Asia-Pacific travellers plan to spend more this year

A gloomy economic climate notwithstanding, 38 per cent of travellers foresee higher travel-related expenditure this year, says a global study by CNN on travel and tourism patterns of consumers.

In comparison, 17 per cent said they would tighten purse strings, found CNN Consumer Connect – Travel and Tourism 2013, which drew responses from 3,106 individuals from more than 70 countries worldwide. Survey participants reported spending an average of US$3,000 per holiday and making three leisure trips a year.

The report also found that 54 per cent of respondents from Asia-Pacific intend to travel within their home region, compared to the remaining 46 per cent who place visiting other regions at the top of their wishlist. On a global scale, 51 per cent of travellers have specific Asia-Pacific destinations they plan to visit within the next 12 months. Australia, Thailand and Hong Kong are among the top travel choices within Asia-Pacific.

Meanwhile, 54 per cent are contemplating visiting new and emerging destinations and 58 per cent of respondents have booked entire holidays online.

And when it comes to choosing a destination, 65 per cent of Asia-Pacific travellers regard price as a key factor, followed by safety with 64 per cent and reputation with 57 per cent.

Duncan Morris, vice president of research, Turner International Asia Pacific, said: “These results are great news for the travel and tourism industry…At a time where money in the household is perceived to be tighter, spending on holidays is still obviously a priority.”

-TTG Asia.