Travel Technology delivers real-time insights on booking platform innovations, AI-powered concierge services, mobile check-in solutions, VR destination tours, contactless payments and emerging digital travel trends to enhance every journey.
Japan is moving towards commercial autonomous taxi services, with Tokyo and Yokohama targeting launches in 2027. The projects could expand transport choices for residents and visitors while helping operators address driver shortages. In Tokyo, Waymo, Nihon Kotsu and GO aim to introduce fully driverless commercial taxis during 2027. The timetable remains subject to regulatory approval
A new EU travel industry coalition is urging policymakers to protect voluntary biometric travel while safeguarding passenger privacy and choice.
Oklahoma recorded the fastest growth in AI-related concern searches in a supplied state-level ranking, ahead of Connecticut and Alabama. The figures bring privacy, employment and technology confidence into focus for travel businesses considering artificial intelligence. Searches associated with AI concerns increased 64.4% in Oklahoma compared with the preceding 12-month period. Connecticut followed at 47.5%, while
Mindtrip has launched a Personal Travel Assistant designed to remember traveller preferences and apply them across different journeys. Announced on 30 September 2026, the service combines personalised research with AI agents that monitor relevant travel information beyond individual conversations. The San Francisco-based platform says its assistant can consider budgets, interests, travel companions and previous journeys
Seychelles is bringing digital assistance into holiday research through Koko, an AI travel assistant available on its destination website. The tool helps visitors explore accommodation, attractions and activities, offering another starting point for planning an island escape. Its published role centres on information and recommendations. Available documentation does not establish that Koko completes bookings, processes
Jamaica is placing artificial intelligence, workforce development and local business participation at the centre of its Tourism 3.0 agenda. Tourism Awareness Week 2026 brings these priorities together through school activities, a youth forum and a hospitality technology workshop. Running from 27 September to 3 October, the programme explores how digital tools can support tourism while
El Salvador and Kuwait are exploring stronger tourism cooperation following discussions during World Tourism Day celebrations in El Salvador. The talks focused on exchanging expertise, with digital innovation and artificial intelligence providing wider areas for potential collaboration. Kuwait’s diplomatic representative met Salvadoran tourism authorities to discuss closer sector relationships. Both sides expressed interest in sharing
Travellers planning journeys between Canada and Vermont should understand how US biometric identity checks work as federal border technology expands. Facial comparison raises practical questions about photographs, data retention and the inspection process for international visitors. However, the available verified information does not establish a new statewide rollout covering every Vermont crossing or highway corridor.
Singapore and the United Arab Emirates are advancing driverless airport transport, bringing autonomous vehicles into baggage handling and ground operations. Meanwhile, Amsterdam Schiphol is testing how self-driving buses can move employees around airport facilities. The projects address different operational needs, from transferring luggage between terminals to transporting staff through restricted areas. Together, they demonstrate how
Lyft has expanded into Europe through FREENOW, gaining a mobility network covering more than 180 cities across nine countries. The move follows its acquisition of the Hamburg-based platform, extending Lyft’s reach beyond its established North American operations. For travellers, the expansion centres on access to app-based taxis and other transport services in participating destinations. Airport
Magipic AI has secured a place among ten emerging technology companies selected for live demonstrations at IBTM World in Barcelona. The business events exhibition takes place at Fira Barcelona Gran Via from 17 to 19 November 2026. The British-founded platform will appear on the Future Stage during the dedicated AI for Events Demo Day. Its
Chuuk Lagoon in the Federated States of Micronesia is known for its Second World War wrecks, which draw divers to the Pacific destination. Digital interpretation could eventually help more people understand that underwater history, including visitors who cannot dive. That prospect remains an opportunity rather than an announced tourism product. As of 29 September 2026,
