Travel a Priority for Young Aussies

Travel is the ultimate aspiration for young Australians with 84% of 18 to 35 years olds saving for a trip, according to new research by Contiki.

The Style Miles Report showed that three million Australians aged between 18 and 35 planned to travel overseas in the next three to four years, with 52% of them planning more than one trip.

Asia emerged as the most popular region for young Australians with 52% visiting in the last three to four years.

The most popular destination was Bangkok, with 48% hoping to visit the Thai capital.

Domestic travel also proved popular with 2.5 million in the same age group planning to make a domestic trip in the same timeframe.

Escorted travel came out as the most popular method of travel, with 66% of young Aussies preferring that type of trip, although with some tailormade experiences included.

Food, music, art and fashion were highlighted as the most important factors for young people when planning a trip. “Young people are increasingly seeking out authentic experiences while overseas,” Contiki managing director Fiona Hunt said.

Food was most important factor with 96% saying local cuisine was an important element of travel.

Music came second, with 77% keen to experience local music or visit a musical landmark.

Travellers became more interested in the arts when on holiday with 74% of 18-35s taking in museums, galleries, theatres and dance during the trip, considerably more than the 59% who took an interest when at home.

Experiencing local fashion was a priority for 57%, with shopping increasingly popular because of the strength of the Aussie dollar.

(Source: By Anne Majumdar, Travel Weekly, 10th August 2011)