Travellers Push Back On Robot-Only Holiday Planning

Artificial intelligence may be reshaping industries across the globe, but when it comes to planning holidays, Indian travellers are showing signs of AI fatigue. According to a new survey by travel platform Alike, 59 per cent of respondents rejected fully automated trip planning, instead favouring hybrid models where AI works alongside human experts.

The study found that only 11 per cent were comfortable relying entirely on algorithms to design their itineraries. Trust issues appear to be a major barrier, with 40 per cent saying online-only platforms fail to deliver transparency, pointing to hidden charges, misleading prices and lack of reliable support.

Alike recently launched its AI trip planner, Eia, designed to bridge this gap. The platform combines the efficiency of AI with the reassurance of human travel advisors and on-ground assistance, giving travellers the flexibility to co-create trips without losing the personal touch.

The appetite for digital-yet-human planning is strongest among younger travellers, with the 25–35 age group making up 62 per cent of survey responses. While many still chase the best deals (34 per cent), stress-free booking (28 per cent) and authentic advice (20 per cent) came close behind. Safety and dependable support were also high on the list of priorities.

Commenting on the insights, Ashish Sidhra, Co-founder at Alike, said, “These findings confirm what we’ve always believed—AI should be an enabler, not a replacement. Travellers want technology that inspires confidence and enhances personalisation, not algorithms that strip away agency. With Eia, we’re shaping a future where AI amplifies human creativity, and humans remain the final custodians of meaningful travel experiences.”

The survey’s message is clear: for meaningful journeys, travellers still want humans at the heart of their plans.