instructions in the customize section, like "When the prompt is Physical therapist - respond like an expert PT with detailed medical info and therapeutic measures.

"Expert Cardiologist" , Nutritionist expert" , Horticultural expert-- your imagination is the limit.

 

[Sunset]

I just tried one of those AI (2nd best one) OP article had. It certainly gave a great starting point for a 2 week travel itinerary.
Nicely by further messages to it, I could modify the results to be better: "We prefer hotels that cost $200 or less per night" made it forget about the $1,256 per night hotel it originally suggested

It included many tourist sites I had thought would be good to see.

Overall it seems helpful.