June 2026

Industry Awareness Feature

AI Travel Influencers

Real-world influencers are people who share lived experiences and authentic stories. AI influencers are computer‑generated and designed to simulate human presence and engagement.

This feature explores how the two intersect in the travel industry.

Real-world influencers share moments from real life, and their posts feel personal because they come from lived experiences. They tell a story with spontaneity - a missed train, a surprising meal, or the joy of discovering a hidden street.

AI offers smoothness and control that match brand expectations. Brands value them because they are consistent and cost‑effective: no travel costs, no scheduling conflicts, no risk of going off message. Their stories are crafted to perfection, and sometimes that polish can feel too perfect.

The following is a scripted conversation bringing together four industry professionals to unpack the rise of AI travel influencers.

How real can they be? At first, they can look real and feel real. AI influencers mimic the layered feel of real-world influencers through backstories and carefully chosen visuals. But let us not confuse simulation with sensation. They do not live the stories they tell. Ajay Kamath (digital marketing company)

Can the average person tell the difference? It is difficult to tell the difference. The technology is advanced, with a realistic video playbook and natural language. When AI models reply to comments or weave in real events, the illusion deepens. Mohan Kumar (digital integration studio)

Can they save costs for creators? Yes, they can save costs. They reduce the need for travel, photo shoots, talent fees, and insurance. Studios can program one AI model to deliver content for different regions in many languages, avoiding travel costs or scheduling limits. For planners, it is efficient and easy to scale. Krithika Deva (model sourcing agency)

Will they replace real-world influencers? Not replace, but they will share space. AI cannot capture the surprise of a wrong turn in Goa or the smell of street food in Kerala. Real-world influencers bring vulnerability and lived chaos, which are essential for meaningful travel stories. The future is in partnerships: real-world influencers provide the soul; AI amplifies the story. Bina Narayan (travel writer)

Can AI influencers build emotional connections? Yes, though in a synthetic way. By speaking the viewer’s language, both literally and emotionally, they build rapport. It is similar to how cartoon characters can move us even though they are not real. The key lies in cultural awareness and interactive design. Ajay Kamath

What ethical questions do they raise? It’s always a question of transparency, manipulation, and authenticity, to start with. How can people tell the difference? If people bond with an AI model without knowing it is artificial, we enter difficult territory. And when these influencers start shaping travel habits, ethical guardrails must be part of the design. Mohan Kumar

Are brands rushing to partner with AI personas? They are, and it is easy to see why. AI influencers do not cancel campaigns or ask for allowances. But there is a risk that audiences will lose interest if the persona feels too programmed. Spontaneity and the element of surprise are still what keep people engaged. Krithika Deva

Will audiences push back for more ‘realness’? Sooner or later, yes. Because “make-believe” can sometimes look too good to be true. People start craving the imperfect and the unfiltered. We have seen this in fashion, food, and journalism. AI will keep evolving, but the hunger for authentic storytelling will not fade. Bina Narayan