Young Indians Drive Surge in Travel to Thailand, with Gen Z and Millennials Leading Bookings

New Delhi, 10 June 2024: New data from Airbnb reveals a significant increase in bookings to Thailand by Indian guests, with a year-on-year growth of over 60% from 2022 to 2023. This surge was particularly noticeable during the recent Holi and Easter long weekends, when searches by Indian guests for stays in Thailand rose by more than 200%.

According to Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, India is now the fifth largest inbound market for Thailand. This growth is attributed to the Thai government’s visa-free policy, which has been extended until 11 November 2024, and the availability of numerous non-stop daily flights.

The increase in travel interest is driven by India’s younger generation, with Gen Z and Millennials making up 80% of bookings by Indian guests on Airbnb in 2023. India has the largest population of Gen Zs and Millennials globally, making this demographic a significant force in the travel market.

The top five destinations in Thailand booked by Indian guests on Airbnb are:
1. Bangkok
2. Phuket
3. Chiang Mai
4. Krabi
5. Samui

Indian travelers show a strong preference for beach and city getaways, with the most booked Airbnb categories being Pool, Tropical, Near a beach, Near a national park, and Iconic city.

Duo and Solo travelers constitute the largest traveler types, while small groups (3-5 people) and medium-sized groups (5+ people) are the fastest growing segments, increasing by approximately 67% and 68% year-on-year respectively in 2023.

“Travelers 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 travelers and we will continue to support Thailand’s tourism initiatives and help to make Thailand top of mind amongst Indian travelers.”

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)

*Data based on India users’ booking data for 2023 vs 2022. Gen Z guests are aged 18-29 and Millennial guests are aged 30-39.
**Data based on India users’ search data for the Holi and Easter long weekend, with check-in dates between 23 March – 31 March 2024, compared with the same period last year.
***Data based on India users’ booking data for 2023.