We’re looking at two big developments shaping the future of travel and planning: Agoda’s immersive AI tool for Indian travelers and the Incentive Research Foundation’s message about keeping the human in hospitality.
Agoda has launched an AI-powered vacation planner, and it’s one of the most immersive travel tools we’ve seen this year. Specifically tailored for Indian travelers, the platform allows users to generate personalized itineraries and destination suggestions using natural language prompts and visual storytelling—no filters, no forms.
Built with Google’s Gemini and Imagen AI models, the planner lives at AgodaVacationPlanner.com and will run as a limited-time experience until June 30. It blends AI automation with a visual, human-like touch—and includes narration by Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana, who serves as Agoda’s “Chief Wellness Officer,” Mr. Vacaywala.
It’s more than a campaign—it’s a proof of concept for how AI can combine functionality with fun, making trip planning engaging, intuitive, and hyper-personalized.
India is one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets, and Booking Holdings is clearly investing in innovation to win long-term loyalty.
This also marks a shift toward destination-specific AI, where tools don’t just answer broad questions but cater to the travel preferences and cultural nuances of individual markets.
If you're marketing to Indian travellers—or any fast-growing demographic—your messaging should reflect the curated, narrative-rich style they’re coming to expect. Tools like this are training guests to think in stories and visuals, not checklists. Make your listings and website feel like the beginning of an experience, not just a transaction.
At this year’s IRF Invitational in Cancun, the mood was one of optimism with a healthy dose of realism. With over 500 professionals in attendance, the central theme was clear: AI is becoming essential, but human interaction remains irreplaceable.
IRF President Stephanie Harris cited recent research showing:
63% of planners already use or plan to use AI, mostly for content creation, forecasting, and personalization.
But despite the tech momentum, the core value of incentive travel lies in face-to-face emotional connection, recognition, and immersive experiences.
Speakers emphasized that AI can help speed up logistics, streamline communications, and even generate inspiring proposals—but it can’t replicate the energy of being together in the same room. This is especially important as incentive travel evolves to meet the expectations of Gen Z, a cohort fluent in tech but also craving meaningful, shared experiences.
Geopolitical risks and market uncertainty may make companies hesitant to commit to large-scale events, but the emotional ROI of travel as a reward is still powerful—and growing.
If you’re looking to attract incentive travel groups or team retreats, lead with experience. Highlight how your property supports:
Connection: Common spaces, wellness amenities, local cultural access
Customization: Tailored group packages, local excursions, team-building options
Efficiency: Tech-friendly features like smart locks, group messaging, or digital concierge services
Consider building mini-itineraries or themed guides using AI tools
Test image-led storytelling on your direct booking site or Instagram Reels
Use conversational marketing (like WhatsApp or Messenger) for guest engagement
Connect with local event planners or corporate travel agents
Develop stay packages that appeal to small corporate groups or hybrid teams
Offer flexible pricing or value-adds for longer stays and repeat bookings
Agoda’s campaign and IRF’s research share a common thread: tech enhances travel, but human connection defines it. Whether it’s AI curating dream getaways for Indian travellers or a planner designing unforgettable reward trips, the heart of hospitality remains deeply personal.
STR professionals who blend automation with authenticity—and tech with trust—will be the ones who stand out in this new landscape.
Ready to elevate your direct booking game? Visit the Boostly website for the tools, strategies, and support you need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. And remember: Book Direct.
