Interview: AI is transforming traveler experience, says Spanish tourism event director

SEVILLE, Spain, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) — Artificial intelligence (AI) is “transforming the traveler’s experience” as the global tourism industry increasingly adopts cutting-edge technologies, according to Silvia Aviles, director of the upcoming Tourism Innovation Summit (TIS).
In an interview with Xinhua ahead of this year’s TIS event in Seville, Aviles highlighted how AI tools like automated bots on platforms such as WhatsApp are revolutionizing the travel experience by offering personalized, multilingual content. “The experience is becoming much more tailored and focused,” she said.
The fifth edition of the summit, which will take place from Oct. 23 to 25, will showcase a wide range of technological innovations applied to the travel industry, including AI, big data, and virtual reality.
Aviles noted that the digital age has drastically changed the behavior of the average traveler. Many travelers are becoming more mindful of the impact of tourism on the environment, she said. “Even so, no one is ready to give up traveling,” she added.
The future of tourism, according to Aviles, will focus on offering highly personalized and unique experiences while addressing the industry’s challenges, such as environmental impacts, to ensure tourism’s positive contribution to society.
TIS 2024 will feature over 200 companies presenting the latest innovations in AI, cybersecurity, 5G, augmented reality, and other key technologies for tourism. More than 400 experts and industry leaders will deliver over 150 talks during the event.
Aviles urged tourism professionals to rethink and reshape their approaches, encouraging them to learn from industry examples to enhance their competitiveness.
China will be the guest country at this year’s summit, a decision that highlights the importance and potential of the Chinese tourism market, Aviles said. She added that the event aims to foster stronger connections between China and Europe.
This year’s summit is expected to draw more than 7,000 professionals from the global tourism sector, including a delegation from China. ■