Agoda CEO: 'The travel landscape is transforming at an unprecedented pace - and Asia is at the forefront of emerging trends'

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Agoda CEO’s statement and the insights from the recently released 2026 Travel Outlook Report

CEO’s Perspective
Omri Morgenshtern, CEO of Agoda, emphasized that:
- The travel landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace.
- Asia is leading this transformation, driven by emerging markets, new destinations, and rapid adoption of technology.
- The industry is entering a new era of travel, marked by innovation and reduced friction for travelers.

Infrastructure Expansion:
- Airlines in Asia Pacific are set to receive 615 new aircraft in 2026, boosting connectivity.
- Improved visa processes and expanded flight routes are making travel smoother.

Technology Integration:
- AI is converging travel services, offering inspiration and simplifying bookings.
- Digital finance and smart platforms are reducing barriers for travelers.

Traveler Preferences:
- Price remains a critical factor in accommodation choices.
- Secondary destinations are gaining popularity for authentic cultural experiences.
- Experiential travel (concerts, food trips, immersive activities) is becoming mainstream.

Industry Outlook:
- Stakeholders must remain agile and tech-savvy to meet evolving traveler expectations.
- Focus on memorable experiences rather than just destinations.

Why Asia is at the Forefront
- Rapidly growing middle-class populations with rising disposable incomes.
- Strong government support for tourism infrastructure.
- Diverse cultural and natural attractions appealing to global travelers.
- Early adoption of digital tools and AI-driven travel solutions.