You may have seen headlines talking about Gen Z this or Gen Z that – there’s simply so much to know about this incredibly savvy generation. Born between the late 1990s to the early 2000s, you might associate them with the wonders of social media and possibly, the short-form video platform TikTok. Zoomers are the first generation to grow up in the digital age, surrounded by technology and its ever-evolving gadgets.
Z for Zoomers?
Ranging in age from 10 to 25, Generation Z is the next official demographic after millennials, making up about 2 billion of the world’s population.
They’re known for being independent, entrepreneurial and unafraid to speak up on societal issues (think climate change, politics and more). Most importantly, they value carving out their own identities and experiences like once-in-a-lifetime travel over material possessions.
Born between 1997 and 2010, Zoomers, as Gen Z is often known, are go-getters who don’t confine themselves to the rules and this applies to the way they travel too. They want the unknown, off-the-beaten-path experience that isn’t just what you see on other social media feeds. They’re getting their information from TikTok or Instagram over Google and they’re wanting a unique outing that’ll feel like an authentic experience of a city or location.
Often, Zoomers are the first to choose unconventional career paths, like being their own boss over working a 9 to 5 job. As travel agents, you’ve probably encountered more of them as digital nomads, people who travel freely and work remotely so they can truly enjoy a location for weeks or months on end. They’re all about ditching traditions and carving out a lifestyle that works for them, not the other way around.
It’s about the location
If you’re choosing to stay in a country for a longer period of time, there are certain accommodation choices that simply make sense. While millennials might prefer to use a hotel, Zoomers might want a longer-term accommodation option where they can cook meals, walk about the city and engage with the space they’re in.
Here are some key accommodation factors:
Being central to the city for nightlife
Close proximity to cafes and other co-working spaces
Having easy access to public transportation or e-hailing services
Having enough power points like plugs or reliable electricity
Making sure that there’s speedy WiFi
Enough space in the accommodation to have a remote working spot
Being close enough to landmarks, beaches and nature reserves
Budget-friendly options are key
Bonus part: adding in little extras to customise the deal
While these are notable points, it can be tough to find accommodation offerings that tick all of these boxes. For travel agents, time is money (literally!) and who has the time to spare to vet multiple accommodation spots? Luckily, Global Accommodation has access to over 930 000 properties around the world, which is more than enough choice for even the most discerning client.
Choice and budget are crucial factors for Gen Z travellers, they’ve been exposed to multiple forms of media since childhood and won’t settle for the usual. Global Accommodation can help travel agents find that niche boutique hotel or unconventional bed and breakfast that offers a more intimate and personalised experience for your Zoomer clients. Most importantly, they want an option that works with their budgets and long term goals.
Authenticity is a big selling point for Gen Z, and with decades of experience in the travel industry Global Accommodation has established long-term professional relationships with premium service providers. This means access to accommodation spots who have done business in the heart of a bustling city, who have been serving the community for years and know where the locals go. Don’t go through the hassle of calling multiple suppliers to find the best. Offer your clients an off the beaten track experience, whether it’s long term or short term.
Learn more about Global Accommodation and their customised travel experiences and accommodation options here
