In 1974, Malaysia opened up to us as a charming, friendly destination with comprehensive access to its sprawling countryside alongside Kuala Lumpur's political, social and cultural center. One could take the Malayan Railroad via three-class trains — as an alternative to flying — or take the rail to tour upon arrival. Rail tours included Singapore, Penang and Kuala Lumpur (KL), the capital city. From KL, one could explore the city by night, visit Malacca, Fraser's Hill Resort and Cameron Highlights during the day, and then travel to the east coast during the dry season from May to September. Away from the cities, visitors could venture out and enjoy the country's combination of smooth hills and lush greenery. (Check out the article's page 1 and page 2.)
Thirty-six years later, Malaysia continues to surprise. Since last year, when it ranked among Skytrax's top ten airports, the InterContinental opened up a 473-room hotel in KL, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts opened the Traders Hotel, Puteri Harbour, Iskander, Malaysia, and the country was host to the second annual International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, alongside two golf tournaments, including PGA TOUR's Asia Pacific Golf Classic, Malaysia 2010 and LPGA's Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia. Outside, Eastern Malaysia is a more rural area steeped in tradition, and the historic districts of Georgetown and Malacca were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Cities.
As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, we're taking a look at what was happening in the industry in the past and asking agents to share their thoughts on what has changed in the industry in the present. Please share your thoughts by posting a comment below, writing us at our Facebook page, sending a tweet to our Twitter page or by engaging in a discussion in real time at AgentNation (the only social community online for all kinds of travel agents, which certainly wasn't around 80 years ago). We want to hear from you.
While you're here, learn more about how we're celebrating eight decades of covering the travel industry for travel professionals.