Instinct, founded by 23-year-old Noah Shinn, is a text-message-based AI agent that can book and rebook travel from a text thread. Available on an invite-only basis, it works via SMS and WhatsApp and has caught Silicon Valley VC attention, demonstrating AI's potential to simplify travel booking.
London-based startup iWander has launched a consumer iOS app that uses generative AI to create personalized narrated walking tours in about 30 seconds, drawing on a database of 6.5 million places. Previously operating as a B2B2C service for partners like City Sightseeing, the company now goes direct-to-consumer. Co-founder Marius Nigond says the app can book attractions and restaurants, with a long-term vision to compete with OTAs but using an experience-first approach.
PhocusWire released its 2026 list of top travel tech investors, based on activity from May 2025 to May 2026. Investors now prioritize profitability and AI-native startups over the 'travel planning is hard' narrative. Travel tech funding dipped below $5 billion in 2025, but reached $1.7 billion by May 2026. Thayer tops the list for the third year, with corporate venture arms like United Airlines Ventures active.
AI-powered travel companion iWander has launched an iOS app offering character-led narrated walking tours across more than 1000 cities, including personas like a history buff and counter culture, plus curated tours in 25 destinations and in-app booking for attractions, restaurants, and events. Founded in 2023 as a B2B2C service, iWander is now pivoting to consumer. CEO Marius Nigond says rapid tech development necessitates its own platform for fast iteration. The company also helped City Sightseeing develop an AI app and uses data to optimize route design.