The 6 Google AI and Lens Features I'm Using to Plan My Summer Travel
Even though travel is genuinely one of my favorite things to do (and my favorite thing to spend money on), it can still be overwhelming to plan a dream trip. I have dozens and dozens of trips -- domestic and international -- under my belt and yet, I still find the process of planning and booking stressful.
According to a March 2025 survey, nearly half of all Americans (44%) plan to take a trip that requires a flight or hotel this summer. That means millions of Americans are gathering their passports, creating itineraries and gearing up to travel over the summer. If you're one of those people, you may be looking for help planning your trip.
That's where AI can help. You can use numerous other AI tools for travel planning, from a general-purpose chatbot like ChatGPT that can answer all of your travel-related queries to Booking.com's AI Trip Planner, which could be your AI-powered travel agent. Usually, though, I use Google tools. Specifically, there are key Google AI and Google Lens features that can assist you with all of your summer travel prep.
I've used these tools thoroughly over my many travels. Here is my go-to portfolio of Google apps and services that help me book and navigate my vacation.
For more travel advice, see the best time to shop for airline tickets and how to find cheap flights. I also explain how I use Google Maps for stress-free travel.
I Used Google's Gemini Gem to Plan My Trip I Used Google's Gemini Gem to Plan My Trip
Click to unmute
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Pause
Skip Backward
Skip Forward
Next playlist item
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
5:19
Loaded :
1.86%
0:00
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
5:19
Share
Fullscreen
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text
Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background
Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background
Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Close Modal Dialog
This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.
Close Modal Dialog
This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.
I Used Google's Gemini Gem to Plan My Trip
Let AI make custom travel itineraries
Google's AI Overviews in Search can make planning your next trip simpler. This tool was initially announced in March 2024, and I've been using it for more than a year now to generate personalized travel itineraries for the cities I'm visiting. For instance, I asked Google to plan a bookstore-focused tour of Edinburgh when I was there for three days in May.
Now the feature is expanding. Google said last week that it plans to broaden the capabilities of AI Overviews in Search so you can now make day-by-day itineraries for more than just cities but for distinct regions or entire countries. Just type in a quick command like "create an itinerary for England with a focus on history" or "create an itinerary for New Zealand with a focus on nature."
The AI draws on data from a range of sources, such as reviews, photos and business profiles submitted to Google by people over time. From there, you can export your itinerary to Gmail, Docs or Maps.
It's always important to remember not to take AI-generated answers at face value since it makes mistakes and even makes things up. You should diligently fact-check the information with expert sources in case the AI tool is hallucinating, pulling results from dubious sources or generating false information. If you need a case study, explore this piece by CNET's Katie Collins, who tested the accuracy of several AI tools regarding a city she knows inside and out.
Get travel inspiration from Gemini
Travel planning can be overwhelming, especially in a new city. When that happens, I turn to Gemini, Google's AI chatbot. Since the fall 2024 update to Google Maps, Gemini can suggest activities and dining options for your travels.
You can also ask it to find budget-friendly activities in a city or things to do in a country you're visiting when it's raining. Gemini uses Google reviews to curate personalized suggestions and shows them as pins on the map. This feature makes planning easier, helping you discover tailored options and reducing stress.
For comparison, I sometimes give other chatbots, like ChatGPT and Claude, the same travel-related queries and I get comparable answers. Did I mention that you should be sure to fact-check what an AI chatbot tells you?
Create an AI travel agent
You can also try Gemini's Gems feature, which lets you customize Gemini to create your own personal AI expert. Gems are customized versions of Gemini that help you tackle repetitive tasks or insight when researching. That means you can set up a travel planner Gem to help you choose a travel destination, find restaurants in a new city or what to pack for a given vacation.
Google is now offering Gems without a subscription. To use this feature, you must be signed in to Gemini Apps, and then you can create a custom Gem through the "Gems manager" on the desktop.
When I experimented with this feature, I created a "travel agent" Gem and wrote down instructions for the Gem's main objectives and capabilities and the style and tone of response I wanted from it.
Screenshot by Macy Meyer/CNET
I asked my Gem to create a 10-day itinerary for island-hopping around the Caribbean with the query, "I've always wanted to island-hop around the Caribbean islands. Please create an itinerary (for about 10 days), hitting the major islands and biggest attractions." My Gem responded by asking me what time of year I wish to travel, my budget and my ideal traveling pace. From my responses, Travel Agent Gem planned a 10-day trip around Puerto Rico, St. Lucia and Barbados, blending my interests in beaches, nature and history.
