You Can Ask AI to Plan a Trip—But Should You Trust It To?
Why AI Will Never Replace a Human Travel Advisor
Lately, it seems like every conversation I have, whether it’s with fellow entrepreneurs, clients, or industry colleagues, circles back to one topic: AI. I recently attended an AI workshop with Callan Faulkner and TeamWomen about how to incorporate AI tools into your business, and a fellow attendee asked me if I think AI will take over the travel advisor industry.
AI is powerful. It’s everywhere. It’s evolving fast. And yes, I use it regularly in my business for research, idea generation, and even drafting initial content. But when it comes to custom travel planning, there’s one thing I know for sure:
AI simply can’t compete with the human touch.
Some people wonder if tools like ChatGPT will eventually make travel advisors obsolete. I don’t think so. Because travel...real travel...isn’t just about logistics.
It’s about meaningful experiences, trusted support, and knowing that someone has your back before, during, and even after your trip.
Here’s what a well-trained AI can’t offer… and what I make sure my clients at Puffin Nest Travel Co. always receive:
Tailored Recommendations AI relies on data. I rely on you. I ask about your past travel hits and misses, the energy you're hoping for on this trip, your kid’s picky eating habits, your need for downtime between museums. Then I design an itinerary that aligns with who you are not just what’s trending.
Local Insight AI pulls from the internet. I pull from relationships. From boutique hotels that don’t make it onto big booking sites to trusted guides who know how to tailor a walking tour for your family, I work with vetted partners around the world to create immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences. Ones that are often... un-Googleable.
Real-Time Support AI doesn’t notice when your flight’s delayed or your ferry gets canceled. I do. And I (or one of my partners) will be there to rebook, reroute, and reassure you, often before you even realize something’s gone wrong.
Exclusive Perks AI isn’t calling ahead to arrange early check-in, a surprise bottle of wine, or the room with that view. Through my industry affiliations and partnerships, my clients receive complimentary benefits at thousands of properties worldwide, perks that add real value and a touch of magic to the experience.
Time Savings & Peace of Mind Sure, AI can create a generic itinerary in seconds. But you'll still spend hours vetting hotels, cross-checking ferry schedules, wondering if that “highly rated” tour is actually worth it. Or… you can hand it off. I plan every element—from the big picture to the small details—so all you need to do is pack.
Inspiration is easy. Implementation takes expertise. It’s not about whether AI can help, it’s about knowing when it can’t. And when it comes to planning seamless, culturally rich, emotionally resonant travel experiences, the answer is clear:
You need a human.
If you’ve been dreaming of your next big trip and want it to feel effortless, personalized, and entirely unforgettable, I’d love to help you make it happen.
Let’s talk.