Inside the research
An itinerary is not yet an operator shortlist
The study follows an illustrative couple planning their first Peru trip through one continuous conversation on each platform. In the itinerary answers to question two, neither platform named a tour operator, while hotels and restaurants received 28 combined mentions.
When operators enter the conversation
ChatGPT first named an operator at question six, when companies were explicitly requested. Google AI Mode introduced one at question four in a permit-related answer. Across the full conversations, the platforms named 16 unique operators with only one shared name.
Being cited is different from being recommended
The research codes business mentions, sources and advertisements separately. It identifies logistics, permits, guide credentials and clear booking information as useful subjects for further testing, without treating citations as endorsements or measured bookings.