Top News

Tourists from Asia increasingly prioritize sustainable travel in 2026
Samira Vishwas | March 20, 2026 2:24 PM CST

Thailand leads the region on sustainability, with 95% of travelers saying it will play a crucial role in their travel plans for 2026, according to Agoda’s February survey of 1,036 participants across eight Asian markets.

Other markets also rank highly, including Indonesia (93%), India (88%), Malaysia (88%) and Taiwan (83%).

As travelers place greater emphasis on sustainability, their motivations extend beyond environmental concerns.

The survey found that the top driver is ensuring travel spending benefits local communities, cited by 29% of respondents. This is followed by 28% who seek deeper connections with destinations, and 27% who prioritize preserving natural landscapes and wildlife, Agoda said.

The survey also found that 48% of travelers are choosing to travel during off-peak seasons to reduce overcrowding, making it the most common action taken to travel more sustainably.

Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia are implementing sustainable tourism strategies aimed at minimizing environmental impact, preserving culture, and supporting local communities.

Key approaches include developing “green tourism,” promoting innovation in services and committing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through national tourism plans.


READ NEXT
Cancel OK