Inteligencia Artificial (IA)
Google launches AI agents to facilitate flight and hotel bookings.
Gianro Compagno
2026-01-29
5 min read
The report 'The Power of Travel 2050' highlights that tourism will continue to be a key pillar for the global economy, especially for Spain. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the traveler experience will lead to increased spending per tourist, thanks to better leisure time management and more efficient travel planning.
In the United States, companies like Marriott, Booking, and Expedia are already implementing AI-based innovations, such as virtual agents that facilitate travel organization. One example is Canvas in AI Mode, which generates personalized itineraries from simple descriptions, and new automated booking features for flights and hotels that delegate detail management to AI. These technologies align with Google's mission to make information accessible to everyone.
AI is evolving from a search assistant to a planning agent, simplifying processes that previously required many hours. Tools like Flight Deals, already available in Spain, help travelers find the best options.
The report notes that tourism growth by 2050 will come from both an increase in the volume of travelers, driven by the rise of the middle class in countries like China and India, and an increase in average spending per tourist, which is particularly relevant for Spain. Currently, 60% of travelers choosing Spain come from markets like the United States, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, which will be key to attracting higher-value tourists and promoting de-seasonalization.
AI will also enhance the recommendation of less traditional destinations within Spain, responding to the demand for authentic, cultural, and gastronomic experiences, especially among American travelers.
The report emphasizes the need for public administration to promote its destinations and generate relevant content so that AI agents can offer it to users. While private companies are already adapting their strategies to this new digital environment, the administration still has room for improvement in adopting these technologies.
Regarding the Spanish market, there is a trend towards attracting higher-value tourists and diversifying destinations, contributing to sustainability and growth outside traditional tourist enclaves.
Google, for its part, positions itself as an information facilitator, not as a booking platform. Its goal is to organize and present information accessibly, allowing users to make their reservations directly on hotel, airline, or agency websites. Google focuses on ensuring the accuracy of information and recommending the best personalized option for each traveler, without intending to become an OTA.
Source: hosteltur.com