The Big Tech Shift in Travel Isn't AGI — It's Real-Time Translation, Says Luxury Hotel Mogul

The Future of Travel: AI Translation and Its Impact

Kwon Ping Ho, a 72-year-old industry veteran with over three decades of experience in the hospitality sector, has seen the evolution of travel firsthand. As the founder of The Banyan Group, he launched his first resort on an abandoned tin mine in Phuket, Thailand, in 1994. Now, he believes that the next big transformation in travel will come not from artificial general intelligence (AGI), but from real-time translation software.

Ho recently shared his insights during an event in Singapore, emphasizing that while AGI remains a distant and theoretical concept, the immediate impact of AI lies in breaking down language barriers. He compared this potential shift to the rise of budget airlines in the 1990s and 2000s, which made travel more accessible and affordable for a broader audience.

Breaking Down Barriers

One of the biggest challenges in tourism is the language barrier. While group tours often rely on guides who speak the local language, travelers seeking deeper cultural experiences may find themselves struggling to communicate. Ho believes that real-time translation tools could change this dynamic entirely.

Imagine being in a small sake bar on Japan’s Noto Peninsula, engaging in a conversation with the chef without any language obstacles. This kind of seamless interaction, Ho argues, will "open up the boundaries of travel in a big, big way." It could empower travelers to explore remote destinations confidently, even if they don’t speak the local language.

He envisions a future where people can venture into the most isolated villages in Japan or Indonesia without feeling out of place. With instant translation, the world becomes more accessible, and the fear of miscommunication disappears.

The Role of AI in Hospitality

While Ho is optimistic about the potential of AI translation, he acknowledges that the technology is still in its early stages. AGI, which refers to AI capable of human-like thinking and reasoning, is still a distant goal. Experts are divided on when it might be achieved, with some predicting it within two years and others suggesting it could take decades.

In contrast, real-time translation software is already making waves. It offers a practical solution to one of the most persistent issues in global travel. By enabling instant communication, it enhances the traveler’s experience and allows for more authentic interactions with locals.

Industry Perspectives

Ho is not alone in recognizing the transformative power of AI in the hospitality sector. Brian Chesky, the co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, also sees potential in AI but emphasizes that it is still in its infancy. On a recent earnings call, he stated that AI is “not quite ready for prime time” and that the company plans to start by integrating it into customer service functions before expanding to other areas.

Chesky likened the current state of AI to the mid-to-late 1990s for the internet—early, evolving, and full of potential. He believes AI will have a profound impact on the travel industry, but it hasn’t yet fundamentally changed how major platforms operate.

Looking Ahead

As the hospitality industry continues to adapt to technological advancements, the focus remains on enhancing the traveler's experience. Real-time translation tools represent a significant step forward, offering a practical solution to a long-standing challenge. While AGI may remain a distant dream, the immediate benefits of AI-driven translation are already reshaping how people explore the world.

With continued innovation and investment, the future of travel looks more inclusive, connected, and accessible than ever before.