Screenshot by Macy Meyer/CNET
You can use Gem free to design your ultimate dream vacation, without booking an expensive travel agent. Even though these AI tools can be helpful, they can't replace the advice and insight of a real expert.
Allow AI to organize screenshots of travel ideas
If you're anything like me, your Photos app is filled with thousands of images from social media, Pinterest, TikTok and travel blogs. When travel planning, I like to screenshot photos of restaurants, museums, parks and other attractions I am just dying to visit. By the end, I have seemingly endless screenshots to sift through.
In March, Google announced it's rolling out a feature to the Maps app that can identify locations in your screenshots and save them to a list, making it easier to organize your travel plans. The feature scans screenshots for text mentioning specific places, displays those locations on the map and lets you review, save or share them.
This screenshot list feature is now available for iOS users in the US, with Android support coming soon.
Find the cheapest hotels available
I have no problem booking flights -- really. No matter what the sticker price is. But booking hotels? Whew, that's an expense that hurts. Especially because lodging is usually the biggest fee of any trip.
I use Google Flights every day to find the cheapest flights possible. (No, I literally check it daily and have email notifications set for 15-plus destinations when prices dip.) And now, Google is bringing that magic to booking hotels.
At google.com/hotels, you'll see a new option to track prices for your selected dates and destination. Just like on Google Flights, you can simply toggle the price-tracking option below the search filters and you'll receive an email notification if prices drop significantly for any hotels in your search results. You can even set filters, such as star rating or beach access, as well as the area you're viewing on the map.
I have notifications set for hotel prices in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in early May.
Screenshot by Macy Meyer/CNET
Choose an AI-driven tour guide
Easily translate menus or signs with Lens.
Google
OK, this isn't a new travel feature coming to Google but it's still a good one that can make travel much easier. One of my biggest concerns when traveling to a foreign county is the language barrier. The idea of becoming lost in a strange city and being unable to ask for help is my nightmare. Google's Lens feature can ease these fears.
Lens makes it easy to learn more about the city you're visiting, your surroundings and the local language. It can quickly and accurately translate street signs, maps and menus to help you navigate a foreign language. Just point your camera, tap the translate filter and watch the words translate on your screen.
Lens can decipher more than just text -- it can also quickly identify objects or buildings. Suppose you see a crowd of people hovering around a statue or a set of doors. In that case, you can simply point your camera and ask something along the lines of "What are these for?" and Lens will generate an AI Overview with information and links to additional resources.
AI Overviews in Lens (and Circle to Search) are now available in more than 200 countries and territories, and in more than 40 languages.
For more, see our traveler's prep checklist and how to improve your odds of not having your flight canceled or delayed.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
37 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Canada issues new warnings ahead of summer travel season
The 2025 summer travel season arrives under closer scrutiny than in previous years. Global Affairs Canada has updated a long list of advisories shaped by war, crime and environmental disruption. Countries in the Middle East are under strict warnings to limit or avoid travel, and South American destinations popular with Canadian visitors have been flagged for instability. Even the United States has entered more uncertain territory, though it is still carrying a green 'take normal safety precautions' rating. A national poll in May found a majority of Canadians no longer felt welcome south of the border, and more than half believed travel to the country was no longer safe. On June 7, Canada updated its advisory for the U.S. to reflect large-scale demonstrations in Los Angeles. Domestic travel is seeing a rebound, driven by rising caution abroad and a new dose of civic pride at home. Ottawa expects record hotel bookings ahead of Canada Day, with tourism officials crediting a drop in U.S. trips and growing appetite for homegrown destinations. Skyscanner data shows flight searches from Ottawa to Edmonton have risen 95 per cent since the start of the year, followed by Calgary and Winnipeg. Round-trip flights beginning and ending in Ottawa increased by 49 per cent, reflecting interest in regional tours or multi-leg vacations within Canada. The federal government is actively trying to keep travelers inside Canada's borders. Between June 20 and September 2, a Canada Strong Pass offers free or discounted admission to national parks, museums, galleries and VIA Rail trips. 'Canadians can enjoy free or discounted admission as they make Canada their travel destination this summer,' the program states, describing it as a way to 'celebrate what unites us … our shared experiences, natural wonders and cultural richness.' The view inside Canada may be bright, but international travel can be fraught with warnings. