Generation Z, known for its strong connection to technology and focus on authentic experiences, is transforming the tourism landscape.
According to a study by Marriott International, this generation demonstrates a notable commitment to travel, not only as a recreational activity but as a financial and cultural priority.
Some key points of their habits and preferences are that 92.4% of young people of this generation save for their trips, which highlights their strategic vision to meet their exploration goals.
According to the survey, 78% opt for local tourism, a change is observed towards valuing nearby communities, fostering a deeper connection with their roots and regional culture.
More than 52% prioritize ecotourism and sustainability with responsible practices, opting for experiences that respect the environment and promote a positive impact on the communities visited.
The importance of this generation in the tourism field is such, especially for the Mexican Caribbean, that according to data from the Tourist Profile and Behavior of the state Tourism Promotion Council, in 2023 they represented 15.3% of the more than 21 million tourists who visited the entity, a figure that is expected to increase exponentially, in at least the next five years.
Regarding their travel planning, 65.6% of those also called centennials plan family trips and 47.3% opt for getaways as a couple. In addition, according to the study, an increase in the preference for solo trips is observed, due because 37.1% find it attractive because of the freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to meet new people.
In the case of the Riviera Maya, a high percentage of accommodation goes to young couples between 20 and 29 years old who like to take trips to the Yucatan Peninsula.
And as it is a strategic destination to visit parks and cenotes, they cross to Cozumel to enjoy the day on the island, said Offner Arjona, president of the Small Hotels association in Playa del Carmen.
“Both national and international tourism of the new generations have this strategy and the last days of their vacation they go to an All-Inclusive because they have already done everything they planned, and in the last days they just want to relax and do not want to go out anywhere else,” he indicated.
The results of the survey show that planning for them is essential; In the region, local trips are organized one to two months in advance, while international trips require between two and five months of preparation.
Despite the meticulous organization, the average time spent enjoying the trip is only one week.
Mobile technology plays a key role in their tourism experiences, allowing them to organize all aspects of a trip from the comfort of their device.
Finally, Generation Z has revolutionized the way we travel and it is essential that the tourism industry remains at the forefront to satisfy these needs, the work concludes.
TYT Newsroom
