AI predicts the future of UK holidays

Future gazing with AI

This year, we are proud to be celebrating a whopping 80 years of Hoseasons!

As we look back on how far we've come in this time, and indeed how the UK travel industry has grown and evolved as a whole, we can't help but wonder what the next 80 years has in store. What will UK holidays look like in the year 2100? How will advancements in technology and changes in human behaviour affect the way we travel? What do we expect a UK caravan park or a holiday cottage will look like in the future? Will they even exist?

Love it or loathe it, we are becoming more and more reliant on AI each day, looking to it for answers to help shape not only our present, but also our future. So, if AI is the future, then what does that look like? Well, we decided to put it to the test...

The experiment: Create AI-generated images depicting UK holidays in 80 years' time.

The process: We began by giving ChatGPT a very basic human prompt, asking it to create a more comprehensive AI prompt for Midjourney, which turned the text into images.

Human text > AI-generated text > AI-generated image

We then asked our CEO Henrik Kjellberg and our CCO Simon Altham to comment on the results, sharing their thoughts and insights into how accurate they think the AI-generated images are.

Ready to see what the future potentially holds for staycations? Join us as we delve into the innovative and imaginative world of AI-generated UK holidays in the year 2100...

Holiday lodges in the future

"How owners stop them being goldfish bowls remains to be seen"

Human prompt to ChatGPT: write me a prompt for Midjourney to show a very futuristic holiday lodge in the UK, for 80 years in the future.

AI-generated prompt by Chat GPT for Midjourney: futuristic lodge holiday building, (high-tech architecture), nestled in a lush UK forest, surrounded by dense trees, imagined for the year 2100, eco-friendly design, large glass windows, organic shapes, sustainable materials, ambient lighting, (breathtaking landscape), cool tones, serene atmosphere, (4K ultra-detailed), innovative and architectural masterpiece.

AI-generated images by Midjourney:

The AI prompt describes an "architectural masterpiece" and it's hard to disagree. These lodges are very cool - futuristic but still organic, almost becoming part of the forest. But are we missing the warmth of wood, and the cosiness of a small cabin? Again, the AI-generated text suggests that eco-friendly design and sustainable materials will be important in the year 2100, which seems accurate based on the growing demand for sustainable travel we're already seeing today.

Henrik: "Lodges of the future are set to elevate our understanding of cool, becoming almost treehouse-like in their appearance and prioritising an experience that integrates seamlessly with the natural environment. Glad to see the trees are still around in 80 years' time!"

Simon: "It’s safe to say future holidaymakers are all about optimising the view, but how owners stop them being goldfish bowls remains to be seen for multi-unit offerings. The challenge of providing great views and space for each unit whilst balancing privacy will be important, and perhaps this will be solved with manufacturing techniques such as mirrored glass or films on windows."

If you're looking for a luxury lodge in the forest you can book today, check out our Henlle Hall Woodland Lodges in Shropshire! You can also explore our full collection of holiday lodges in the UK.

Caravan holidays in the future

"I think the AI has underestimated some of the density in a caravan park"

Human prompt to ChatGPT: write me a prompt for Midjourney to show a very futuristic static caravan holiday in the UK, for 80 years in the future.

AI-generated prompt by Chat GPT for Midjourney: Visualise a futuristic static caravan holiday in the UK, set 80 years in the future. The scene should feature advanced technology and design elements, with sleek, aerodynamic caravans made from cutting-edge materials, possibly incorporating solar panels and eco-friendly features. The caravans should be situated in a picturesque countryside setting, with lush green hills, digital displays integrated into the landscape, and floating pathways. The atmosphere is serene and modern, with families enjoying outdoor activities, futuristic amenities, and perhaps even AI-driven drones assisting with tasks. The sky might feature hovercraft or other futuristic vehicles in the distance. The overall mood should be a blend of tranquillity and technological sophistication, capturing the essence of a futuristic yet peaceful holiday experience in the UK countryside.

