Agoda has pinpointed six Asian destinations that are particularly well-suited to the growing 'skip-gen' travel trend, where grandparents and grandchildren travel together without the middle generation. The trend is gaining momentum across the region, fueled by healthier, more active retirees and the increasing ease with which older travelers can book trips online.
Destinations tailored for multigenerational exploration
In Japan, Kanazawa offers a blend of samurai-era heritage, preserved geisha districts, and tranquil gardens, making it ideal for unhurried exploration. South Korea's Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, features a flat, park-like layout that is perfect for walking or cycling, with attractions such as Gyeongju World amusement park adding a dash of fun for younger visitors.
India's Mysore combines imperial grandeur with a gentle pace, centered on the opulent Mysore Palace and the serene Karanji Lake Nature Park. In China, Lijiang's UNESCO-listed Old Town and the nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offer a picturesque setting that requires minimal physical exertion, appealing to mixed-age groups.
Vietnam's Ninh Binh presents dramatic limestone karsts and rice paddies, best experienced via gentle sampan boat rides, while Taiwan's Tainan offers historic districts and vibrant night markets that are easy to navigate at a relaxed tempo.
Jay Lee, Regional Director for North Asia at Agoda, commented, “Skip-gen travel taps into something culturally specific to Asia, with grandparent-grandchild bonds often carrying a different and special kind of warmth.”
The trend is not just a cultural phenomenon but a commercial opportunity for the travel industry. Agoda's August Mega Sale, offering up to 60% off hotel bookings, is designed to make it easier for families to secure suitable accommodations for these multigenerational trips. This aligns with Agoda's broader push into experience-driven travel, as seen in its recent data on festivals driving accommodation demand across Asia.
For hoteliers and destination marketers, the rise of skip-gen travel signals a need for properties and itineraries that cater to diverse age groups, with accessible layouts, flexible dining options, and activities that bridge generational gaps. Agoda's insights, including its data on South Korea's inbound travel surge, underscore the importance of understanding evolving traveler demographics.
As the travel industry adapts to post-pandemic demand, the skip-gen segment represents a resilient niche, driven by grandparents who are increasingly tech-savvy and eager to create lasting memories with their grandchildren. Agoda's platform, with its user-friendly interface and promotional campaigns, is well-positioned to capture this demand, as evidenced by its revamped partner portal with AI tools that help properties cater to such niche markets.
For travel agents and tour operators, the trend offers a chance to design packages that combine cultural immersion with leisure, ensuring that both grandparents and grandchildren find the journey rewarding. The destinations highlighted by Agoda provide a blueprint for what makes a successful skip-gen trip: manageable distances, cultural richness, and a mix of relaxation and gentle adventure.
As the concept gains traction, expect more destinations across Asia to tailor their offerings to this demographic, from senior-friendly hotel rooms to intergenerational activities. Agoda's proactive approach in identifying these spots positions it as a thought leader in the space, and its tech-driven partnerships with tourism boards could further accelerate the trend.
