Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1542608
highlights Canada's network of knowledge-rich cities. Ottawa's strong cluster of national associations, government departments, research institutions, and sector leaders makes it especially attractive for cross-border organizations seek- ing easy access, a safe and inclusive environment, and a glob- ally connected capital city experience. "Ottawa embodies the strengths that make Canada such a compelling partner for association leaders: a con- nected capital city, deep sector expertise, and a collabora- tive ecosystem that accelerates ideas into action," said Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events, Destination Canada. "By hosting the Executive Leadership Forum here, we are not only showcasing an exceptional meetings destination, but we are also inviting association executives to tap into Canada's networks, tal- ent, and insights to help shape what comes next for their organizations." The Ottawa edition continues a successful Canadian series for the Executive Leadership Forum, following the 2025 program in Montréal. Registration and full program details for the 2026 Executive Leadership Forum will be available on the ASAE website in due course. INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS AND WOMEN LEAD IN USING AI FOR TRIP PLANNING Survey Finds Strong Satisfaction, Growing Adoption of AI Among Travelers Artificial intelligence is transforming the way people plan trips — especially among international travelers and women — according to the world's most experienced travelers responding to the Global Rescue Fall 2025 Traveler Safety and Sentiment Survey. More than one in five travelers (22%) reported using AI tools to plan a trip, but adoption is notably higher among non-US respondents (30%) and women (24%) compared to US travelers (20%) and men (22%). Most respondents (73%) have not yet used AI for travel plan- ning, underscoring that while AI use is growing, it's still emerging among the broader traveling public. "The data suggest that international travelers are lead- ing the way in adopting AI for travel, using it to overcome logistical, linguistic and informational barriers," said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the US Department of Commerce. "AI is proving its value for travelers who want smarter, faster and more personal- ized trip planning." Among travelers who used AI, the most common applications were itinerary planning (73%) and general research (67%), showing how travelers rely on AI for convenience and inspira- tion. Other frequent uses included flights (35%), restaurants (36%) and lodging (30%). International travelers used AI more frequently than Americans for nearly every purpose, particularly for flights (45%), visa infor- mation (26%) and transla- tion (21%) — areas that help simplify cross-border travel. US respondents, by con- trast, used AI more often for lodging (32%) and restau- rants (37%), focusing on comfort and experiences once destinations were chosen. Gender differences also emerged. Women use AI slightly more often for trip planning and apply it across a broader range of purposes, including itineraries (74%), restaurants (36%) and general research (68%). Men, however, are marginally more likely to report finding AI tools useful and to say they'll use them again. When asked about usefulness, nearly 80% of all travel- ers rated AI tools as either very or mostly useful. Satisfaction was consistent across regions and genders — 89% of women and 86% of men found AI at least "a little useful," with minimal reports of poor performance. Looking ahead, enthusiasm is high. More than nine in ten travelers (93%) said they are likely or very likely to use AI for their next trip — with men (93%) and women (95%) showing near-universal interest. "These findings show that travelers who have tried AI overwhelmingly see its benefits," Richards said. "As tools become more capable and trusted, AI will likely become a standard part of trip planning worldwide." For more information, contact: Bill McIntyre | Email: bmcintyre@globalrescue.com | Phone: +1 202.560.1195 B M & T ••• January/February 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 7 IN THE NEWS Rideau Canal Pathway photo credit: Ottawa Tourism