Hooray's Google Search Game Plan
Jun 4, 2026
This week, Google unveiled the biggest shift to Search in more than 25 years. The headline: Search is moving beyond the classic “10 blue links” and turning into a conversational AI experience powered by Gemini. For hotels and resorts, this changes how travelers discover properties, compare options, and make booking decisions. In many ways, Google is becoming less of a search engine and more of a travel planning assistant. Read below to see how Hooray is keeping clients ahead.
1. Shift SEO Toward “AI Visibility”
Traditional keyword optimization alone is no longer enough. We are focusing on:
- FAQ-driven content
- Conversational search phrases
- Detailed destination guides
- “Best for” comparisons
- Highly structured content
- Schema markup
The goal is simple: become a source Google’s AI trusts and cites.
2. Double Down on First-Party Brand Demand
If AI reduces discovery traffic, strong branding matters even more. Marketing efforts should prioritize:
- Email capture via Hooray Catalyst
- Loyalty through email drip programs
- Social media content & engagement
- PR visibility
The strongest brands will rely less on Google referrals and more on direct audience relationships.
3. Invest in Rich Content Ecosystems
AI systems reward depth, context, and comprehensive information. Winning content may include:
- Local travel guides
- Seasonal itineraries
- Wellness content
- Family travel planning
- Dining recommendations
- Event calendars
- Insider concierge tips
This is especially important for luxury and experiential travel brands.
4. Monitor AI Search Results
Marketers should begin actively reviewing:
- How their properties appear in AI Overviews
- Whether Google cites OTAs over direct sites
- Which competitors appear in conversational search
- How reviews and amenities are being summarized
Hooray's AEO/GEO services include monitoring and reporting for AI search results.
A Quick Recap: Google is no longer just organizing information. It’s becoming a travel advisor, booking assistant, and recommendation engine. The hospitality brands that adapt early will be best positioned to capture visibility, influence traveler decisions, and win demand in the next era of AI-powered travel discovery.