Generate an image in 1 minute? Write an advertisement in 5 seconds? Not long ago, these timeframes seemed impossible for such tasks. Nowadays, AI tools are the most commonly used. People implement them everywhere — from translating kettle instructions to tackling complex job assignments. And, to catch the wave, you have to learn how to work with them. But the big question is: are they difficult to use, or is it a piece of cake?
A few days ago, while enjoying iced coffee, my friend asked, “What should I visit in Hungary?” I looked at her, surprised, and replied, “Ask Google.” She swirled her coffee, the ice cubes clinking, and gazed at me like the adorable cat from Shrek. Having lived in Hungary for nearly a year, she wanted my personal recommendations.
So, here I am, looking suspiciously at AI tools for travel bloggers and writers to create a Hungary travel guide for her.
Here is what I will do:
- Generate an AI image for the guide
- Write content using AI content tools
Bonus: Design the guide 🙂
AI tools I’ll test:
- Canva AI image generator
- Picsart AI image generator
- Adobe Firefly AI image generator
- ChatGPT
- Google Gemini
Well, let’s pull socks up and see how to create a travel guide with AI tools.
How to generate an AI image for the guide?
AI image generators take a text prompt and transform it into a matching image, giving you a magic wand to create any image you want — from “a cat in space” to “a painting in the style of Salvador Dalí.” The only limits are your imagination and the generator’s policies against producing offensive content.
Canva
In my opinion, Canva has reached the same level of recognition as Apple or Google; everyone knows this tool. Recently, they released a large video announcing the latest features, and it looks really impressive. With many free options, Canva has truly become a handy tool for a lot of people. Who hasn’t used it to create a travel photo album or a work presentation? That’s why I decided to start with the Canva AI image generator.
For all tools I’ll use the same text prompt: “Hungary travel guide”.
Ready, steady, go!
Result:
Well, sometimes pictures speak louder than words… First of all, what language is this? Secondly, why does the street look like Venice?
Picsart
I used this tool a long time ago for editing photos, and it has evolved significantly since then. With its free option for creating AI images, let’s try out the Picsart AI image generator.
Result:
Budapest’s Parliament looks like a Salvador Dalí painting: strange structures and wry lines.
Adobe Firefly
Honestly, I’ve never worked with Adobe products except for PDFs occasionally. They’ve always seemed to me like something vast, complex, and not very user-friendly. I’d say more: I didn’t even know they had this particular tool. However, I decided to register for free and give it a chance.
Result:
And, it definitely surprised me! It’s much better than previous versions, even though I used the same prompt. The third and fourth pictures aren’t as good, but the first two look fine. Despite having that “AI look,” they’re still better than previous results.
How to write content with the help of AI content tools?
If you type in Google search “AI tools for content creation”, you’d see numerous results, offering similar features. This is largely because 95% of these tools utilize the same large language models (LLMs) as their backend. Simply saying, they use the same training data to respond to your text prompts.
While this may seem overwhelming, for users, it’s as simple as typing in what you need. Whether it’s generating marketing materials or brainstorming birthday ideas, just input your request into the chat. Let’s try to generate a travel guide and then add a personal touch to it.
ChatGPT
It seems that this tool doesn’t need to be introduced. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t heard about ChatGPT. So, we start!
Result:
Travel Guide to Hungary
Welcome to Hungary!
Hungary, a gem in the heart of Europe, is a country where history meets modernity, nature intertwines with vibrant city life, and traditions are celebrated with enthusiasm. This guide will help you navigate through Hungary’s must-see attractions, rich cultural heritage, and delightful culinary experiences.
1. Budapest: The Pearl of the Danube
Buda Castle: Perched on the Castle Hill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. Explore the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum within the castle complex.
Parliament Building: An architectural masterpiece, the Parliament is a symbol of Hungary. Take a guided tour to see the grand interiors and the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Thermal Baths: Budapest is famous for its thermal baths. Don’t miss the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest spa complexes in Europe, and the historic Gellért Baths.
