A major survey of travelers in their 30s reveals that slow holidays shared with loved ones are all the rage

By MOOK Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin | Compiled and Reported

A memorable trip can offer unforgettable experiences and memories. It’s likely that travel enthusiasts have already started planning their end-of-year getaways. According to a survey conducted by American Express Taiwan targeting those aged 30 to 40 in Taiwansurveyfound that nearly 90% of respondents consider traveling with loved ones as the most essential element of a perfect trip. Moreover, over half prefer more autonomous travel options such as fully independent travel or flight-plus-hotel packages, indicating that slow holidays free from rigid itineraries are gaining popularity among younger generations.

The Ministry of the Interior reports that from January to May this year, Taiwan saw a total of 7.05 million outbound travelers, a 15.73% increase from the same period last year, with those aged 30–39 making up the largest group at 22.57%. According to an American Express survey on the travel preferences and payment habits of Taiwanese in their 30s, 61.5% of respondents take 1–3 trips per year on average, while 38.5% take four or more. Additionally, reflecting on recent travel experiences, the top sources of surprise were breathtaking unseen landscapes, first-time participation in local customs or festivals, and savoring local cuisine—indicating that the emotional and spiritual fulfillment from travel outweighs material aspects.

Furthermore, for 30-somethings who are accustomed to gathering travel information online, 90.2% use credit cards to pay for travel expenses, with online card payments being the primary method of consumption. When asked about travel-related credit card services, overseas travel protection, zero-liability for lost cards / fast replacement, complimentary airport parking, and 24/7 global service with travel consultation ranked as the top four most valued benefits.

In response, American Express offers exclusive services for Platinum and above members—including 24-hour global support and complimentary card replacement—and has partnered with EVA Airways to launch several promotions. For instance, enjoy double travel cashback: for every NT$30 spent on a single transaction on EVA Airways, earn 2 American Express Membership Rewards points, with 1,000 points redeemable for NT$200 in credit card spending. Additionally, regular travel deals will be rolled out, with the first wave featuring three-day-two-night travel packages. Book before December 31st to enjoy deals such as Okinawa packages starting at NT$5,999, or The Venetian Macao and Singapore packages starting at NT$7,777 or NT$16,999.

For domestic travel, there's also an “Stay One Night, Get One Night Free” promotion at eight resort hotels, including Dalaige Hotel at Sun Moon Lake, Mitai Hotel in Xitou, Alishan Guesthouse, Lihpao Land Hotel in Hualien, Yuemei/Kenting/Hualien Farglory Hotel, and Hualien Far Eastern Lai Lai Hotel. There are also four domestic hotels offering special rates of NT$2,500 per night, including Taipei Miramar Garden Hotel, Hsinchu Miramar Hotel, Taipei Huaku Hotel, and Taichung Regent Hotel.

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