Travel preferences are becoming increasingly diverse among Filipinos, with the country’s most dynamic youth turning their backs on traditional destinations in favor of emerging markets like Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand. A recent study by Klook, Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services, aimed to gauge the behavior of Filipino travelers as they continue to push the boundaries of their travel preferences. Millennials and Gen Zs, in particular, are embracing travel as a therapeutic tool, using it to escape the stresses of everyday life and indulge in new experiences. The study found that 65 percent of respondents booked bundles, indicating that Filipinos value convenience and ease when planning their trips. The trend towards adventurous tours, digital detox, wellness, and meditation retreats is expected to continue, with 63 percent of respondents opting for hidden gem adventures and 57 percent participating in workshops and classes that pique their interest. 37.3 percent of respondents cited perfect weather as the top consideration when booking their trips, followed closely by scheduling around work and school vacations. Vietnam and Taiwan emerged as hotspots in the Klook Travel Pulse survey, attracting Filpinos looking for new experiences and unique activities. Social media plays a significant role in travel inspiration, with 89 percent of respondents citing social media as a primary driver of their travel decisions. Klook found that quick content like photos and short-form videos are the preferred means of travel inspiration among respondents, followed by long-form videos and in-depth blog posts that delve deeper into destinations. Travelers are embracing the benefits of digitalization, with 78.4 percent using travel as a form of therapy and managing their stress and well-being. However, 92.2 percent of respondents experience post-travel blues, indicating the need for balance and downtime between trips.
In a significant discovery, Klook found that AI is increasingly being used by Filipinos to plan their trips. 58.4 percent of respondents have sought the help of AI in planning their trips, and 35 percent are yet to try it out but are interested in giving it a shot. Millennials and Gen Zs are more likely to use AI in planning their trips, with 64.4 percent and 51.8 percent of respondents opting for AI-based solutions.
Hotel bookings are also on the rise, with Filipinos booking 1-2 night stays at hotels that offer breakfast and a pool. Quick decisions to book hotel stays in advance have contributed to the increase, with 45 percent of respondents securing hotels within the past month.
According to recent data, there has been a significant increase in bookings of hotels within the Philippines. This growth is further backed by a 202 percent rise in the number of Filipinos booking local hotels, and a 160 percent increase in inbound tourists booking local hotels. Overall, the growth of hotel bookings highlights the evolving demand for travel and experiences.
Klook is continually expanding and improving its offerings to cater to the evolving preferences of its users. The company’s latest collaboration with Hospitality Innovators, Inc. (HII) aims to provide a range of new hotel options and experiences exclusively available on the Klook platform.
“Our collaboration with Klook Philippines caters to the growing demand for hotels by both Filipinos and foreign tourists through their platform. With the central goal to elevate the guest journey at our properties, we’ve joined forces to create unique experiences when staying in HII hotels,” said Luis Monserrat, Founder, President and CEO of HII.
The Rise of Digitalization in Travel Planning
A significant discovery by Klook was that 57.7 percent of respondents are strapped between work, financial constraints, and time limitations, making travel frequency and preferences occasionally inaccessible or unmet. However, 48 percent of respondents feel completely recharged after travels, and 49.1 percent immediately start planning their next trip, indicating the growing demand for travel experiences. The study also found that Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to use AI in planning their trips, with 64.4 percent and 51.8 percent of respondents opting for AI-based solutions. This growing reliance on AI highlights the rapidly changing landscape of travel planning and the increasing use of technology in the process.
Finding the Perfect Balance
While the study highlights the growth of digitalization in travel planning, it also underscores the importance of finding a balance between travel and everyday life. 92.2 percent of respondents experience post-travel blues, suggesting that while travel is an essential source of relaxation and stress relief, it’s equally important to have downtime and recharge between trips. Klook found that 31.6 percent of respondents choose a nature retreat for a creative reset, highlighting the value of spending time in nature to recharge and refocus. This emphasis on self-care and relaxation underscores the growing importance of mental well-being in the lives of Filipinos.
A New Era of Travel Experiences
The collaboration between Klook and Hospitality Innovators, Inc. (HII) marks a new era of travel experiences for Filipinos. The company’s growing offerings and exclusive hotel options aim to cater to the evolving preferences of its users, providing a range of unique experiences that cater to diverse interests and lifestyles. As the travel industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that Filipinos are at the forefront of this change. With their growing preferences for diverse travel experiences, social media inspiration, and the increasing use of AI in travel planning, it’s an exciting time for travel and tourism in the country. Definitions
- AI (Artificial Intelligence): A software technology that enables humans to solve problems in intelligent ways.
- Digitalization: The transformation of the way we live, work, and communicate through technology.
- Experiential travel: A form of travel that focuses on immersive experiences, such as food, culture, and adventure activities.
- Tourism: The practice of traveling, usually for pleasure, recreation, or business.
Key Highlights
* 98.5 percent of respondents plan to travel domestically or internationally in the next year. * 65 percent of respondents booked bundles, indicating a preference for convenience and ease. * 63 percent of respondents opted for adventurous tours, digital detox, wellness, and meditation retreats. * 89 percent of respondents cite social media as a primary driver of their travel decisions. * 78.4 percent of respondents use travel as a form of therapy and manage their stress and well-being. * 58.4 percent of respondents have sought the help of AI in planning their trips. Timelines
| Year | Percentage of Respondents Seeking AI in Travel Planning |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 35% |
| 2025 | 58.4% |
Statistics
- The Klook platform recorded a 190 percent increase in hotel bookings.
- The number of Filipinos booking local hotels rose by 160 percent, and the number of inbound tourists booking local hotels rose by 202 percent.
- The Klook collaboration with HII saw a 913.7 percent growth in bookings.