Steven Ler, president of NATAS, sheds light on Singaporean travellers' top destinations and the importance of technology for travel agents' success.

In the wake of a recovering travel industry, Singaporean travellers are eagerly embarking on their long-awaited journeys. Shedding light on the preferred destinations among these travelers and recognising the evolving landscape of travel experiences is Steven Ler, the President of NATAS (National Association of Travel Agents Singapore).

Singaporeans' top 5 destinations

1. Japan
2. Thailand
3. Indonesia
4. South Korea
5. United States

According to NATAS, the top five destinations among Singaporean travellers are Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, and the United States. While these destinations have seen an increase in search demand, the volume of Singaporean travellers heading to Japan is expected to double from September to December 2023. This indicates a strong desire among Singaporeans to continue explore Japan's unique offerings.

What’s hot and trendy

Travellers from Singapore are increasingly inclined towards advanced search and purchase behavior, with more individuals buying tickets well in advance, up to 180 days before their travel dates. However, the majority of travellers still tend to make their purchases at least one week prior to departure.

The distribution of travellers between packaged tours, FIT (Free Independent Travel) tours, and cruises varies depending on the destination. While FIT tours are more common in Southeast Asia, long-haul destinations like Europe, the US, Japan, and Korea see a higher preference for group tours. Younger individuals, as young as 20 years old, now contribute to 15% of the market, indicating a shift in the demographics of buyers.

Cruises on the rise

The post-Covid era has witnessed a strengthening trend towards cruises, with more people venturing into this type of travel. NATAS Fair 2023 showcased significant interest in cruises, with bookings extending as far as 2025 and many cruises for 2023 already sold out.

The age group of cruise travellers has become younger, creating opportunities for multigenerational families to spend quality time together. Access to cruise experiences has become easier, and travellers are willing to invest in more premium options as they have saved up during the pandemic. However, it's important to note that costs have increased by around 30-40%, and early planning is crucial to secure holiday bookings, especially during busy periods.

Exclusive experiences

Travellers now seek exclusive and hidden treasures in their travel experiences. In Japan, for example, there is a growing interest in secret access to unique locations that are not widely publicised.

These hidden gems require insider knowledge and connections to gain entry. Exclusive experiences like dining at the Louis Vuitton Osaka café can come at a premium, with costs averaging around US$2000 per person. Such experiences cater to travellers looking for personalised and extraordinary adventures.

Digital adoption scorecard

While technology in the travel industry holds immense potential, the costs and complexities associated with its adoption can be daunting for smaller agencies. Recognising these challenges, NATAS has partnered with Amadeus, a global technology provider, to offer a common platform that minimises investment risks and supports digital growth for all travel agents.

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