Google Introduces AI-Powered Vacation Planning Features in Search, Maps, and Gemini

By Huma Ishfaq ⏐ 10 months ago ⏐

3 min read

Google Introduces Ai Powered Vacation Planning Features In Search Maps And Gemini

Google has announced a suite of AI-driven tools aimed at revolutionizing how travelers 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.”

How It Works

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 travelers 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

If you have taken screenshots of hotel bookings, restaurants, or attractions, Google Maps will identify these images and pin them on a map for easy reference.
Instead of manually searching for places, users can view all saved locations in one organized list.
This feature also allows direct navigation from the screenshot list.

Why It’s Useful

Reduces the hassle of searching for places manually.
Keeps all travel-related details in one place.
Works as a visual travel planner within Google Maps.

Availability: Rolling out for iOS users in the U.S. first, with Android support coming soon.

Hotel Price Tracking Now Available Globally

Following the success of Google Flights’ price tracking, Google is now expanding this feature to hotels, helping users find the best deals.

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.

Gemini’s ‘Gems’ Feature

Google’s AI assistant Gemini is introducing a new feature called “Gems”, which allows users to create custom AI-powered assistants for travel planning.

How It Works

Users can set up a personalized travel planner within Gemini.
The AI can suggest destinations, packing checklists, and even travel tips.
For example, you can create a Gem with prompts like:
“Help me plan a backpacking trip across Europe.”
“Suggest kid-friendly attractions in Orlando.”