Forget the beach, teenagers consider Wi-Fi access to be far more important when they are holidaying

SURFING the web is more important than catching a wave for teens heading off on holidays this festive season.

Marriott Hotel teen concierge Emma Campbell will provide local tips and activity ideas for teenagers and others holidaying on...

SURFING the web is more important than catching a wave for teens heading off on holidays this festive season.

Research conducted by Marriott Australia found 61 per cent of teens considered Wi-Fi access a must when travelling, while only 34 per cent valued having a beach nearby.

The results demonstrate the demand for a proposal put forward by Surfers Paradise Alliance in September for Surfers Paradise to provide locals and tourists with wireless internet access.

Alliance chair Laura Younger said while the proposal was still not confirmed to go ahead, it would make the Glitter Strip the first area on the Coast to offer free public Wi-Fi.

The study comes as the Marriott launch their This City My Way teen concierge program, which sees young people from across the country helping tourists find the must-see places in their area.

Locals Emma Campbell and Chloe Gash, both 16, will be giving young travellers the inside word on what to see and do on the Gold Coast, with Chloe saying she was not surprised staying online was vital while on holidays.
"I can admit wherever I go on holidays I always check if there's free Wi-Fi ... I guess it's just on of those things us teenagers are used to doing now," she said.

" However, I am a firm believer in taking in your surroundings and actually getting in and taking part in activities, so if that means you have to turn off your phone for a whole day so you can go paddle boarding then so be it."

Burleigh Heads resident Emma agreed, saying it was important for teenagers to share their holidays online.

"I think being able to stay in touch with friends and share what you are seeing and doing is important, but you have to balance that with going out and interacting with others," she said.

As teen concierges Emma said the pair wrote regular posts online to share the hidden secrets of the Gold Coast.

"My job entails giving travel advice digitally for an audience of teens travelling and adults travelling with teens," she said.

"I give them the inside locals guided on the Gold Coast's hidden gems because while the mainstream Gold Coast activities such as theme parks are fantastic I think it's also important to venture out to the suburbs where you can find some great views and pristine beaches."

To read more about the best things to see and do on the Coast visit Thiscitymyway.com.au