People over 60 are flocking to Airbnb faster than millennials
Globetrotting isn't just for millennials — a new report by Airbnb reveals that the senior sector has been bitten by the travel bug. As both hosts and travelers, the over-60 set are the site's fastest growing demographic.
And seniors aren't just booking homes in exotic places, they're opting for thrill-seeking experiences around the world. From exploring the unseen corners of Hong Kong to indulging in Havana's culinary culture, the report revealed that there was a 260% increase in Experience bookings – activities designed and led by locals – by seniors worldwide since last year. And the number of Experiences hosted by locals ages 60 and over has grown by nearly 1100% in the last year.
Seniors are traveling more because the average senior is relatively healthy and physically active, explains Dr. Marc Agronin, a geriatric psychiatrist at Miami Jewish Health, told Moneyish. "Expectations for post-retirement plans have grown dramatically and this drives a travel boom for seniors," said Agronin. Indeed, according to the AARP's 2018 Travel Trends report, Baby Boomers anticipated taking four to five leisure trips this year, for which they'll spend roughly $6,300 in total. And, partaking in authentic, local experiences garners the interest of about half of international baby boomer travelers. Plus, 79% of Boomers preferred renting private homes over a hotel, thanks to the additional amenities offered in homes and the option to save money because they're less expensive.
