Social media and Internet influence decision of Indian travelers

Social media and Internet connectivity influence the decision of Indian travelers while picking accommodation, a survey has revealed.

To mark World Tourism Day on September 27, Airbnb, a community-driven hospitality platform, came out with its first-ever India Travel Trends Survey to highlight the changing preferences and styles of Indian travelers, read a statement.

Airbnb commissioned a survey in 10 cities in India amongst 10,000 (male and female) respondents amongst the age of 18-54 via Pollfish in July 2018.

It revealed that the Indian traveler, once identified as a budget seeker, is now actively looking for more holistic travel experiences.

The Indian traveler has embraced the global phenomena of staying connected at all times. This is reflected in the fact that 47 percent of the survey respondents across India cited WiFi as the most important amenity that helps them choose an accommodation.

The survey states that social media determines the choice of accommodation for the Indian traveler. A key finding showcased that 94 percent of respondents consider social media when booking an accommodation.

According to the report, many Indian travelers are now actively seeking luxurious experiences and having access to a pool emerged a key factor while choosing accommodation options.

It also suggested that Indian travelers opt for 'family-friendly' homes. It noted that nearly 51 percent opted for family-friendly amenities such as playsets, garden areas, activity zones, TV, and access to books as the most important amenities while choosing accommodation. Amongst travelers in the age group of 45-54 years, this number further spiked to 66 percent.

Another trend that emerged from the survey is the rising interest amongst Indian travelers in making sustainable choices. A majority of respondents actively sought eco-friendly features.

Commenting on the evolving preferences of the Indian traveler, Amanpreet Bajaj, Country Manager, Airbnb, India, said: "The new age Indian traveler now places greater importance on travel in their life, and is using it as a way to break away from their everyday routine to discover themselves and the world."