How AI is Changing the Way We Travel – And Why It Matters to Hosts Too

Imagine this – You are planning your next holiday. Instead of scouring ten different websites, an app powered by artificial intelligence (AI) already knows your budget, favourite cuisines, and preferred travel style. Within seconds, it suggests a MyRehat homestay in Penang with the best Nasi Kandar joints nearby, and even reminds you to pack an umbrella because, guess what? Rain’s expected.

That’s not science fiction anymore. AI is here, and it’s completely transforming how we travel and host. From smart planning to dynamic guest engagement, AI is shaping a future where both travellers and hosts win.

Heck, imagine you don’t even have to type any of it. Just use voice command and everything is taken care of!

The Numbers Don’t Lie

The AI in travel market is projected to grow from USD 2.95 billion in 2024 to USD 13.38 billion by 2030 (Source: Research and Markets). Additionally, a survey by Booking.com found that 63% of travellers want AI to offer travel suggestions based on their past trips.

From personalised itineraries to robotic hotel check-ins, AI is already touching every part of the travel experience.

How Travellers Use AI Today

• AI-powered Chatbots: MyRehat, the one and only locally grown online experience platform offers instant assistance, from accommodation bookings to outdoor experience ideas.

• Itinerary Builders: Google Travel and TripIt use AI to design personalised schedules, factoring in opening hours, distances, and even weather.

(Source: www.tripit.com)

• Language Translation: Apps like Google Translate and Papago help bridge the language barrier during travel.

(Source: https://ifdesign.com/en/winner-ranking/project/papago-translate-app/235688)

• Facial Recognition for Airport Check-ins: Airports in Singapore, Dubai, and the U.S. use AI to streamline immigration and boarding.
• Dynamic Pricing Alerts: AI tracks fluctuations to recommend the best time to book a flight or hotel.

“A solo traveller using Agoda might get a ping that his desired hotel in Munich has dropped 15% in price and can instantly book within the app”

But What About Hosts?

For hosts, AI isn’t about taking away control — it’s about taking away stress. Here’s how it helps:

• Auto-replies & FAQs: Automate common questions (“Is there parking?”) using AI chat tools like Tars or ManyChat.

(Source: https://manychat.com/blog/manychat-sequences-tutorial/)

• Smart Pricing: Tools like Pricelabs or Beyond Pricing adjust your room rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events.
• Sentiment Analysis: AI tools can scan reviews and summarise guest sentiment, helping you identify what to fix or enhance.
• Maintenance Prediction: AI-integrated IoT systems (like Nest or SmartThings) alert you when systems need upkeep.

(Source: www.nest.ai)

• Photo Generation with Google Gemini: Don’t have professional photos of your space or want to visually enhance your listings? Google Gemini can help you create realistic, eye-catching visuals using text prompts. For example: 

“A cozy guesthouse bedroom with warm lighting, a welcome basket with snacks, and a batik throw blanket on the bed”

“A guy alone in the forest, wearing hiking gear, looking exhausted taking a break”

How MyRehat Leverages AI

At MyRehat, we believe smart travel is the future of travel. Our platform is actively developing AI integrations to benefit both hosts and travellers:

• Dahlia AI: MyRehat has introduced the Dahlia AI chatbot, designed to assist users with travel inquiries. This chatbot ensures travellers receive instant, accurate information, enhancing their overall experience. Dahlia can answer questions like:

“What are some family-friendly activities in Kuala Lumpur?”

“Can you recommend halal dining options near my accommodation?”

“What’s the best time to visit Cameron Highlands?”

• Smart Recommendations: By analysing user preferences and past behaviours, MyRehat’s AI suggests accommodations and activities tailored to individual needs. For instance, a user interested in camping might be recommended a glamping trip at Sunrise View Village, Sarawak.

Why It Matters

Modern travellers demand speed, convenience, and personalisation. AI allows small operators to compete with big hotel chains by enhancing guest experience without ballooning costs.

For example, an AI tool might notify a host that bookings in Ipoh spike during school holidays and suggest running a promotion a month in advance. Or, it may flag that listings with the keyword “family-friendly” perform better during Eid.

All in all, AI is revolutionising the travel industry including in Malaysia. Platforms like MyRehat are leading the way by integrating AI tools such as the Dahlia chatbot, ensuring users have access to real-time information and tailored recommendations. As technology continues to evolve, embracing AI will be key to enhancing travel experiences across the nation.

Needless to say, AI isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a revolution that’s quietly making your travel smoother and your hosting more efficient. Whether you’re a globetrotter looking for the perfect stay or a host trying to make your property stand out, AI is your ally.

At MyRehat, we embrace technology with a human touch. We use AI not to replace hospitality, but to elevate it. So the next time you book a MyRehat stay or receive a guest from across the globe, remember – A little intelligence goes a long way in making travel truly memorable.

For more information and to experience these AI features firsthand, visit www.myrehat.com.