Exploring the Intersection of Tourism, Artificial Intelligence and Travel: The Rise of the Metaverse and Its Implications

Abstract

The integration of tourism, artificial intelligence (AI) and travel has ushered in a new era of exploration. This book chapter delves into their interconnectedness and their transformative influence on the future of tourism. Firstly, it examines the concept of the metaverse – a virtual realm that enables immersive interactions between users and their surroundings. This virtual world presents novel opportunities for the travel sector, allowing tourists to experience destinations in captivating ways, without the constraints of physical travel. AI plays a pivotal role in the advancement of tourism, processing vast amounts of data to offer personalized recommendations, streamlining travel planning and providing round-the-clock customer service through AI-powered chatbots. Additionally, AI contributes to the development of virtual tour guides, offering tailored experiences based on travellers' interests, preferences and abilities. However, the chapter also addresses the broader implications of these technologies on the tourism industry, considering potential job displacement and economic impacts on local communities. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of utilizing these innovations in a manner that benefits both travelers and localities. In summary, this chapter provides an extensive exploration of the convergence of tourism, AI and travel, shedding light on the potential for growth and innovation in the industry while acknowledging the challenges and considerations associated with the metaverse in tourism and travel.

Citation

Basheer, S., Walia, S., Mehraj, D., Farooq, S. and Reshi, M.A. (2024), "Exploring the Intersection of Tourism, Artificial Intelligence and Travel: The Rise of the Metaverse and Its Implications", Alnoor, A., Bayram, G.E., XinYing, C. and Shah, S.H.A. (Ed.) The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Regenerative Tourism and Green Destinations (New Perspectives in Tourism and Hospitality Management), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 71-83. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83753-746-420241005