AI-generated images by Midjourney:

The AI-generated prompt from ChatGPT was very descriptive about the environment and atmosphere, but a lot of this seems to have been lost in the text-to-image translation. The focus is all around the look and feel of the caravans themselves, and we aren't seeing much outside of this, when actually the surroundings and facilities are a huge part of why people book this type of holiday in the first place. The caravans look very "sleek" and "cutting-edge" as requested, and it's amazing to have the AI drones helping out, but they're definitely missing the charm and quaintness of a static caravan holiday in the UK as we know them today. Perhaps part of the confusion here is that we have many different types of caravan holidays in the UK - caravans at holiday parks with entertainment and facilities versus static caravans in the countryside versus driveable motorhomes. In this instance. Midjourney probably needs a more specific and advanced text prompt.

Henrik: "I think the AI has underestimated some of the density in a caravan park and we also seem to be missing the central facilities. Otherwise, I think the caravans look futuristic and bright."

Simon: "Same comment around privacy in a densely packed park. You don't want to be staring into your neighbours bedroom or kitchen area. Where is the outside space to enjoy? This is usually an important aspect of a caravan holiday, for example a private decked area for you to sit outside and enjoy the view. Again, perhaps mirrored glass or window film will solve the privacy issue. Will it go a step further and provide interior screens playing a choice of views from around the region?"

Check out some of our caravan holidays you can book right now. Or, if cutting-edge design is what you're after - take a look at our unique Conker glamping pod in the Welsh mountains.

Holiday parks in the future

"We should avoid future parks making the natural environment worse"

Human prompt to ChatGPT: write me a prompt for Midjourney, similar to the above, but for a UK holiday park at the Great British seaside, futuristic, 80 years in the future.

AI-generated prompt by Chat GPT for Midjourney: Imagine a futuristic UK holiday park at the Great British seaside, set 80 years in the future. The scene features ultra-modern beachfront chalets with sleek, sustainable designs, possibly with transparent walls and dynamic architecture that adapts to the environment. The beach is lined with advanced amenities, including solar-powered loungers, floating recreational platforms, and autonomous service robots. The coastline has a mixture of traditional elements, like a digitalized pier, with futuristic enhancements, such as holographic entertainment and eco-friendly transport pods gliding along the promenade. The sea is dotted with advanced watercraft, and in the distance, you can see wind turbines and energy-generating waves, blending innovation with the natural beauty of the seaside. The atmosphere is lively, with families enjoying the beach, futuristic arcades, and dining experiences that blend technology with classic British seaside charm.

AI-generated images by Midjourney:

To be honest, we were a little creeped out by these images at first - has anyone seen the film, "Alien"? The way they're built actually blocks out everything except the sea view, which is a lovely view, but AI isn't fully understanding that the fun of a holiday park is engaging with the onsite entertainment and facilities, and having fun with friends and family. There is mention of some pretty cool technology in the ChatGPT prompt, such as "solar-powered loungers", a "digitalised pier" and "holographic entertainment", although we can't see much of this in the image - perhaps this is showing the limitations of AI not being able to imagine something that doesn't already exist to some extent. The "autonomous service robots" are in full view however. These may seem strange to us now, but will robot waiters be completely normal in 80 years? Remember, there was a time not long ago when supermarket self-service checkouts caused a stir...

Henrik: "Not sure it is legal to have the caravans on the beach! Perhaps we need to teach AI some of the local laws that apply in the UK. Or maybe these laws will no longer exist in 80 years' time?"

Simon: "I think Henrik is right, we should avoid future parks making the natural environment worse. So the units need to be off the beach but still right on the coast. Privacy again looks like an issue if we assume that is still important 80 years from now? We are missing the central facilities and activities that make parks special - places for people (children) to meet and have fun."

If you want to stay as close to the sea as possible, check out Beach Cove Coastal Retreat in Devon, or browse our full collection of holiday parks near the beach - we have the biggest choice of holiday parks in the UK!

