Travel Weekly Group Ltd

🛫 As of 2025, 60% of travelers use AI responses for travel planning on Google. Google’s AI Mode, launched earlier this year, enables dynamic searches like “family-friendly tours in Costa Rica.” Less than 10% of bookings via AI Mode go through traditional OTAs, versus 56% directly with hotels. AI recommendations score over 4.3 out of 5 in trust. Average query lengths have doubled, emphasizing conversational searches. Propellic advises adapting strategies for AI-driven travel planning.

💻 The Institute of Travel & Tourism (ITT) partnered with SystemsX to offer the Sense AI platform to students at over 35 UK universities and colleges. This initiative aims to enhance travel and tourism students' skills through interactive learning and instant AI feedback. Claire Steiner of ITT highlighted the importance of this tool for real-world experience. The platform, now live, will prepare students for careers in the industry as they train with technology used by travel companies.

💻 Simpson Travel launches the 'Dreamcrafter' holiday finder, a pioneering AI tool, in October 2025. This innovation helps agents find the perfect villa or boutique hotel for clients, offering a personalized, image-led experience. Clients search using terms like 'best infinity pools' or 'uninterrupted sea views.' Managing Director Ed Pyke emphasizes the tool's focus on subjective preferences, enhancing the decision-making process. Head of Trade Sales, Hannah Naylor-Vane, highlights its usefulness for agents and client interaction.

🗺 AI-powered platform Sojern launched its first European Destinations Advisory Board for 2025. This inaugural meeting took place in Paris with notable members from across Europe, including Emma Gordon from Marketing Manchester and Eleni Mitraki from GNTO. The board focuses on audience measurement, sustainability, and AI-led personalization to bolster destination marketing. Sojern's initiative aims to drive Europe's tourism industry forward by collaborating with tourism leaders to develop innovative solutions for global growth.