The other day I flamed out doing Wordle. The NYT analysis bot told me "goals" was unlikely to be the answer. So I asked Bard (Google's AI) why that was so. It told me:
1. Wordle answers are five letters. "Goals" is six.
2. Wordle doesn't use double letters, and "goals" has two "o"s.
3. Wordle uses common words, and "goals" is uncommon.
4. Wordle uses interesting words, and "goals" is too common to be interesting.
Those Chat GPT suggestions seem so vague! And to include non pet friendly accommodation assuming it welcomes dogs is wrong on many levels, the lack of accuracy is astounding! And that blog post draft is so wishy washy haha! Anyway, your road trip plan sounds fantastic.
One worry I have with using AI to determine activities that require some form of financial transaction is that they will be prompted by the highest bidder on the other side of the AI. I realize my view of the world is already biased through the news sources I use promoted by Google News. It's only logical that my AI pal is on the take as well.
The problem with AI planning a trip is it doesn’t know you personally. I have started a travel vlog on YouTube and a podcast that will teach people of a certain age and single travelers how to best dip into those savings and take the adventure of a lifetime before it’s too late. AI doesn’t know YOU only what it was taught to spit out.
Here's what Chat GPT told me when I was planning my scouting trip last thanksgiving:
Your itinerary sounds exciting, and it's great that you're considering Portugal as a potential retirement destination. Here are some recommendations for each of the places you'll be visiting:
Setubal (November 22-25):
Visit Troia Peninsula: Take a ferry to Troia Peninsula for its beautiful beaches and the Roman ruins.
Explore Arrábida Natural Park: Enjoy the stunning landscapes, cliffs, and beaches in this protected area.
Savor Local Cuisine: Try the fresh seafood, especially the famous fried cuttlefish.
Lisbon (November 25-28):
Historic Districts: Explore Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado for their historic charm and vibrant atmosphere.
Belém District: Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and taste the famous Pastel de Nata at Pastéis de Belém.
Tram 28: Take a ride on Tram 28 for a scenic tour of Lisbon's major attractions.
Nightlife in Bairro Alto: Experience Lisbon's lively nightlife in Bairro Alto.
Porto (December 1):
Ribeira District: Wander through the charming streets of Ribeira along the Douro River.
Livraria Lello: Visit one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Try Francesinha: Taste the local specialty, Francesinha, a hearty sandwich with cured meats and spicy sauce.
Coimbra (December 3):
University of Coimbra: Explore the historic university and its beautiful library.
Santa Clara-a-Velha: Visit the archaeological site of the old convent on the Mondego River.
Botanical Garden: Relax in the peaceful Botanical Garden.
Vila Real de Santo António (December 5-8):
Praia da Manta Rota: Enjoy the pristine beaches in the area.
Castro Marim: Explore the historic town and its castle.
Guadiana River Cruise: Take a boat trip on the Guadiana River, which forms the border with Spain.
General Tips:
Public Transit: Portugal has an efficient public transportation system. Use trains and buses to travel between cities.
Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your experience.
Local Markets: Visit local markets to experience the vibrant culture and try fresh produce.
Weather: November can be cool, especially in the evenings. Bring layers and check the weather forecast.
Local Experiences: Engage with locals, ask for recommendations, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
This itinerary allows you to explore a variety of landscapes, historical sites, and local cuisines, giving you a well-rounded experience of Portugal. Enjoy your trip!
Traveling once a month is amazing. Just got back from Nor Portugal and Terceira island visit and the travel bug has caught me - again. Bangkok in November perhaps 🤔 AI travel planning is useful however I agree and also find human experience is just as valuable-weird that I end up always defending “people” over tech when I am in tech and am not a people person….🤪
We are planning a long trip too and wow--Chat GPT is WAY faster than me! I agree with you-not everything can be trusted or considered the best route. It recommended some backtracking on the trip, which could be avoided by going and different direction and stopping along the way for some more sights. But, good info and a good start to the itinerary! Thanks Nancy!
We’ve used AI for assistance on grammatical rules for Portuguese, researching our pooch’s med situation and various and sundry things. It is helpful but not “all knowing”.
While AI can be useful in certain circumstances, I worry about it being used for nefarious purposes. Trump has already used it to attack Biden. BTW, I am trying to get a Portuguese driver's license. I am from California, and now I am being told by the Portuguese embassy in San Francisco that I need an official driver's record that is signed by the state attorney general! Go figure. I have sent my request to the California DMV and I am waiting for my record to be mailed to me here in Portugal. Did you have to do this when you applied for a Portuguese drivers license? Obrigada in advance.
There's an app called Wanderlog where you can use the built-in AI to create itineraries, select sights to see, pick restaurants, optimize driving routes, etc. I used it on our recent trip to Iceland and it was great. You can also upload your flight and hotel reservations into it and have everything in one place. Very cool.
