#Marriott Bonvoy #AI in travel #Lux-scaping

Revolutionizing Travel in 2026: AI and Luxurious Indulgence

Recent findings from a comprehensive study conducted across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) reveal significant insights into evolving travel preferences for 2026. With the participation of over 22,000 respondents, the research sheds light on two prominent trends: the increasing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in travel planning and the emergence of lux-scaping as a key indulgence for travelers.

Travelers Expect More Holidays

The first notable statistic from the report is that 79% of travelers in the EMEA region are planning to take the same amount or even more holidays in 2026 compared to the previous year. This inclination suggests a robust recovery and enthusiasm for travel, with the average traveler projecting five trips, including two domestic and two short-haul trips, along with one long-haul voyage.

The Rise of AI in Travel Planning

One of the standout revelations is the growing reliance on AI for travel arrangements, demonstrated by a significant increase in usage. Approximately 50% of respondents have utilized AI to assist with holiday planning, demonstrating an upsurge from 41% the previous year and just 26% the year before that. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger travelers, with 71% of those aged 18-24 reporting prior use of AI tools. Additionally, about 14% of travelers now rely on AI