The online travel service provider, Booking.com, has published its APAC Travel Confidence Index 2023 which reveals that digital travel platforms have revolutionised travel planning, with over 50 per cent preferring planned itineraries. The APAC Travel Confidence Index 2023 underscores the surge in the adoption of digital travel platforms, reshaping how Indians plan, book, and experience their journeys.
The survey further reveals that 57 per cent of Indian travellers now favor meticulously planned itineraries, including local excursions, dining spots, and attractions.
For 30 per cent, reserving transport and accommodation ahead of time is essential, while spontaneity governs the rest.
In an exclusive conversation with ETTravelWorld, Skyscanner’s travel trends & destination expert, Laura Lindsay, who is also the Director, Consumer PR and Communications at the company, said that Indian travellers are still keen on travelling both internationally and domestically, despite changes in flight prices. “In fact, 54 per cent of them have expressed a desire to squeeze in one more trip if they’ve got some spare cash at the end of the year,” she said.
Trust in digital travel platforms is significant, the report stated, with 42 per cent of Indian travellers leaning on them for bookings. Notably, 40 per cent of travellers seek platforms that facilitate a connected trip experience, integrating transport, accommodation, activities, and services into an itinerary. Travellers seek these experiences due to their unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and immersive nature, the report mentioned.However, they weigh multiple factors before confirming. Besides affordability, considerations like comprehensive booking options and flexible cancellation policies are pivotal. The report states that approximately 40 per cent prioritise platforms offering flexible cancellation and refund policies.
The report also states that around 50 per cent of respondents utilise online accommodation platforms to compare prices before finalising bookings. Nearly 40 per cent opt for platforms boasting a variety of stay options, from hotels to resorts, hostels and more.
The latest GBTA Business Travel Index Outlook projects a rebound in the industry, aiming to reclaim its pre-pandemic expenditure of USD 1.4 trillion by 2024 and surge to USD 1.8 trillion by 2027. 32 per cent growth is forecasted for 2023. The report revealed that 82 per cent of surveyed business travellers found trips effective, spending an average of USD 1,018 per person.
Additionally, about 35 per cent value user experiences and reviews when selecting a platform. The report stated that the loyalty programs influence 24 per cent of Indian travellers’ platform choices.For the APAC Travel Confidence Index, Booking.com, in partnership with Milieu Insight, conducted research across 11 APAC countries and territories, involving 8,800 respondents.
The study evaluated parameters like willingness to travel, spending intentions, trip frequency, and travel propensity within the current macroeconomic context. Additionally, it delved into travel considerations, sustainability perspectives, and market-specific queries. Rankings were established using a two-axis framework, revealing travel confidence and sustainability interest levels.
