Three Reasons Why AI is for Everybody

“AI won’t replace you, but someone using AI will.” It’s been a common refrain since generative AI usage has taken off over the last couple of years, with the advent of Gen AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, Anthropic, Perplexity and more. 

It’s also a phrase Tom McGarry lives by. Recently at Arival | Activate Edinburgh, the then-Head of Business Development at Holiday Extras (he was recently promoted to Associate Director of Business Development) gave an inspiring and encouraging keynote about getting comfortable using AI, and some of the opportunities AI presents for operators of tours, activities and attractions who are able to overcome their hesitations about getting on board with the emerging technology.

The bottom line: “AI can be scary, it can be hard, it can be difficult to get started.” But it really is for everybody. Here are McGarry’s three reasons why: 

1. AI is Your Digital Twin

Getting comfortable with using AI tools can save you a lot of time and energy, McGarry explains. Referring to his AI tools as his “digital twin,” McGarry demonstrates how he’s able to put AI to work and earn back time for himself to focus on other areas of his business.

2. Tech is Easy, Humans are Hard

Tech may move quickly but humans move at different speeds, especially in terms of tech adoption. And that’s okay, McGarry says. The important thing is finding ways to make sure the people in your company are encouraged along in the process — he explains how Holiday Extras implemented a “no human left behind” policy as they looked to incorporate AI into their workflow.

3. Knowledge is Power

“AI can democratize a lot of things, and it actually gives smaller companies an unfair advantage.” McGarry explains how AI can level the creative playing field for smaller companies with less resources, and demonstrates with an advertisement his team created using AI tools in three hours for £8 (about $10 USD).

Learn More about AI with Arival

The implementation of AI in your business doesn’t have to be daunting. Start small by exploring tools that can optimize your operations, such as chatbots for customer service or AI tools for creating engaging marketing content. Check out Arival’s Guide to AI in Experiences, explore ways experience businesses are using AI today, and learn how to optimize your experience product listings for generative AI search. 

Also, join us in person at the next Arival event, Arival 360 | Valencia, where we’ll have several key sessions on AI, including an overview of AI applications for operators, and in-depth workshops where operators will get to sit down with travel industry experts and learn how to use these tools.