Asia’s Travel Surge: Agoda’s Insights on Localisation and AI in Hospitality
TDM interviews Romain Christodoulou, Vice President, Supply at Agoda
2025 witnessed an unprecedented transformation in the travel sector, with Asia at the forefront of both innovation and demand, creating opportunities for global travelers to discover its famed sites and hidden gems.
The crux of any vacation experience lies in a quality hotel. As the allure of the region grows, the time is right for Asian hoteliers to seize the opportunity.
TDM: “How does localisation enhance hotel competitiveness, and why is it essential to tailor services according to local payment preferences and cultural contexts in Asia?”
Romain Christodoulou: “Localisation is crucial for competitiveness. It’s not just a convenience but vital for conversion. Every market in Asia has its unique cultural, economic, and regulatory traits—like the integration of e-wallets in Southeast Asia. Hotels that adapt their offerings accordingly witness better conversion rates and customer loyalty. Our report shows that engaging in localisation can lead to improved guest satisfaction and higher repeat bookings.”
TDM: “How is AI reshaping hotel partnerships and operations? Can you provide examples of AI tools enhancing service quality?”
RC: “AI is changing the travel planning process significantly. 77% of travelers from India and China express readiness to utilize AI for trip management. At Agoda, we leverage AI for easy accommodation discovery, while AI-enhanced tools improve partner offerings and streamline support interactions, thus boosting operational efficiency.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Agoda’s strategy focuses on continued investment in localisation and strengthening cooperation with local partners to capture the emerging travel opportunities strategically.
Key travel trends for 2026: Localisation remains vital. Tailoring to local preferences positions hotels to meet growing demand effectively. Advanced digital visibility, localised content, and curated experiences will bolster competitiveness, especially in secondary destinations.
In summary, adapting to the evolving travel landscape, where AI plays a central role, will provide hotels with a distinct advantage in enhancing guest satisfaction and operational efficacy.
