Can AI really plan a better holiday?

When asked to create a five-night holiday for two people to Tbilisi from Dubai between October 15 and 20, 2026, within an Dh8,000 budget, a variety of AI tools were put to the test. ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and Perplexity all generated detailed plans, though each fell short in certain aspects.

ChatGPT was the most cautious, proposing a total cost of Dh7,130. It allocated Dh3,300 for flights, Dh1,500 for a centrally located four-star hotel, Dh1,350 for meals, and Dh630 for attractions. Its itinerary grouped key sites together effectively, with reservations made for a Monday visit to the Janashia Museum due to the closure of major Georgian National Museum venues on Mondays. However, ChatGPT's prices and dates were not confirmed, leaving its budget as theoretical.

Gemini focused heavily on excursions, estimating a total cost of Dh7,937. It included two day trips to Kazbegi and Gudauri, and another to Kakheti and Sighnaghi, alongside a visit to Narikala, Sameba Cathedral, the sulfur baths, Mtatsminda Park, and several well-known restaurants. However, Gemini's plan was vulnerable to delays and underestimations in meal costs, with Dh540 allocated for full-day excursions for two people.

Copilot gave the most confident estimate at around Dh7,600, with a Dh400 buffer. Its breakdown of costs included Dh3,000 for flights, Dh2,250 for accommodation, Dh100 for airport transfers, Dh600 for local transport, Dh1,350 for food, and Dh750 for attractions. However, Copilot acknowledged exceeding the budget and suggested minor adjustments such as one cheaper dinner or fewer taxi rides, which did not meet the original assignment's requirement for the plan to stay within the Dh8,000 limit.

Perplexity made the most extensive use of sources, citing fare sites, hotel platforms, transport guides, and local travel pages. It also noted that Narikala Fortress walls were under restoration, though still accessible. However, Perplexity made a significant calendar error, stating that October 15, 2026, was a Wednesday and October 20 a Monday, when they are actually Thursday and Tuesday, respectively.

This error could disrupt the itinerary due to museum closure days. Additionally, Perplexity's budget fluctuated throughout the response, becoming increasingly inaccurate as the plan was developed.