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Why: Canada updated its travel advisory for Mexico on June 19 in response to two serious safety risks. Hurricane Erick made landfall on the western coast of Oaxaca, bringing violent winds and heavy rainfall across southern Mexico. Authorities have warned of flash flooding, landslides and severe disruptions to essential services, including transportation, power, food and water supply, telecommunications, emergency response and medical care. In Sinaloa, escalating violence has led to clashes between rival armed groups near Culiacán and Mazatlán. Armed individuals have blocked major highways and attacked vehicles, prompting warnings about road safety and security conditions in the region. This satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Hurricane Erick making landfall in Mexico early Thursday. What to do: Avoid non-essential travel to the stretch of coast between Bahías de Huatulco and Acapulco, where Hurricane Erick has caused widespread disruption. Those already in southern Mexico should monitor local news and weather reports, prepare for possible outages and follow all instructions from emergency officials. In Sinaloa, travellers near Culiacán or Mazatlán should limit movement, stay off major highways and take extra precautions due to armed violence and security threats in the area. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Widespread shortages of food, bottled water, medication, fuel and even tap water have affected daily life in Cuba, leading to travel disruptions and stranding some tourists. Long waits at gas stations have triggered occasional conflict, and service interruptions have been reported at some resorts due to limited water or fuel access. As of July 1, 2025, all travelers will be required to present electronic visas upon arrival. Anyone entering Cuba via a third country must obtain this visa in advance. What to do: Travelers should arrive prepared, especially when visiting areas outside the main resort zones. Bringing supplies like toiletries, prescription medication and a basic emergency kit is advised. While resort areas like Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Playa Santa Lucia are considered lower-risk, fuel and water shortages may still affect transit and services. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Why: Sporadic demonstrations continue in Bangkok and other cities, while legal provisions give authorities broad powers to restrict movement, impose curfews, censor media and control public gatherings. Emergency measures may be enacted without warning. In the country's deep south, violent attacks by separatist insurgents have led to a blanket advisory to avoid all travel to the provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala. Martial law is in place across much of that region. Additional security risks exist along the borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, where occasional clashes, criminal activity and border closures have been reported. What to do: Avoid all travel to the southernmost provinces of Thailand due to the risk of violence. In other parts of the country, including Bangkok, remain alert to the potential for demonstrations or sudden security crackdowns. If visiting areas near the borders with Myanmar or Cambodia, stay informed about local developments, carry required documentation and only cross at designated points. Be prepared for delays or closures, and exercise increased caution in any region where military presence has been stepped up. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Hostilities between Israel and Iran have created serious security risks across the Middle East. Although Qatar remains relatively stable, regional tensions have led to reports of falling military debris in various locations and the potential for sudden flight disruptions, airspace restrictions, or border closures. The risk of escalation across neighbouring states is high, and Canada has warned it cannot guarantee the safety of Canadians abroad. What to do: Travelers in Qatar should monitor local and international media and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including shelter-in-place directives. Ensure all travel documents are current in case departure becomes necessary. Note: Canadians in nearby high-risk regions such as Iran, Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank are advised to stay close to bomb shelters or hardened structures and to follow civil defence warnings. Those wishing to leave are advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive updates on evacuation options. Take normal safety precautions with regional advisories; Why: As of June 12, a state of emergency was in place in Bocas del Toro Province following weeks of protests, while nationwide demonstrations since late April had caused recurring travel disruptions, including roadblocks and halted public transport. High levels of crime are reported in parts of Colón Province, San Miguelito and several Panama City districts. Travelers were also warned to avoid all travel to the Mosquito Gulf and the area south of Metetí in Darién Province due to violent crime, drug trafficking and human smuggling. What to do: Travelers should check routes in advance and be prepared for delays or closures due to protests. In affected areas, it is essential to carry a valid ID and to follow instructions from local authorities. In urban areas with high crime rates, maintain a high level of awareness, especially after dark. Demonstrations may occur without warning in additional regions. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: High levels of crime, social unrest and the risk of strikes and demonstrations can disrupt travel. A state of emergency in Callao Province and parts of Lima includes districts like San Juan de Lurigancho, Villa el Salvador and Comas. Enhanced security measures are in place, including ID checks and restrictions on motorcycle passengers. In several regions, including parts of Ayacucho, Huánuco, and Junín, criminal activity linked to drug trafficking and domestic terrorism has prompted a separate advisory against non-essential travel. What to do: In Lima and Callao, individuals should carry valid identification at all times and follow local laws, including restrictions tied to the current state of emergency. Travel plans should account for potential delays or closures due to protests or blockades. Travelers should avoid all non-essential travel to the regions flagged for organized crime and guerrilla activity, including the VRAEM corridor and border areas near Colombia and Ecuador. It is recommended to monitor local news closely and to remain alert in both urban and rural areas. