-- AirAsia MOVE, Asia’s Best Travel Booking App as voted by World Travel Tech Awards, has revealed new insights into how different generations of Thai travelers plan their Songkran getaways—highlighting clear distinctions between Gen Z and Baby Boomers in terms of booking behavior, preferred destinations, and travel style.
According to platform data, Gen Z travelers (born 1997-2012) are embracing mobile-first, last-minute, and experience-driven travel. In contrast, Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) prefer premium comfort, planned itineraries, and cultural immersion.While Gen X and Millennials born in the middle of these generations, likely choose a mix of both.
Gen Z: Budget-Friendly, Spontaneous, and Experience-Driven
Gen Z travelers prioritize flexibility and value-for-money experiences, with 80% booking via smartphones and 24% making last-minute hotel reservations. Notably, 20% of Gen Z travelers opt for solo or backpack travel, seeking independence over structured tours.
Top preferences among Gen Z:
- Budget accommodations - 30% choose hostels, boutique hotels, or capsule hotels.
- Unique experiences - 70% look for nature escapes, hidden cafés, or local workshops.
- Top domestic destination: Chiang Mai - attracting 30% of Gen Z domestic travelers with its eco-hostels, backpacker culture, and outdoor adventures.
- Top international picks: Osaka (8%) and Da Nang (5%) - popular for food, pop culture, and adventure activities.
Baby Boomers: Premium Comfort and Cultural Travel
Meanwhile, Baby Boomers lean toward well-planned trips, luxury stays, and cultural depth. Over 50% book accommodations at least three weeks in advance, and more than 40% stay in 4- to 5-star hotels or resorts.
Top preferences among Baby Boomers:
- Packaged tours and pre-planned itineraries - chosen by 55%.
- Full-service stays - 35% prefer accommodations with spas, dining, and transfers.
- Cultural and fine dining experiences - favored by 74%.
- Top international destinations:
- Japan (14%) - Kyoto ranks highest with its historical charm and luxury ryokans.
- Vietnam (12%) - Hoi An’s blend of heritage and premium resorts appeals to this group.
- Thailand (49%) - Bangkok remains popular, particularly riverside hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, and dinner cruises.
Booking Behaviors Highlight Generational Divide
Gen Z is 45% more likely than Boomers to book stays close to major attractions, seeking convenience and spontaneity. In contrast, Baby Boomers prioritize tranquil surroundings and personalized services, with 95% higher usage of concierge and private tour options.
While Boomers value certainty and structure, Gen Z embraces flexibility and real-time decision-making—two travel styles that reflect different life stages and priorities.
Songkran Travel Deals for Every Generation
Whether you're an adventurous Gen Z traveler, Gen X, A Millennium seeking leisure or adventure, or a Baby Boomer seeking relaxation and cultural depth, AirAsia MOVE makes planning seamless and affordable for everyone from any generation with exclusive Songkran promotions.
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Booking period: Now until 13 April 2025 Available exclusively on AirAsia MOVE.
*Apply promo code SNAPNOW to get THB450 OFF with a min. spend of THB7,700. Visa cardholders get extra THB400 off on min. spend of THB6,200. Limited daily redemption. T&C apply.
AirAsia MOVE offers a one-stop app for travel, with access to over 700 airlines and 900,000+ hotel partners worldwide—making it easier than ever to book your trip, your way.
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