Agoda Celebrates Cultural Diversity with its Latest AI-Driven Travel Adventure

Agoda Embraces AI with New Generative Film Celebrating Global Travel

Digital travel platform Agoda has taken creativity to a new level with its latest generative AI (GenAI) short film.

The initiative aligns with the company’s mission to connect people across the globe through travel while promoting the beauty of cultural diversity and shared experiences.

What’s the Story Behind ‘Leo’s Magical Travel Adventures’?

The new short film, Leo’s Magical Travel Adventures, follows Leo, the cousin of Maya from Agoda’s previously successful AI-created book Maya and the Secret World of Agoda, on a journey across iconic destinations.

From the bustling streets of Guangzhou in China to Rotorua’s geothermal wonders in New Zealand, the floating markets of Ayutthaya in Thailand, and finally, the serene landscapes of Udaipur in India, Leo immerses himself in each destination’s unique culture and traditions.

Along the way, viewers are introduced to traditional practices like the Lion Dance, the Haka ritual, and local delicacies such as Guay Tiew Reua.

The journey culminates with the vibrant and colourful celebrations of the Holi Festival, offering audiences a rich, sensory experience of Asia Pacific's diverse cultures.

How Was the Animation Created?

The creation of Leo’s Magical Travel Adventures relied solely on generative AI technologies, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT 4.0 and Midjourney v6.1 being key tools in its production.

These AI systems were overseen by a dedicated team from Agoda's marketing, legal, and translation departments to ensure the project met the platform’s creative vision and cultural sensitivity.

According to Matteo Frigerio, Chief Marketing Officer at Agoda,

“AI is rewriting the rules of creativity. This AI project wants to inspire both kids and adults to dream big with travel, while celebrating Asia Pacific’s incredible diversity and the joy of exploration.”

Frigerio elaborated further,

“At Agoda, our purpose is to bridge the world through travel. Travel helps people enjoy, learn, and experience the amazing world we share. Using AI tools to tell this story was as exciting as it was meaningful.”

A Nod to Storytelling Through Generative AI

The Leo’s Magical Travel Adventures short film follows in the footsteps of Maya and the Secret World of Agoda, a book that also utilised AI tools to explore themes of exploration and connection.

This latest project builds upon that success by offering viewers a more immersive, visual narrative through AI-generated animation.

“AI technologies are changing how stories are told, and we’re eager to show how they can help share a message of discovery and cultural exchange,” said Frigerio.

With Asia Pacific's vibrant landscapes and traditions forming the backdrop, Leo’s Magical Travel Adventures aims to ignite curiosity among viewers of all ages.

Why Now? Exploring AI’s Role in Travel and Storytelling

Ahead of the busy holiday season, Agoda has focused on using AI tools to engage audiences while highlighting the transformative power of travel.

According to the company, generative AI enables them to connect viewers with both the excitement of exploration and the shared human experience.

The platform manages 12 petabytes of data monthly and conducts up to 1,000 experiments at any given time, all in pursuit of creating smoother travel experiences for customers.

AI forms a key part of that ambition, supporting innovation and engagement without compromising authenticity or emotion.

As Frigerio explained, the focus remains simple,

“Travel isn’t just about visiting new destinations. It’s about learning, connecting, and growing through experiences. We hope this story inspires every viewer to dream big and embrace exploration.”