KARRYON’s 2016 prediction that Chatbots would infiltrate the travel industry is coming true as more businesses rely on new technology to stay in contact with clients 24/7.
For those out of the loop, Chatbots are a form of artificial intelligence, which uses pre-programmed responses to communicate with users.
Similar to Siri.
Tigerair, was among the first in Australia’s travel industry to utilise AI in communicating with guests, followed by FCM Travel and now it’s Contiki.
The youth tour operator today unveiled its own Chatbot named ‘Tiki’ who is able to answer questions, recommend trips and explain the brand’s various travel styles.
Currently available through Facebook messenger, Tiki is designed to assist both Agents and consumers by taking users through a set of questions about their personality, travel preferences and tastes.
Using Contiki’s useful tone of voice, the AI presents users with memes and gifs to evaluate their style.
Once Tiki has collected relevant information, it identifies the user’s travel style – Discoverer, High Energy, Independent Insider, In-Depth Explorer, Sailing, Cruise & Beach, Winter & Ski, Short Trips & Festivals, and Camping – and suggests a number of trips that would suite them.
From there, travellers can scroll through the various options and then contact their Travel Agent to book.
That’s right, Tiki does NOT take bookings.
Contiki stressed that it’s aware of the human necessity when it comes to destination knowledge, customer service and bookings.
“Tiki is a tool that can be used to bring some fun into the research phase of travel.”
Vanessa Stavrou, Contiki Marketing Director
“It will also help agents to better understand their clients style, and give them a leg up on suggesting experiences that suit their motivations, tastes and preferences.”
Click here to chat to Tiki.
Meanwhile, Contiki is also currently offering a saving of up to $660 on its Europe Summer 2018 trips when booked before 28 February 2018.
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