Dog-friendly holidays in the future

"Where are the humans?"

Human prompt to ChatGPT: write me a prompt for Midjourney to show a dog friendly UK holiday in the future, in 80 years time, futuristic.

AI-generated prompt by Chat GPT for Midjourney: Visualise a dog-friendly UK holiday 80 years in the future, where advanced technology and design cater to both humans and their pets. The setting is a lush countryside retreat with sleek, eco-friendly cottages and advanced pet-friendly features. The environment is filled with smart pet amenities, such as automated feeding stations, AI-driven play areas with interactive toys, and holographic dog parks that adapt to different breeds and activities. There are drone-assisted walks along scenic, digitally enhanced trails, with hovering pet carriers for when dogs tire. The landscape blends natural beauty with futuristic elements like floating bridges over serene rivers and digital pet tracking systems integrated into the environment. The overall atmosphere is one of relaxation, technology, and seamless integration between nature, humans, and their canine companions.

AI-generated images by Midjourney:

First things first, it's a relief to see AI thinks we'll still have dogs in 80 years' time! Unfortunately, AI doesn't seem to quite have the hang of drawing them, unless that's what dogs will look like in the future... What's a little disturbing is that the dogs seem to be on holiday on their own, without their owners. Instead, they seem to have robot drones awaiting the dogs' commands. Will the future see our dogs going on holiday and leaving us at home - or worse, in human kennels?! The AI prompt describes "automated feeding stations" which already exist, but other things like "drone-assisted walks" and "holographic dog parks" sound particularly intriguing. I wonder how the dogs will feel about this sort of play and exercise - can it replace the real thing? Is a game of fetch as fun without an actual tennis ball?

Simon: "This just shows dogs having a nice place to relax as opposed to them being truly dog friendly. What elements inside cater for the dog - where can the dog play outside and be safe? Do dog walkers/owners of the future have any tech that makes that easier i.e. remote walking aids or virtual leads?"

Henrik: "But, where are the humans?"

For luxury woodland lodges that welcomes dogs, take a look at Darwin Forest in the Peak District, or discover thousands of other dog-friendly holidays you can book right now.

Holiday cottages in the future

"AI seems focussed on technology integration rather than rural hideaways"

Human prompt to ChatGPT: write me a prompt for Midjourney to show a UK cottage holiday in the future, in 80 years time, futuristic.

AI-generated prompt by Chat GPT for Midjourney: Imagine a UK cottage holiday 80 years in the future, blending futuristic innovation with quaint, charming aesthetics. The scene features a picturesque countryside with small, beautifully preserved cottages that maintain traditional stone exteriors but incorporate advanced, eco-friendly materials and technology. The cottages have green, living roofs, solar panels subtly integrated into the design, and smart glass windows that change opacity with the touch of a button. The interiors are cosy yet high-tech, with self-adjusting fireplaces, holographic picture frames displaying serene landscapes, and automated systems for comfort. Surrounding the cottages are lush gardens with bioluminescent flowers, glowing pathways, and drone-delivered local produce. The overall mood is warm and inviting, with a perfect harmony between the old-world charm of a classic UK cottage and the sophisticated convenience of future technology.

AI-generated images by Midjourney:

It's nice to see that AI thinks cottage holidays will stay much as they are, with the UK's stone and thatched cottages being revamped with modern technology. Although, there is a touch of the Middle Earth about them! Will people still love "Lord of the Rings" in another 80 years? "Drone-delivered local produce" seems plausible, given it is already being tested and rolled out in the UK in 2024. Of all the futuristic AI-generated accommodation, these cottages definitely seem the closest to what we have today, and something we could easily see much sooner than the year 2100. Is the AI struggling to conjure up a futuristic cottage? Or is "futuristic cottage" too much of an oxymoron.

