TTC Tour Brands has unveiled the results of its first-ever 'Big Tour
Study,' a comprehensive global survey of TTC Tour travellers in Asia.
The study sheds light into the motivations of guided travel, overall
travel sentiment, and its implications for the tour industry as a whole.
The findings aim to guide travel advisors in booking open-aged brands
such as Trafalgar, Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, and Costsaver.
Mae Cheah, managing director of TTC Tour Brands in Asia, expressed
the company's commitment to supporting its partners by providing
valuable resources and insights. The annual study will showcase the
preferences and expectations of thousands of TTC Tour travelers,
equipping advisors with the necessary information to tailor travel
experiences and make informed recommendations.
The Big Tour Study highlights five key insights:
- The big icons remain big: The study revealed that
91% of TTC Tour travellers prioritise sightseeing and bucket list
experiences. However, 62% also expressed a desire for
off-the-beaten-path moments that can be discovered through expertly
guided tours.
- Europe continues to shine: Europe remains the top
continent of travel, with Spain, Croatia, and Italy ranking as the top
three destinations within the region.
- Guided tours provide assurance: Travellers choose
guided tours for the assurance of local expertise and a hassle-free
experience. 82% of TTC Tour travellers value the destination and
logistical expertise provided by guided tours.
- Tours deliver new experiences: The research
highlights that exploring new countries or regions (67%) and immersing
oneself in new cultures and experiences (61%) are driving factors for
booking a tour. Additionally, 53% of tourers are willing to spend more
on premium tours that offer a range of inclusions, including stays in 4-
and 5-star accommodations.
- Strong desire for international travel: 99% of
tourers prioritise international travel, with 86% planning to travel
within the next 12 months. The study indicates that only 6% feel unable
to afford a holiday due to the cost of living.
Furthermore, the study reveals that tour travellers seek connections
with like-minded individuals, providing them the opportunity to meet new
people and forge friendships during their journeys. The study also
emphasises the need for more tour choices to cater to different age
groups and their varying priorities.
The Big Tour Study surveyed 573 respondents across Asia, with a
majority of female respondents (58%) aged 50-69 (66%) and working
full-time (33%).