New Delhi, May 14 – Global online accommodation giant Airbnb is setting its sights on India's vast millennial and Gen Z population as a key driver of future growth. Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer Nathan Blecharczyk highlighted the company’s bullish stance on India, underscoring the significant potential of this youthful demographic.
Young Travellers Fuel Airbnb’s Surge in India
Blecharczyk revealed that India, now the most populous country in the world, boasts the largest concentration of young people, a primary target audience for Airbnb. He noted a remarkable 40 percent year-on-year increase in bookings from Indian millennials and Gen Z in Q4 2024 compared to Q4 2023, reflecting a robust growth trajectory."These young travellers are adventurous, eager to explore the world, and they seek unique stays that allow them to bring friends and create lasting memories," he said.
Further reinforcing this trend, 90 percent of first-time Indian guests on Airbnb are from the millennial and Gen Z cohorts, suggesting strong traction among this group.
Trend-Driven Travel: From Bollywood to Global Hotspots
Indian travellers, according to Blecharczyk, often choose destinations based on aspirational experiences. Cities like London, Amsterdam, and Paris, popularized through Bollywood and social media trends, rank high on their travel lists."People want to go where the stars go. The idea of sharing experiences with local hosts or fellow travellers—like learning to cook with a Michelin-starred chef—adds a personal and memorable layer to their journeys," he added.
Expansion of Airbnb Services and Experiences
To capitalise on evolving traveller preferences, Airbnb has launched Airbnb Services and Airbnb Experiences alongside a revamped mobile app. These offerings span ten curated categories, including:- Customisable in-home meals by professional chefs
- Personalised photo shoots with skilled photographers
- Therapeutic massages by certified professionals
- Fitness sessions like yoga and strength training led by world-renowned athletes
"Surveys show that 50 percent of Indian travellers are interested in participating in such experiences within their own cities," Blecharczyk noted, highlighting the domestic market's untapped potential.
Resilience Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty
While refraining from direct comments on the ongoing India-Pakistan military tensions, Blecharczyk acknowledged that such global disruptions impact travel patterns. However, he stressed that interest in travel remains strong."Even when travel plans shift due to external events, people still choose to travel. We saw this during COVID and with other conflicts. With Airbnb’s presence in over 190 countries, travellers can always find alternative destinations," he added.