About 40% Indians positive about travel this year: Airbnb

Indians are looking at travel in newer ways and exploring flexible, nearby travel and travel to work remotely, according to a three week survey conducted in April, May with a sample size of 1023 participants. "The survey showed that 43% of Indians would like to travel this year when able to (66% to destinations that are a drive away) and are excited about visiting new places with loved ones, relaxing in nature, enjoying offbeat destinations and sharing their experiences and recommendations with others. A third would like to spend time travelling and working in different locations," said a press release issued by Airbnb. "More than a third of respondents (36%) would like to travel and explore new places with loved ones. About eight in ten (78%) said they would like to be closer to their family in order to receive or provide support," it added. A third of Indian travelers (33%) would like to spend time travelling and working ‘anywhere’ in different locations, in a post-pandemic world, the survey said adding that about two-thirds (62%) of respondents say they would opt for off-peak times of the year to travel. "Seven in ten (69%) respondents are interested in unique accommodations such as heritage homes, havelis, farm stays and villas when they travel next and a third (35%) say that they are very likely to stay in unique accommodations when they travel next. GenZ (70%) and Millennials (73%), who comprise a large pool of current and future travelers, are leading this trend," said the release. "Half of new listings globally that were both activated and booked in early 2021 got a reservation request within four days, and for the year ending April 30, 2021, the average annual earnings per Homes Host who has welcomed at least one guest on Airbnb was about $9,600," said the company.