Influencers Miss Flight After Relying on ChatGPT for Travel Info

A Spanish influencer duo, Mery Caldass and Alejandro Cid, recently faced a widely discussed social media mishap while preparing for a trip to Puerto Rico to attend a Bad Bunny concert. They turned to ChatGPT to confirm whether they needed a visa as European citizens, and the AI assured them it wasn’t required—a statement that was technically correct for a short visit.

However, ChatGPT omitted a critical detail: travelers entering U.S. territory, which includes Puerto Rico, must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding. Upon arrival at the airport, the couple was denied boarding due to the missing document, leaving them stranded and heartbroken.

In a viral TikTok video, Mery and Alejandro shared their disappointment, explaining they had conducted extensive research—though this time, they placed excessive trust in the AI’s advice. Alejandro attempted to downplay the situation for their followers, but the damage was done: their vacation was canceled because of a missing “tip” from the chatbot.

ChatGPT and Travel Formalities: Use with Caution

While artificial intelligence can be a valuable tool in daily life, its use requires caution, especially for sensitive tasks such as verifying travel requirements. This incident highlights why it’s essential to cross-check AI-generated advice with official sources, such as a specialized visa agency or the embassy of the destination country, when dealing with visas, electronic travel authorizations (e-visas), or other entry permits.

Entry requirements can change frequently, and destination-specific terminology may be nuanced. Without careful verification, even a correctly stated fact can lead to costly oversights.

No Visa Needed? Don’t Forget the ESTA

ChatGPT provided accurate information—that no visa is required for short stays in the U.S.—but it failed to clearly convey the necessity of applying for an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Spanish citizens can indeed travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, but completion of the ESTA application remains mandatory. We tested the tool using the same query; outcomes can vary depending on phrasing, reinforcing the need for precise, comprehensive questioning when consulting AI for travel planning.

The incident sparked a wave of reactions online—some criticism aimed at the couple’s credulity, others at the blind trust placed in generative AI. Many commenters emphasized that a quick visit to an official government website would have prevented the mishap, underscoring the importance of verifying travel regulations through authoritative channels, particularly when planning international trips.