Best Western and Tripadvisor Innovate with AI for Soccer Fans' 2026 Travel Planning

Revolutionizing Travel for Soccer Enthusiasts

As excitement builds for the 2026 Summer Soccer Tournament, travel planning for fans is receiving a significant upgrade. Best Western Hotels & Resorts, a globally recognized hospitality brand, has partnered with the renowned travel platform, Tripadvisor, to introduce an innovative, AI-powered trip planning tool named "Go for the Goal." This groundbreaking initiative is tailored specifically for soccer fans eager to navigate the complexities of multi-city travel, allowing them to optimize their adventures while following their favorite teams.

The Launch of Go for the Goal

Unveiled on January 29, 2026, this user-friendly platform is designed to cater to the needs of those attending one of the most anticipated international sporting events. With AI technology at its core, "Go for the Goal" analyzes user preferences, offering personalized travel itineraries and accommodations tailored to the unique challenges posed by large-scale sporting events. Fans often need to juggle accommodation, transportation, and local activities across several cities within a limited timeframe. This platform simplifies those logistics, ensuring a smoother travel experience.

Tailored Recommendations and Convenience

The integrated platform connects fans with a selection of over 200 Best Western properties located within a 25-mile radius of the tournament's host stadiums throughout North America. The AI-based recommendations are designed to prioritize accessibility and preferences while offering a diverse spectrum of accommodation options. From luxury stays at WorldHotels™ to budget-friendly choices like SureStay®, there’s something for every fan's needs.

In addition to lodging, the platform provides suggestions for transportation between different match venues, as well as curated experiences, such as local dining and cultural highlights. Users can easily modify their plans based on evolving preferences, resulting in a truly dynamic travel experience.

A Commitment to Soccer and Travel

Joelle Park, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of BWH Hotels, expressed the company’s commitment to enhancing travel experiences for soccer fans. She remarked, "Soccer is surging across North America, and this summer’s global tournament will inspire millions. We aim to provide intuitive solutions that empower travelers to discover and book hotels effortlessly."

The partnership between Best Western and Tripadvisor marks a new era in travel planning, harnessing cutting-edge technology to support a growing fanbase. Steven Paganelli, VP of Global Media Partnerships at Tripadvisor, stated, "With our AI trip planner, we’re excited to elevate the overall journey for attendees at this global event. This is a rare opportunity to engage in sports tourism and help fans create unforgettable experiences."

Availability and Future Plans

Currently, "Go for the Goal" is accessible across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with plans for expansion into additional international markets. The platform offers options in both English and Spanish to cater to a wider audience, ensuring that fans from various backgrounds can enjoy seamless travel planning.

As an official partner of the United Soccer League (USL), Best Western Hotels & Resorts is deeply invested in the growth and support of soccer throughout North America. The launch of this AI-enhanced platform is a testament to their ongoing efforts to celebrate the sport and its passionate fans.

For those ready to tackle their travel plans for the Summer 2026 tournament, Best Western and Tripadvisor invite you to explore their innovative planning tool at goforthegoal.ai.