The top three things some Malaysians are most looking forward to do after months of restrictions are: seeing family and friends, not wearing a mask and yes, travelling.

Travel is on the agenda for 34% of folks surveyed in the Agoda Return to Travel Survey, with 18% most looking forward to international travel and 16% of respondents keen on domestic tourism.

More than a quarter of Malaysians surveyed plan to travel within a month of restrictions easing, with 48% planning a trip within four months.

Meanwhile, more than two-thirds of them will take their first trip with their immediate family, or with family and friends as lockdown measures ease.

“It is naturally understandable that travelling with family would be a huge priority once we return to a semblance of normalcy following the pandemic. For most of last year, family communications have been limited to voice or video calls,” said Agoda vice president (partner services) Errol Cooke.

He added that travel will be an important tool to build relationships again after months of separation.

“Travelling is one great way to reconcile that void, as families look to travel to make up for missed birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and other significant life milestones,” he said.

The survey, which was conducted in May this year, polled 1,107 adults in Malaysia.

Difference in travel preference was highlighted among the different generational demographics with those aged 18 to 24 and 35 to 44 more inclined to choose domestic over international travel (16% and 19% vs 12% and 17% respectively).

Those aged 45 to 54 and 55 and above have a strong desire to get out of the country with both groups citing international travel as the second thing they most look forward to when the pandemic ends, following seeing family and friends.

Beach and coastal destinations are the top picks among most age groups except for those over 55 who are the least likely to choose it as the first post-pandemic holiday.

Instead, Malaysians aged 55+ prefer countryside getaways and nature pursuits possibly to avoid cities or famous landmarks which are more likely to be flocked by tourists.

What’s for certain is that the pandemic has changed people’s attitudes towards travel.

“Covid-19 has shifted the way we travel. Attitudes to how, why and where we travel changed over the past 18 months through both choice and necessity,” Cooke said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2021/09/10/travel-among-top-3-things-malaysians-want-to-do-after-months-of-lockdown