Core Viewpoint - The outbound group travel market is experiencing a significant decline, with many travel agencies reporting drastically reduced bookings for the National Day holiday compared to previous years [4][10]. Group 1: Current Market Situation - Travel agencies specializing in outbound group tours are facing a "cliff-like" drop in customer interest, with some agencies reporting as few as 18 participants for the entire holiday period [8][10]. - The traditional customer base for group tours, characterized by a lack of destination knowledge and a preference for guided experiences, is becoming increasingly difficult to engage, as many have either been over-consumed or lack the financial means to travel [9][10]. Group 2: Changing Consumer Preferences - Despite an overall increase in flight bookings and hotel searches for outbound travel, the demand for traditional bus group tours is waning [12][14]. - Today's travelers, particularly younger and middle-class individuals, are seeking more personalized, in-depth travel experiences rather than the rushed itineraries typical of bus tours [15][19][30]. Group 3: Industry Trends and Future Directions - Data indicates a growing trend towards independent travel, with a significant portion of outbound tourists opting for individual services rather than full-package tours [33][35]. - The travel industry is witnessing a shift from large group tours to smaller, customized, and themed travel experiences, as agencies adapt to changing consumer demands [42][46]. - The need for travel agencies to evolve from traditional models to meet the fragmented needs of modern travelers is critical for survival in the current market landscape [45][46].

Group 1 - The core sentiment among outbound tour operators during the National Day holiday is one of significant decline in customer interest, with many reporting extremely low booking numbers compared to previous years [1][5][6] - Operators like Xiao Wei from a well-known travel agency in Yunnan reported only 18 participants for the entire holiday, a stark contrast to previous years where bookings were robust [6][10] - The traditional large bus tour model is facing challenges as the target demographic has been over-consumed or lacks the financial capability to participate, leading to a decline in interest for these types of tours [9][10] Group 2 - Despite a general increase in travel interest, as indicated by a 16% rise in flight bookings and a 40% increase in hotel search interest for outbound travel, large bus tours are not benefiting from this trend [11][12][15] - The shift in traveler preferences towards smaller, more personalized travel experiences is evident, as younger and middle-class travelers seek deeper engagement rather than the superficial experiences offered by traditional bus tours [17][32] - The travel industry is witnessing a transformation where the demand for group tours is declining, and the preference for independent travel and customized experiences is on the rise [36][41] Group 3 - The travel agency sector is experiencing a shift from being comprehensive trip planners to providing specific services, indicating a loss of traditional value in the eyes of consumers [40][49] - The trend towards smaller, boutique, and customized tours is accelerating, with some agencies successfully pivoting away from large group tours to meet changing consumer demands [44][50] - The future of outbound travel agencies will depend on their ability to adapt to fragmented travel needs and provide tailored solutions, or risk being left behind as consumer preferences evolve [51][52]