Tag: Airbnb

News

Indian Millennials and Gen Z Propel Thailand Travel Boom on Airbnb

Jun 10, 2024 by Mansi Praharaj 0 Comments #Airbnb, #Gen Z Propel, #Indian Millennial, #Thailand, #Thailand Travel

New Delhi, 10 June 2024 — New data from Airbnb reveals that between 2022 and 2023, bookings in Thailand by Indian guests on Airbnb increased more than 60 percent year-on-year, and a noticeable surge of interest during the recent Holi and Easter long weekends when searches by Indian guests for stays in Thailand during this period increased more than 200 percent.

According to data from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, India is the fifth largest inbound market for Thailand. This growth in interest amongst Indian travellers is credited to the government’s visa-free policy and recently announced extension till 11 November 2024 and is further fuelled by the availability of various non-stop daily flights. From their favourite destinations, to the types of stays they prefer, traveller types and demographics, Airbnb shares its latest data on India-Thailand travel trends.

This surge in travel interest on Airbnb is driven by India’s changing demographics and a new, more travel inclined younger generation, with Gen Z and Millennial Indian guests accounting for 80 percent of bookings in 2023*. India has the highest population of Gen Zs and Millennials in the world so it’s not surprising that youth is at the heart of Airbnb in India as well.

Thailand’s city and beach destinations made up the top 5 most booked destinations by Indian guests on Airbnb:

  • Bangkok
  • Phuket
  • Chiang Mai
  • Krabi
  • Samui

The desire for beach and city getaways is also seen in stays chosen by Indian guests – the most booked Airbnb Categories in Thailand by Indian guests were Pool, Tropical, Near a beach, Near a national park and Iconic city.

Based on Airbnb bookings by Indian guests, Duo and Solo travellers were the largest traveller types, while small groups (3-5 pax) and medium sized groups (5 pax+) were the fastest growing, increasing by approximately 67 percent and 68 percent year-on-year respectively in 2023.

“Travellers from India on Airbnb continue to show their love for Thailand with a growing interest in exploring destinations across the country. In addition to some of Thailand’s top destinations, we see Indian guests also exploring lesser known areas and supporting a more inclusive tourism in Thailand that spreads economic opportunities to more people in more places, not just big cities ,” said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

“The Thai government’s extension of the visa waiver for citizens of both countries will further support and drive inbound tourism. There is strong appetite for Thailand amongst Indian travellers and we will continue to support Thailand’s tourism initiatives and help to make Thailand top of mind amongst Indian travellers.”

Favouring beach destinations and pool villas, here are some of the Most Wishlisted Amazing Pools stays by Indian guests on Airbnb in 2023:

  • The Sand Private Bungalow with Plunge Pool (Phuket)
  • Beachfront Villa near Ao Nang (Krabi)
  • Passambhati Villa (Samui)
  • 3 Bedroom Villa with Private Pool (Pattaya)
  • Grand Seaview Pool Suite (Phuket)
  • Oceanfront Deluxe 1 Bedroom Villa (Samui)
Business

Indian women Hosts earned over INR 2 Billion (200 Crores) through hosting on Airbnb in 2023

Mar 7, 2024 by Mansi Praharaj 0 Comments #Airbnb, #Amanpreet Bajaj, #Delhi, #Inspire Inclusion, #Sayani Gupta

Delhi, India, March 7, 2024: This International Women’s Day, Airbnb is celebrating the growing community of women Hosts and female Guests who play a vital role in the hospitality sector. Embracing this year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion’, Airbnb recognises the diverse and dynamic ways in which women leverage the platform to foster economic opportunities, inclusivity and entrepreneurship across India.

In 2023, women Hosts in India, constituting nearly 30% of the country’s Airbnb hosting community[1], have been instrumental in creating unique guest experiences. Indian women Hosts collectively earned over INR 2 billion (approximately 200 crores / USD 28 million) in 2023[2], showcasing the profound impact of women in stimulating local economies and supporting community growth. These women not only offer exceptional experiences to travellers but also empower others by creating job opportunities, especially for those in underserved communities.

Talking about her hosting journey on Airbnb, Superhost Anooradha who has been hosting since 2017 said, “I find great fulfilment in engaging with individuals who share similar interests and values. This passion prompted me to embark on my Airbnb journey seven years ago, initially hosting guests at the retreat nestled within our holiday home. While the supplementary income has certainly been beneficial, what truly resonates with me is the platform’s ability to foster meaningful connections with guests. These connections, in my view, are immensely empowering. For any women considering embarking on their own hosting venture, I encourage you to infuse your personal touch, warmth, and creativity in your home. This is what ultimately creates a memorable and distinctive experience for guests.”

Sharing her story, Superhost Sumana said, “As a female residing in the vibrant city of Bhubaneswar, hosting on Airbnb has led me to a path of inner strength while pursuing my passions and garnering financial independence. Transitioning from a corporate job to becoming a full-time host has brought me immense stability and peace. It allows me to forge meaningful connections with guests from all over the country while immersing myself in their stories and experiences. The satisfaction of accommodating guests’ needs and witnessing their joy remains a heartwarming reward for me. I look forward to more such experiences to serve and connect with people and inspire more women to embark on this unique journey of strength and resilience.”

Talking about the role women are increasingly playing in enabling the platform and highlighting Airbnb’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable community, Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager – Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan said, “Women play a vital role in fueling economies, by driving growth & social transformation. At Airbnb, we are committed to creating an inclusive, diverse, equitable community for our women Hosts & guests. Our commitment goes beyond supporting individual hosts; we also collaborate with government partners to ensure communities everywhere can thrive in our evolving travel landscape. By promoting safe, respectful, and welcoming spaces, Airbnb aims to empower women hosts and travellers alike, envisioning travel as a powerful tool for global empowerment and connection.”

On the other hand, Indian women travellers, particularly Millennials, are increasingly choosing Airbnb for their travel needs[3]. In terms of choice of destinations for women guests, top domestic destinations domestically in 2023 included Goa, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Pune, Dehradun, and Jaipur while internationally, destinations like London, Dubai, Toronto, Paris, New York City, Milan, Rome, Bangkok were popular[4].

Last year, a large segment of the Indian women guests preferred to travel solo, or in duos. Infact, 30% of the Indian women guests travelled solo in 2023[5]. National Parks, iconic cities, tropical, private rooms and pools were the most booked categories by Indian women guests in 2023[6].

Talking about travelling on Airbnb, Actor, Sayani Gupta shares, “Over the past few years the ‘solo travel’ trend has been adopted by women all across India. For me personally, solo travel has always been my source of solace, with Airbnb consistently serving as my preferred travel companion. Airbnb is not just a place to stay but a gateway to embracing independence while forging new experiences and connections. As a frequent solo traveller, Airbnb has enabled me to explore the world through diverse accommodations, offering a unique lens on every journey, ensuring safety. This Women’s Day, I commend Airbnb’s commitment to providing comfort for avid female travellers like myself, while also empowering others with a platform to embark on their entrepreneurial journey as hosts.”