Spending Precious Travel Time More Wisely: A Service Model that Provides Instant Travel Assistance Using Input from Locals

We propose a new service model that incorporates input from locals to provide instant travel assistance. No matter how well travelers plan, circumstances at their destination invariably force them to modify their plans, especially towards the end of a tour. However, it is difficult for travelers to get useful information or support. Accordingly, we propose a service model whereby on-site travelers can instantly access planning suggestions from locals. Travelers send a personalized plan request with conditions such as desired end point (destination and time), preferences (e.g. dining, historical spots, etc.), and group information. The service delivers this to participating locals, who create appropriate plans and register them with the service. We conducted a preliminary survey of the model in March, 2014 in Matsuyama, Japan. Despite an insufficient volume of data the questionnaire results support our approach. Locals provided useful information that was perceived as more credible than online search results.