Google has announced a suite of AI-driven tools aimed at revolutionizing how travellers plan their vacations. These updates, rolling out across Google Search, Maps, and Gemini, focus on personalized itinerary suggestions, automated trip planning, and enhanced hotel booking features.
Here’s everything you need to know about these new tools:
AI Overviews in Google Search
Google is expanding AI Overviews to help users generate customized travel itineraries effortlessly. Instead of spending hours researching and planning, users can now simply type a query like:
“Create an itinerary for Costa Rica with a focus on nature.”
“Plan a five-day trip to Paris with top tourist attractions.”
- Google’s AI instantly generates a detailed itinerary, breaking it down day by day with recommendations for activities, dining, and sightseeing.
- The AI compiles information from across the web, including user reviews, photos, and travel guides.
- Each recommendation is linked to Google Maps, allowing travellers to explore locations seamlessly.
- Users can export these itineraries to Google Docs, Gmail, or Google Maps for future reference.
Why It’s Useful
- Eliminates the need for multiple searches.
- Saves time by generating well-structured itineraries.
- Provides interactive maps with location-based recommendations.
Availability: Currently rolling out in the U.S., with global expansion expected soon.
Google Maps’ New Screenshot Integration
Google Maps is introducing a “Screenshots List” feature that automatically recognizes and organizes travel-related screenshots saved on a user’s phone.
How It Works
- Users can enable “Track hotel prices” on Google Hotels.
- Google will send email alerts when there’s a significant price drop for hotels in a chosen destination.
- Travelers can set filters for specific dates, star ratings, amenities, and locations.
Why It’s Useful
- Helps travelers book at the best possible rate.
- Eliminates the need to check prices manually every day.
- Works similarly to Google Flights’ price tracking, which has been a game-changer for airfare deals.
Availability: Now available globally.
