With the rise of hybrid remote work, findings show that travellers who prefer to disconnect while on holiday struggle to do so.
Rather than venturing out to explore or sightsee, survey data reveal a shift towards staying in to enjoy hotel amenities, wellness and dining. As international travel surges ahead, a new study by Hilton reveals that local consumers are quickly embracing travel once more to rebuild family bonds and revive body and soul.
Following the release of Hiltons 2022 Global Trends Report, new data from a survey conducted with over 1,000 respondents across Australia and five additional SE Asian markets show that after years of closed borders, mandated restrictions, and streamlined social circles, families cannot wait to travel together. DISCONNECTING NEW RHYTHMS OF REST The rise of remote working during the pandemic has perpetuated an always-on culture, resulting in a greater need to establish new rhythms.
While travelling has always been an avenue for adventure, survey findings show that it’s necessary to disconnect when the lines between work and life are increasingly blurred. 64% of employed respondents from Australia cannot seem to switch off their work mode, despite saying they would like to There is also the added stress of guilt associated with responding to work emails while on vacation, according to 58% of Australians RENEWED PRIORITY CONNECTIONS WITH FAMILY While health, safety and cleanliness remain a top priority, family travellers across all six markets are ever more motivated to be together.
This new emphasis on togetherness is not only reflected in picking pastimes but also in preferred room arrangements. 51% of Australians now place a lot more thought in planning for family-friendly activities during trips. For 61% of Australians, confirmed room upgrades are considered an important hotel and resort offer, minimizing uncertainty and giving families greater peace of mind. REIGNITED INTIMACIES Compounded stress during the pandemic has taken a toll on couples as they turn to travel to reignite the romance. As the data reveals, creating meaningful connections with one’s significant other is a high priority.
Having a romantic meal with a significant other consistently ranks high among other preferred activities when they have alone time while travelling with family. Parents hoping to steal a moment to themselves while on holiday may find keeping the kids entertained can be a challenge. Screens may be a go-to distraction to keep children entertained, but as the survey reveals, it comes with strings attached to parental guilt. 96% of parents inevitably allow their children some amount of screen time to keep them occupied while on vacation.
REBUILDING BONDS OVER FOOD Survey findings also show that family travellers are looking forward to sitting together with good food that everyone will enjoy, reflecting how the simple act of sharing a family meal together after years of restrictions carries deeper significance.
Written by: Matthew Thomas