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: As of May 2025, tensions between India and Pakistan were high following cross-border airstrikes, though a ceasefire had since been announced. Areas within 10 kilometres of the Pakistan border remain under a strict 'avoid all travel' advisory due to the risk of landmines and unexploded ordnance. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is also flagged for all travel avoidance due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. Anti-Canada sentiment in some regions has sparked protests, and consular services are temporarily unavailable in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. What to do: Non-essential travel should be avoided in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur due to insurgent activity. Canadians currently in India should exercise caution in public, avoid crowded places and protests and limit interactions with strangers, particularly in Delhi and surrounding areas. Those needing consular assistance should contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi or Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Authorities are maintaining heightened security measures in Germany due to concerns about terrorism, organized crime and irregular migration. Temporary border controls have been reinstated at all land-entry points and were expected to remain in place until at least Sept. 15, 2025. What to do: Those entering Germany from within the Schengen area should be prepared to show valid travel documents at border crossings. It is recommended to carry identification at all times. Exercise a high degree of caution; Why: Crime remains the main safety concern in Costa Rica, particularly in areas popular with tourists. Theft of passports and valuables is frequent, especially during high season. Pickpockets often work in teams, focusing on travelers in restaurants, bus terminals, hotel lobbies and national parks. Distraction techniques are common. Certain areas of San José, the Pacific coast, including Jacó and Manuel Antonio, and parts of the Caribbean coast, like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita see higher rates of reported incidents. What to do: Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and be cautious when withdrawing money or using public transit. Keep your passport on you, along with the Costa Rican entry stamp, but secure it when possible. Minimize signs of wealth, and don't carry more cash or valuables than necessary. Stay alert in crowds and in known hotspots and report any thefts immediately to local authorities. Take normal safety precautions; Why: Demonstrations in Los Angeles and other major cities have prompted an increased security presence and the possibility of sudden curfew orders. Local authorities may restrict movement with little notice, and gun violence can be a concern. The high rate of firearm possession and the legal right to carry weapons in many states contribute to the risk of being caught in a mass shooting, even if tourists are not typically targeted. What to do: At the border, be prepared for detailed screening by U.S. authorities. Entry is never guaranteed — even for travelers with valid documents — and border agents have wide discretion, including the authority to search devices and to detain individuals who are denied entry. Remain co-operative and ensure your documents are in order before travel. smisenheimer@ Our website is your destination for up-to-the-minute news, so make sure to bookmark our homepage and sign up for our newsletters so we can keep you informed. Canada Day tourism season looks strong as bookings climb in Ottawa Committee OK's airport-area housing project despite noise concerns
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Top Entertainment Options in Oahu, Honolulu, Waikiki: What Travelers Need to Know About Things To Do
Travelers Seek Safe, High-Quality Experiences — Here's How One Magic Show is Standing Out Among Honolulu's Best Things to Do 'One Clear Winner of the People's Choice: While Honolulu boasts four magic shows, one stands out with thousands of consistent 5-star reviews on both TripAdvisor and Google: The Magical Mystery Show!'— John Goodman HONOLULU, HI, UNITED STATES, June 22, 2025 / / -- With so many activities competing for attention in Waikiki — from boat cruises and luaus to live music and magic shows — visitors to Oahu often struggle to choose wisely. While glossy brochures and social media ads promise unforgettable evenings, the reality can sometimes fall short. Safety concerns, unexpected costs, or underwhelming experiences have prompted travelers to seek trusted reviews and verified recommendations. A closer look at popular entertainment options reveals both opportunities and red flags: Luaus: Know What You're Paying For Many Oahu luaus have faced rising costs, leading to reduced food quality and scaled-back offerings. Guests report that while some shows still impress, the dining experience may disappoint. Some, like MELE Luau, offer a lower-cost 'show-only' ticket option for budget-conscious visitors. Rock-A-Hula adds a rock-and-roll twist with an Elvis impersonator, though volume levels are high, and some walking is required. Always check parking costs, terrain, and mobility access before booking. Live Music: Blue Note Honolulu Remains a Trusted Option Located in the heart of Waikiki, Blue Note Honolulu continues to offer world-class music performances in a safe, upscale environment. With show-only or food-included ticket options, it remains a solid pick for couples and music lovers. Upcoming performers and tickets are available at Boat Cruises: Weather and Seasickness Are Real Considerations Sunset cruises can be breathtaking — but also