Connectivity and Social Media Influencing Travel Trends

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Vice President Organization & Inter Institution of the Indonesian Travel Agent Association (ASTINDO), Anton N. Sumarli, highlighted several factors influencing travel trends, one of which is connectivity to the destination country.

“For example, some countries are planning to hold exhibitions and other events, but due to poor connectivity and high prices, people are less likely to visit,” said Anton during a media gathering for the “Korea Hybrid Travel Fair 2026” in Jakarta, on Friday.

Anton explained that travel trends can change depending on which countries are actively promoting themselves. This is evident in various tourism promotion activities, including the Astindo Travel Fair. In addition, social media is also considered to have an influence in shaping travel trends.

“The trends change depending on how many countries are promoting themselves. Also, it depends on what is currently trending on social media. That’s what becomes the trend,” he said.

“Most of the trends are still towards international destinations. Japan is still number one. Then Taipei, Taiwan, Korea, and China are also popular,” he added.

Anton said that the number of Indonesian tourists visiting South Korea has also increased. According to ASTINDO data, South Korea is one of the top five destinations, based on the travel exhibitions they have held.

According to Anton, the increase in the number of Indonesian tourists to South Korea is also driven by the cultural proximity between the two countries.

“We are optimistic that we will see even more growth. The number of visitors to South Korea will increase in the future because we have many programs in place,” he said.