Andrássy Avenue: Stroll down this elegant boulevard, home to the State Opera House, luxury boutiques, and beautiful 19th-century mansions.
2. Historical and Cultural Sites
Eger: Known for its baroque architecture, Eger is famous for its castle, the Basilica, and the Valley of the Beautiful Women, where you can sample the region’s renowned red wines.
Hollókő: A picturesque village and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hollókő is a living museum of Hungarian rural life with its preserved traditional houses and cultural events.
Pécs: This city in southern Hungary boasts a rich cultural heritage with its early Christian necropolis, the Pécs Cathedral, and the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter.
3. Natural Wonders
Lake Balaton: The largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Balaton is a popular summer destination. Enjoy water sports, sunbathing on the beaches, and exploring charming towns like Balatonfüred and Tihany.
Hortobágy National Park: Experience the unique landscape of the Hungarian Plain, known as the Puszta. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to traditional Hungarian shepherd culture and diverse wildlife.
Aggtelek National Park: Famous for the Baradla Cave, part of the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the extensive cave system and enjoy the park’s hiking trails.
4. Culinary Delights
Goulash: A must-try traditional Hungarian dish, this hearty soup is made with beef, paprika, and vegetables.
Lángos: A popular street food, lángos is deep-fried dough typically topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic.
Tokaji Wine: Known as the “Wine of Kings,” Tokaji is a world-famous dessert wine produced in the Tokaj region.
Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács): A sweet treat made from dough wrapped around a spit, baked, and coated with sugar and toppings like cinnamon or walnuts.
Travel Tips:
- Language: Hungarian (Magyar) is the official language, but English and German are widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller establishments.
- Public Transport: Hungary has an efficient public transport system. In Budapest, you can use trams, buses, and the metro. For intercity travel, trains and buses are reliable options.
- Safety: Hungary is generally safe for tourists, but always stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
Conclusion
Hungary’s blend of historical grandeur, natural beauty, and vibrant culture makes it an irresistible destination. Whether you’re soaking in a thermal bath, exploring medieval castles, or savoring local delicacies, you’ll find countless reasons to fall in love with this enchanting country. Enjoy your journey through Hungary!
Wow, that’s almost a ready travel guide!😃 Adding my personal touch will make it even better, with stories about hidden gems like Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar (a place you’ll either love or hate — no in-between) or the Cave Thermal Bath in Miskolc. Despite that, it’s already an informative and engaging guide.
Google Gemini
Google Gemini it’s an AI tool released by Google. Its interface looks similar to ChatGPT and appears to offer the same functionality. Let’s explore what it can do.
Unveiling Hungary: A Land of Thermal Baths, Vibrant Cities, and Rich History
Hungary, a nation steeped in history and paprika-infused cuisine, beckons travelers with its captivating beauty. From the majestic Danube River that bisects Budapest to the vast plains dotted with wild horses, Hungary offers an unforgettable experience.
Immerse Yourself in Budapest’s Charm
Budapest, the heart of Hungary, is a city brimming with architectural wonders. Buda Castle, perched on the Buda Hills, offers stunning panoramic views. Fisherman’s Bastion, with its fairytale-like turrets, is a must-visit for photo enthusiasts. Take a stroll along the iconic Chain Bridge, a symbol of unification between Buda and Pest. But Budapest’s magic transcends landmarks. Bathe in the Szechenyi Baths, the largest medicinal bath in Europe, and soak in the city’s rich bathing culture. Explore the eccentric ruin pubs, born from the ashes of abandoned buildings, and pulsate with Budapest’s vibrant nightlife.
Venture Beyond the Capital City
Hungary boasts a diverse landscape beyond Budapest. Lake Balaton, often referred to as the “Hungarian Sea,” is a haven for relaxation. Sail across its turquoise waters, cycle along its scenic lanes, or simply bask on the golden shores. History buffs will be enthralled by Eger, a town famous for its imposing castle, thermal baths, and the robust “Bull’s Blood” wine. For a taste of Hungarian vintages, delve into the renowned Tokaj wine region, or explore the up-and-coming Villany region.