Henrik: "The cottage will get a futuristic facelift to its sustainability credentials. Solar panels and triple-glazing will become the norm in 80 years' time. Great for the environment!"

Simon: "I think in 80 years' time, homes that were built in the 90s will be quaint and 'period', so it’s interesting to see that AI thinks old-style properties will still have an enduring appeal. However, AI seems focused on technology integration rather than rural hideaways where guests feel removed from the world around them.”

Experience the old-world charm of one of our holiday cottages, with thousands to choose from. Or, for that "Lord of the Rings" feel, check out the unique Hobbiton-style hideaways at Luckington Burrows.

Hot tub holidays in the future

"This lacks imagination"

Human prompt to ChatGPT: write me a prompt for Midjourney to create an image of a UK holiday with a hot tub, futuristic, 80 years in the future.

AI-generated prompt by Chat GPT for Midjourney: Create a futuristic UK holiday scene 80 years in the future, centered around a luxurious hot tub experience. The setting is a serene countryside or coastal retreat, with sleek, modern accommodations that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The hot tub is an advanced design, possibly floating or integrated into a deck with transparent walls that offer stunning panoramic views. The tub is surrounded by smart lighting that changes color based on mood, and is equipped with AI-driven temperature controls, underwater massage jets, and holographic entertainment displays. The atmosphere is tranquil yet cutting-edge, with guests enjoying the hot tub under a starry sky, perhaps with futuristic elements like drones delivering refreshments or hovering fire pits for warmth. The overall mood combines relaxation, luxury, and the sophisticated technology of a future holiday experience.

AI-generated images by Midjourney:

It's a little like you'd see on the Starship Enterprise, but very luxe and cosy! Especially the floating hot tub. The AI prompt suggests "holographic entertainment displays", "drones delivering refreshments" and "hovering fire pits" which all sound pretty dreamy, although we are slightly underwhelmed by the results. Are we missing the imagination and creativity of a human here? No mention of hygiene or the water, but hopefully all hot tubs are self-cleaning in 80 years' time!

Henrik: "Hmm. Looks pretty much like the hot tubs of today. Where is the water slide?"

Simon: "Hot tubs don’t seem to have changed too much! But what we might expect is many practical advancements in the materials they are made of, how they are lit, how they clean themselves, and how they regulate water temperature in a more environmentally friendly way. We’d love to see the in-built entertainment options of the future! Imagine being able to put on a headset and be transported to a location of your choice making for a truly immersive hot tub experience."

If you like the sound of a floating hot tub lodge, then the good news is you don't have to wait 80 years - check out St Andrews Lakes in Kent or Clawford Lakes Resort & Spa in Devon, or dip into our full collection of hot tub holidays.

Final thoughts on the future of UK holidays

So, there we have it - the future of UK holidays according to AI. If these images are to be believed, then drones, robot waiters and virtual reality will all be the norm on a 2100 staycation, whether that's in a secluded cottage in the countryside or an action-packed holiday park on the coast. Aside from the high-tech aspects, the actual visual and design elements of the UK holiday accommodation the AI has generated don't appear to change too drastically. And perhaps they don't need to? Many of the best parts of a cottage stay, caravan holiday or lodge break have remained the same for decades and will continue to do so - providing a home away from home for guests, with the appropriate comfort, amenities and entertainment to suit their needs.

Whether the specifics in the images are correct or not remains to be seen, but what we do know is that AI has the potential to create an incredibly advanced and personalised experience for UK holidaymakers in the years to come.

Simon touched on this in a recent interview about the future of the UK travel industry, in which he commented:

"Now, guests want certainty and want to know exactly what they are booking. They recognise that time away is precious and want it to be just right, which is why we’re seeing demand for more pictures, video content and reviews. I guess if we took that a step further, you can imagine a world of immersive experiences where you can be virtually transported to your desired destination/accommodation to ensure it meets your exact needs. The possibilities are endless, but evolving technology will continue to be the foundation for future holiday browsing and booking."

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