There’s been a slight shift in the way Aussies bound for the US are booking their accommodation, according to new research.
A study conducted by Visit USA found more Australians put their faith online last year compared to the prior 12 months.
Of the 81 percent of Aussies who booked their lodging before departure in 2015, the most preferred method of booking was through an OTA, folowed by direct and then a traditional Agent.
This was a slight shift from 2014 when Agents were more popular than direct.
Also different last year were the activities Australians took part in. In addition to shopping, sightseeing and going on tours, hiking was a popular activity amongst three percent more Australians.
US art gallery and museum visits were also up by three percent along with visits to American Indian communities.
Thanks to Brand USA’s big sports push, including an upcoming College Football game between LA and Hawaii in Sydney later this year, three percent more Aussies also attended sporting events last year compared to 2015.
Overall, the number of Australians travelling to the US reached a record high in 2015, with some 1.45 million arrivals, up 11 percent on the prior year.
Despite the rise in Aussie visitors, spending dropped off by 13 percent ,which Visit USA attributed to the low exchange rate and the reduction of airfares.
Over the last three years, the number of first time arrivals decreased from 38 percent to 29 percent, while repeat visitation continues to climb.
