If you think the younger Gen Zs are all about social media and frappuccinos, you might just be wrong.

According to Airbnb, Gen Zs are really into traveling, specifically sustainable tourism, one that leaves a positive impact either to the environment, society or even the economy.       

Photo: Airbnb

Global hospitality marketplace Airbnb announced that Gen Z guests comprise its fastest growing guest segment for Airbnb Experiences in Malaysia and Asia Pacific with guest bookings growing more than three times year-over-year.

These experiences by Gen Z guests in Malaysia include ecotourism adventures, such as jungle trekking or swimming in rainforest waterfalls.

Photo: Airbnb

Searching for Kuala Lumpur’s hidden night view or having a taste of traditional Malay street food.

Photo: Airbnb

Some are even keen on embarking on cultural and learning experiences such as living in Orang Asli Kampungs or exploring Kampung Baru, the traditional Malay village right in the heart of KL.

Photo: Airbnb

Parin Mehta, Managing Director for Airbnb Experiences, Asia Pacific said that “Travelers today want unique, memorable experiences and that’s what we deliver. The rapid growth of Gen Zs booking Airbnb Experiences reflects how this new generation actively seeks a different form of travel,”

“Gen Zs are driven by a new experience-led economy where they place greater value on experiences over ownership. They are also travelling more than the generations before them and finding ways to make travel a significant part of their lifestyle.” he added

To cater to this growing population of “woke” Gen Z travellers, Airbnb launched three new Experiences categories this year alone, expanding its unrivalled collection with Airbnb Adventures, Airbnb Animal Experiences, and Airbnb Cooking Experiences.

For those interested in exploring what real Malaysia has to offer, Airbnb also has a line-up of one-of-a-kind Airbnb Experiences across Malaysia such as:

• Amazing Jungle Experience with Mowgli where travellers can indulge in an energetic jungle experiencewith waterfalls, wild animals and stunning views deep within a tropical jungle.
• Walk With Nature and Stay Fit in Tanjung Bungah, Penang where travellers will embark on a 1.5 hour hike from the Penang National Park office to Kerachut Beach.
• A Portrait Photo Shooting in Georgetown , Penang to learn tips and tricks to pose for the camera and capture your most memorable moments on this tour around Georgetown.
• A Kuala Lumpur InfoFun Walking Tour , from Chinatown to the Central Market to Little India and the Botanical Gardens, to experience firsthand look at temples and historical buildings like no other.
• Last but not least,  discover Malaysia's unique heritage with a 3 in 1 Mosque + Batu Caves + Hill Temple visit to learn its significant in Malaysia’s history and culture.

So, what are you waiting for? Don’t just look at your friend’s Instagram post. Book your unique travelling experience today!

By: Siti Farhana Sheikh Yahya