The other day I flamed out doing Wordle. The NYT analysis bot told me "goals" was unlikely to be the answer. So I asked Bard (Google's AI) why that was so. It told me:
1. Wordle answers are five letters. "Goals" is six.
2. Wordle doesn't use double letters, and "goals" has two "o"s.
3. Wordle uses common words, and "goals" is uncommon.
4. Wordle uses interesting words, and "goals" is too common to be interesting.
So I'm still a bit skeptical.
Those Chat GPT suggestions seem so vague! And to include non pet friendly accommodation assuming it welcomes dogs is wrong on many levels, the lack of accuracy is astounding! And that blog post draft is so wishy washy haha! Anyway, your road trip plan sounds fantastic.
One worry I have with using AI to determine activities that require some form of financial transaction is that they will be prompted by the highest bidder on the other side of the AI. I realize my view of the world is already biased through the news sources I use promoted by Google News. It's only logical that my AI pal is on the take as well.
The problem with AI planning a trip is it doesn’t know you personally. I have started a travel vlog on YouTube and a podcast that will teach people of a certain age and single travelers how to best dip into those savings and take the adventure of a lifetime before it’s too late. AI doesn’t know YOU only what it was taught to spit out.
What fun! Great tip
Here's what Chat GPT told me when I was planning my scouting trip last thanksgiving:
Your itinerary sounds exciting, and it's great that you're considering Portugal as a potential retirement destination. Here are some recommendations for each of the places you'll be visiting:
Setubal (November 22-25):
Visit Troia Peninsula: Take a ferry to Troia Peninsula for its beautiful beaches and the Roman ruins.
Explore Arrábida Natural Park: Enjoy the stunning landscapes, cliffs, and beaches in this protected area.
Savor Local Cuisine: Try the fresh seafood, especially the famous fried cuttlefish.
Lisbon (November 25-28):
Historic Districts: Explore Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado for their historic charm and vibrant atmosphere.
Belém District: Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and taste the famous Pastel de Nata at Pastéis de Belém.
Tram 28: Take a ride on Tram 28 for a scenic tour of Lisbon's major attractions.
Nightlife in Bairro Alto: Experience Lisbon's lively nightlife in Bairro Alto.
Porto (December 1):
Ribeira District: Wander through the charming streets of Ribeira along the Douro River.
Livraria Lello: Visit one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Try Francesinha: Taste the local specialty, Francesinha, a hearty sandwich with cured meats and spicy sauce.
Coimbra (December 3):
University of Coimbra: Explore the historic university and its beautiful library.
Santa Clara-a-Velha: Visit the archaeological site of the old convent on the Mondego River.
Botanical Garden: Relax in the peaceful Botanical Garden.
Vila Real de Santo António (December 5-8):
Praia da Manta Rota: Enjoy the pristine beaches in the area.
Castro Marim: Explore the historic town and its castle.
Guadiana River Cruise: Take a boat trip on the Guadiana River, which forms the border with Spain.
General Tips:
Public Transit: Portugal has an efficient public transportation system. Use trains and buses to travel between cities.
Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your experience.
Local Markets: Visit local markets to experience the vibrant culture and try fresh produce.
Weather: November can be cool, especially in the evenings. Bring layers and check the weather forecast.
Local Experiences: Engage with locals, ask for recommendations, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
This itinerary allows you to explore a variety of landscapes, historical sites, and local cuisines, giving you a well-rounded experience of Portugal. Enjoy your trip!
Traveling once a month is amazing. Just got back from Nor Portugal and Terceira island visit and the travel bug has caught me - again. Bangkok in November perhaps 🤔 AI travel planning is useful however I agree and also find human experience is just as valuable-weird that I end up always defending “people” over tech when I am in tech and am not a people person….🤪
"Denise is not a fan of my newfound interest." roflmao, good one!
We are planning a long trip too and wow--Chat GPT is WAY faster than me! I agree with you-not everything can be trusted or considered the best route. It recommended some backtracking on the trip, which could be avoided by going and different direction and stopping along the way for some more sights. But, good info and a good start to the itinerary! Thanks Nancy!
We’ve used AI for assistance on grammatical rules for Portuguese, researching our pooch’s med situation and various and sundry things. It is helpful but not “all knowing”.
Great post Nanc! Look forward to your experiences in Denmark.
I'm half Danish and have spent a lot of time there. I look forward to reading your impressions of Denmark ☺️
While AI can be useful in certain circumstances, I worry about it being used for nefarious purposes. Trump has already used it to attack Biden. BTW, I am trying to get a Portuguese driver's license. I am from California, and now I am being told by the Portuguese embassy in San Francisco that I need an official driver's record that is signed by the state attorney general! Go figure. I have sent my request to the California DMV and I am waiting for my record to be mailed to me here in Portugal. Did you have to do this when you applied for a Portuguese drivers license? Obrigada in advance.
There's an app called Wanderlog where you can use the built-in AI to create itineraries, select sights to see, pick restaurants, optimize driving routes, etc. I used it on our recent trip to Iceland and it was great. You can also upload your flight and hotel reservations into it and have everything in one place. Very cool.
ROBOT 🤖
🤖