Unearth Hungary’s Hidden Gems
For those seeking unique experiences, Hungary offers a treasure trove of hidden gems. The Great Plain, with its seemingly endless grasslands, is a haven for horse lovers. Explore the Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the traditional Hungarian horsemanship culture. Take a detour to the Danube Bend, a dramatic curve in the Danube River, where charming towns like Visegrád boast captivating medieval fortress ruins. Adventure awaits beneath the surface at the Aggtelek Karst, a labyrinthine cave system perfect for spelunking enthusiasts.
Embrace the Hungarian Experience
Hungary’s thermal baths are a national treasure. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters and experience the unique Hungarian bathing culture. Many bathhouses, like the Szechenyi Baths, boast stunning architecture, adding to the experience.
Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Hungarian Cuisine
No Hungarian adventure is complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. Savor the rich flavors of goulash, a hearty stew simmered to perfection. Sample langos, a deep-fried dough drizzled with creamy sauces or savory toppings. Warm your soul with a bowl of Fisherman’s Soup, a paprika-infused broth brimming with fish and vegetables. Hungarian meals are incomplete without a touch of paprika, the national spice, and a glass of local wine.
Planning Your Hungarian Escape
Reaching Hungary is a breeze. Major airlines connect Budapest to various international destinations. Trains also offer a comfortable and scenic way to arrive. Getting around is convenient with a well-developed network of trains, buses, and trams within Budapest, and trains connecting major cities.
Hungary operates on the Hungarian forint (HUF). For stays exceeding three months, visas might be required, so check regulations before your trip.
Travel Tips for Savvy Explorers
- Explore Budapest with a Budapest Card: This card offers free public transportation and discounted entry to major attractions, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Learn a Few Hungarian Phrases: A simple “koszonom” (thank you) or “sziasztok” (hello) goes a long way in showing respect to the locals.
Hungary awaits with open arms, promising a captivating journey through time, culture, and delectable cuisine. Embrace the country’s spirit, explore its hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
It’s really impressive. As you can see, ChatGPT delivers structured information devoid of emotions, while Gemini adds captivating descriptions like “a city brimming with architectural wonders” or “Savor the rich flavors of goulash, a hearty stew simmered to perfection”. It’s fascinating how two seemingly similar tools, with the same text prompt from me, can produce such different results. For me, it’s an unexpected result of my experience.
I’ll proceed with the first variant since it will be easy to transfer to design a guide in presentation format. However, if I were planning to write an article about Hungary for my blog, I’d definitely choose the second variant, enhancing it with my experience and knowledge.
Bonus: How to design the guide?
Sure, I could just combine AI-generated text with mine and share it with my friend as a document. But that’s the easy way out, right? Why not continue my experiment and try something new and engaging?
I used Canva’s template for travel guides. It’s simple, without too many elements, but well-structured and visually appealing.
However, I decided to take it a step further and explore one of the tools in “More options” and chose FlippingBook. This tool converted my PDF from Canva into a digital travel guide with a page-flipping effect. Pretty cool, I must say. I love the result! I also added a couple of videos and GIFs, making it fun and engaging, and shared it with my friend on WhatsApp.
You can check it out here:
And, to make an honest comparison, I tried out another tool similar to Canva: Genially. The result is also impressive. It’s an easy-to-use tool with simple but appealing animations, and it includes a live link at the end.
Here it’s result:
Wrap up
Well, experimenting with various tools has been an exciting experience. While combining AI-generated text with my own was a straightforward approach, exploring more advanced options like Canva, FlippingBook, and Genially made my travel guide more creative and engaging. Each tool offered unique features that enhanced the overall presentation, from Canva’s clean and structured templates to FlippingBook’s dynamic page-flipping effect and Genially’s interactive animations.
I enjoyed this experiment and hope that it can be useful and interesting for others as well. Thanks for reading my article! 🙂
