Google Expands AI Tools That Turn Search into a Travel Agent

Google has new AI search tools designed to help save time and money on travel. The company is expanding access to its bargain-hunting search feature Flight Deals to more than 200 countries following Google Flight’s rollout in the U.S., Canada and India. Google has also turned AI Mode’s Canvas into a natural language itinerary planner: tell it the type of trip you’d like planned, including recommendations of interest, then select the option to “Create Canvas” and it will build a custom itinerary using real-time search data — from flights suggestions to hotels, complete with info from Google Maps, photos and reviews. Continue reading Google Expands AI Tools That Turn Search into a Travel Agent

Corporate Shift in Social Media Seeks Quality Over Quantity

Last year, Ritz-Carlton Hotel experienced a different kind of disappointment with advertising campaigns. The company wanted to promote its brand page on Facebook but quickly stopped the campaign. Unhappy executives saw too much gain from these ads. Now, rather than trying to grow its fan base, Ritz-Carlton has focused on analyzing its social media conversations to better grasp the likes and dislikes of its guests. The plan highlights a shift in corporate social media strategies. Continue reading Corporate Shift in Social Media Seeks Quality Over Quantity

Chinese Investor Envisions Movie Themed Real Estate Project

Wang Jianlin, chairman of Dalian Wanda Group and one of China’s wealthiest investors, announced his plans to build Qingdao Oriental Movie Metropolis. The project, estimated to cost from $4.9 billion to $8.2 billion, would include film studios, resort hotels, an indoor amusement park, movie theaters and a hospital. The metropolis is a sign of China’s efforts to become a world leader in the filmmaking industry. Last year, Dalian Wanda acquired AMC Entertainment for $2.6 billion. Continue reading Chinese Investor Envisions Movie Themed Real Estate Project