Matador Network research reveals LGBTQ+ travellers lead way in adopting AI for trip planning

Nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ travelers may use artificial intelligence to plan and book travel this summer

According to a recent survey conducted by leading travel publisher Matador Network, nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ travelers (62.1%) are open to using AI to plan or assist with their summer travel this year. 

This significant trend highlighted the growing reliance on advanced technology within the LGBTQ+ community for enhancing travel experiences. 

Matador Network spearheaded this movement with the creation of GuideGeek in 2023, which is a free AI travel genius designed to streamline and enrich trip planning for travelers worldwide.

The survey also found that LGBTQ+ travelers are nearly 16% more likely to have already used AI for travel and are 25% more likely to have planned to use AI for summer travel. 

The LGBTQ+ travel market is worth over $200 billion globally with the LGBTQ+ community in the U.S. using approximately 10% of its purchasing power to travel. GuideGeek is optimal for finding niche, inclusive and off-the-beaten-path locations and for those seeking to create instantaneous customized itineraries.

“I used GuideGeek to help me curate a last-minute, 10-day road trip from British Columbia to Palmer, Alaska,” said Tori Jackson of New York. 

“The Alaska Highway is a long stretch of road with little to no service. To plan ahead, we used AI to find gas stations with the distance apart so we would never run out of gas.”

Travelers can access GuideGeek through WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook Messenger where they message the AI like they would a friend. 

The travel assistant then offers instant, customized travel recommendations to travelers, from full itineraries to quick tips, all tailored to the user’s specific needs and preferences.

GuideGeek has answered over four million questions for travellers in dozens of languages since launching in 2023. 

In addition to using GuideGeek to plan travel, about a quarter of GuideGeek users are getting instant recommendations while already at their destination.

"GuideGeek is the perfect resource for every traveler, no matter where they're headed or what they plan to do," said Ross Borden, CEO of Matador Network. 

"Travelers crave adventure, new places, and unique experiences, but they also want to feel safe along their journey and welcomed at their destination. 

"With thousands of Pride Month events happening across the country throughout the month of June, whether you're planning a regional road trip to catch as many festivities as possible or focusing on one city for a week or a weekend, GuideGeek is your personal travel agent, before and during your trip."