The global youth tourism market continues to expand as a result of young people travelling more frequently, more widely and more independently. In 2007 there was a worldwide market of an estimated 180 million international youth tourism trips a year, compared with
about 160 million in 2005. This market growth has created an increased demand for youth accommodation, and stimulated the development of new forms of accommodation. We are also seeing a growth in professionalisation and commercialisation which is driving
convergence between Youth Travel Accommodation (YTA) providers and other sectors of the accommodation market, particularly budget hotels.

This first ever benchmark study was commissioned by the former Sector Association STAY WYSE, in order to provide an initial review of the business operations of the Youth Travel Accommodation sector, and to establish crucial business metrics and trends in this dynamic sector.