unpredictable. Many operate in open ocean, not calm harbors, and seasickness is a common complaint. Rain or wind can lead to last-minute cancellations. Travelers are advised to book same-day, weather-dependent, when possible. While Ko Olina Ocean Adventures receives strong reviews, others like Star of Honolulu can exceed $200 per person. Magic & Comedy: The Magical Mystery Show! Takes Top Honors Among several Oahu magic shows priced under $99, one performance consistently outranks the rest. The Magical Mystery Show!, located at the Hilton Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, is currently rated the #1 Theater and Nightlife Experience in Honolulu on Tripadvisor. Housed in an ornate, Victorian-Hawaiian theatre with valet access, the show stars Shoot Ogawa, a Grand Champion of Magic internationally renowned for close-up illusions and engaging comedy. Audience members consistently describe the experience as 'astonishing,' 'interactive,' and 'unlike anything else on the island.' With adult tickets ranging from $69 to $89 and children's tickets starting at $49, it's a family-friendly favorite that combines world-class entertainment with luxury, comfort, and convenience. For official details and best pricing, visit Circus and Acrobat-Themed Events: Scale and Expectations While national-brand circus acts are present in Oahu, they are generally smaller in scope than their mainland counterparts. Some visitors are surprised by the modest scale and intimate setting. Full clown makeup may be unsettling for children. Check production size and visuals in advance to avoid surprises. Travel Tips for Safer Entertainment Choices in Waikiki: • Book day-of for outdoor events to avoid cancellations due to rain or wind. • Choose venues with valet or on-property access to minimize walking at night. • Bring rain ponchos and extra clothes for luaus without covered seating. • Read online reviews and check for consistent safety and quality feedback. Conclusion: Honolulu's Best Things to Do Include a Clear Standout While Oahu offers many entertainment choices, not all are created equal. For a safe, intimate, and world-class performance consistently praised by audiences worldwide, The Magical Mystery Show! continues to set the standard. Whether planning a romantic night out, a family activity, or a one-of-a-kind magical experience, visitors can count on this highly rated performance as one of the best things to do in Waikiki, Honolulu, and all of Oahu. For more information, visit or search 'Best Magic Show Oahu' online. John Goodman Hawaii Dining and Entertainment Magazine email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram Facebook Other Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Coody Unveils Official U.S. Website for Premium Inflatable Tents
06/21/2025, Boston, MA // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Coody, a trusted provider of premium inflatable tents from Korea, has launched its official U.S. website: The new platform provides American campers with a trusted source of quality air tents from Coody and helps them avoid counterfeit products. Sites such as and are not affiliated with the brand. For more than 12 years, Coody has redefined outdoor adventures with inflatable tents that are fast and easy to set up and built to last. Trusted worldwide, the Korean brand uses durable materials and a no-pole design for easy setup, so campers can spend less time pitching and more time enjoying the outdoors. 'U.S. campers shouldn't have to second-guess whether they're buying from the real Coody,' said a company spokesperson. 'That's why we built theCoody camping website—to make it easy for people to get the gear they trust, straight from us. No fake sellers, no confusion—just real tents made for real adventures.' Coody tents are built for quick, easy setup—no poles needed. With built-in air beams, they inflate in minutes. Waterproof, compact, and easy to use, these tents are made for campers, festival-goers, and off-grid explorers. Every model is designed for comfort and durability, ready to go where the adventure leads. A standout from the Coody inflatable tent collection is the Coody Inflatable Camping Tent 4 Person. It offers 8.2 by 6.9 feet of interior space, panoramic mesh windows for airflow, and a fast three-minute inflation time, ideal for small families or gear-heavy duos. With a UV-resistant shell and windproof build, it holds up in both sunny beaches and rugged campsites. Shoppers visiting the official Coody website in the USA and Canada can easily browse the full range of tents available and find the perfect tent for their needs. Aside from inflatable tents, offers canvas tents, glamping tents, and large tents that can accommodate three to 10 people. The site also features a range of camping accessories, including electric air pumps, tent stoves, air mattresses, carpets, and more. To make outfitting a campsite easier, Coody – official website in the USA and Canada offers tent bundles that pair high-quality inflatable tents with compatible accessories, each hand-selected by the brand for optimal performance and fit. These bundles come with a discount, making it easy and affordable for customers to gear up for outdoor adventures. For anyone seeking a premium inflatable air tent, Coody is the name to trust. Shop directly from its official U.S. store at About is the official U.S. distributor of the premium Korean outdoor brand known for its innovative, high-quality camping gear. Coody combines expert craftsmanship with eco-friendly materials to provide durable, easy-to-use inflatable and canvas tents. It caters to the needs of everyone, from couples seeking cozy retreats to groups needing spacious, reliable shelter, making it a trusted name for campers across the United States. ### Media Contact Address: 120 Riverway Apt. 12A, Boston, MA 02215 Phone: (551) 295-7817 Website: newsroom: Source published by Submit Press Release >> Coody Unveils Official U.S. Website for Premium Inflatable Tents
