In 2023, Individuals' Preference for Virtual Experiences Expected to Substantially Impact Real-World Travel Decisions: New Survey Reveals

An extensive survey of 24,179 participants spread across 32 countries has revealed that an astonishing 43% are inclined to employ virtual reality in order to influence their decisions.

Following long-term COVID-19 travel restrictions, as borders start to reopen, Booking.com’s new survey unveils that the metaverse could be a great aid for tourists in selecting their desired destinations to visit physically.

According to a survey done by renowned online travel agency Booking.com, which surveyed 24,179 individuals across 32 countries and revealed travelers’ keen interest in virtually exploring destinations when deciding on where to go for their next trip; the most likely group of people that would explore travel experiences through virtual reality were from Gen Z (45%) followed closely by Millennials (43%).

An impressive 43% of survey respondents stated that they would utilize virtual reality to influence their decisions when it comes to travel. Among this subset, an astounding 4574 people have indicated that they will only consider visiting a new place once they’ve had the chance to experience it virtually first.

Additionally, more than one-third of those surveyed are willing to spend multiple days in the virtual world to become familiar with its varied attractions. Booking.com believes that incorporating haptic feedback technologies will make this experience even better by allowing users to enjoy a sunny beach or tropical sun without leaving their home!

Despite the fact that 60% of those surveyed think the Virtual Metaverse cannot compare to reality, some of next year’s most promising destinations are São Paulo (Brazil), Pondicherry (India), Hobart (Australia) and Bolzano (Italy).

Microsoft’s goal of expanding into the metaverse market was hindered when the FTC attempted to obstruct their desired takeover of Activision Blizzard.

Microsoft CEO and chairman Satya Nadella had high hopes for the potential of an Activision Blizzard acquisition, explaining it would serve as a “key role in the evolution of metaverse platforms.” Unfortunately, due to its anti-competitive practices – such as limiting distribution of console games after acquiring rival gaming companies – The Federal Trade Commission quickly stepped in to shut down this $69 billion deal.