The "Alma, Your Virtual Companion" project was developed to redefine user engagement on the Slovenian Tourist Board's (STO) portal, slovenia.info. The key goal was to inspire potential visitors by providing personalized, AI-driven guidance, tailored recommendations, and real-time updates—all while reflecting the unique character of Slovenia.
AI Alma was named after Alma M. Karlin, a world traveller and “influencer” of her time, known for her courage and curiosity:
https://www.slovenia.info/en/stories/alma-m-karlin-all-round-world-traveller
It was designed not only to be an AI assistant but in more and more a digital persona. Through this distinct personality, Alma cultivates emotional connections with users, encouraging exploration by providing insightful tips and expert recommendations for a range of interests.
The project has significantly enhanced slovenia.info, creating an engaging, informative experience available 24/7 across multiple languages. Launched in late May 2024, the Alma virtual travel guide project stands out as:
Alma not only increases STO’s productivity but also plays a critical role in influencing travel decisions, making the slovenia.info portal a trusted digital gateway for visitors worldwide.