Study: Sabre Names 2020 Trends in Asia-Pacific

SINGAPORE—Sabre Corporation has released the results of an APAC-wide study that compiles insight from more than 500 travel professionals. Looking toward 2020, here are five key trends revealed by leisure travel consultants from more than 24 countries across Asia-Pacific.

Forever Young
Travel professionals reveal that those aged between 35-50 make up close to 60% of their customer-base, proving that despite the rise of online platforms meant to facilitate personal bookings, there’s nothing quite like having a professional to help enhance the booking experience. What’s more, three in five respondents indicate that personalized requests are the main reason why customers reach out, allowing them to create unique packages that reflect each traveler’s needs.

Silver is Golden
The Asian population is quickly aging. More than 40% of consumers served by travel agents are over the age of 50, and more than one-third of those surveyed identified that retirees are among their most popular customers, just after families and couples. In fact, four in 10 agents confirm that travel for groups of retired people is on the rise, with packaged tours listed as the main reason why people over 50 reach out to travel agents. A total of 46% of those included in the 50-69 branch, and close to 60% of the 70 and over age group, request packaged tours that include flights, hotel and transportation bookings, with wellness or religious activities often being the main reason for their bookings.

Green Giant
Consumers in APAC are increasingly taking the environment into consideration when making purchases and travel is no different. Sabre’s Traveler Trend Survey found that more than 60% of travel consultants identified a growing concern for the environment among travelers. The survey also revealed that 70% of travelers are asking for sustainable tourism options, and close to 30% are requesting for alternate modes of transportation. The survey also revealed that only 2% of leisure travelers across Asia-Pacific ask to purchase carbon credits.

The Gender Gap
With solo travel growing year on year, the Sabre Traveler Trends Survey discloses that in Asia, men account for 10% more of the solo travel bookings than women. When it comes to bookings, women tend to prefer traveling in groups. However, when it’s time for a couples’ getaway, the survey reveals that both parties do their part, with nearly 40% of both men and women reaching out to their travel consultant to assist with the booking.

Me, Myself and I
As consumers across the board expect customization to be part of their retail experience, 60% of respondents indicate that personalization is the main reason why they are called upon to book travel.