Tourism will never be the same. The unprecedented pandemic in 2020 brought travel and tourism to a complete standstill, and its lingering effects are still felt up to today. Indeed, the road to recovery will not be a smooth sailing ride. We need the agility to proactively adapt to the ever-evolving new normal. More significantly, travel habits have evolved. Travel behaviour has shifted. Travel inclinations have adjusted to adapt to the new world we live in today. Before the pandemic, there was a stronger appetite for exotic journeys and exploring a whole new unfamiliar world of sights and sounds. The excitement of deep diving into the uncharted territory of unusual cuisines, unique communities and uncommon cultural practices. An unending passion to fly to the furthermost parts of the earth to explore the unexplored; avoiding touristy and crowded destinations at all costs. Yet, travel experts are observing an evolving trend in the post-pandemic era. With international travel resuming, many more are opting for comfortable and conventional destinations instead. In other words, a stronger preference for ‘comfort travel’ to closer and more accustomed destinations, as compared to ‘challenge travel’. Several factors account for this growing trend. First, significant parts of the world, especially the least developed nations have not fully transitioned from the pandemic to the endemic phase, with much lower vaccination rates. Owing to growing inhibitions against the risk of contracting the virus in addition to the lack of sufficient safety measures, many would rather travel to a familiar destination. Second, a significant number of countries still impose certain travel restrictions, which leads to more hassle when planning a trip. As such, it is just easier to choose a neighbouring country with similar and familiar guidelines. Third, the transition toward working from home arrangements has indirectly led to an increased preference to stay in one’s comfort zone. This then is translated into one’s travel behaviour, where people are less inclined to forage beyond the familiar. With this new trend, Malaysia is ready to step up and seize the opportunities of a growing demand for comfort travel. In fact, our nation’s tourism industry thrives on the promise of premium yet affordable top-class hospitality. From grand luxury international hotels to trendy charming boutique stays, the comfort of our guests is our top priority. We are more than willing to go the second mile for travellers from all over the world. Moreover, the world-renowned warmth and friendliness of Malaysians will make every traveller feel right at home! As a melting pot of cultures with Asia’s three major races and many culturally rich indigenous people groups, people from all over the world will be able to fit right into our country’s unique diversity. With our signature ‘Apa Khabar?’ to our cheerful ‘Rasa Sayang’ folksong, travellers will certainly feel welcomed, loved and cared for in our beautiful country. Founded upon tolerance and acceptance, our multi-cultural and multi-religious society is indeed a microcosm of Asia. It is no wonder that many have chosen Malaysia as their second home. Furthermore, our multi-lingual community bridges the language barrier, whereby travellers can communicate comfortably. Hence, familiarity is never an issue here. In terms of flights, Malaysia is well-connected with direct flights to almost all major cities in Asia. Thus, inbound travel is a breeze with the minimal hassle of connecting flights. In addition, inbound travellers will no longer need to fill in the Traveller’s Card or conduct a pre-departure test and on-arrival test or even undergo a home surveillance order or quarantine, since the 1st of August 2022. This eases the entry procedure, for the best comfort of our guests. However, rest assured that the monitoring of travellers’ health symptoms at all international points of entry into Malaysia will be continued, as we seek to strike a balance between the comfort and safety of all our guests. And, our Food! Malaysia is widely known as a ‘Food Paradise’, with a diversity of delightful and delectable food at reasonable prices. Be it Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sarawakian or Sabahan food, Malaysia’s mouth-watering tapestry of flavours is certainly palatable, even to the less adventurous. Yet for those thrill-seekers hunting for exotic destinations, Malaysia still has the best of the untouched and unchartered destinations to offer! Take, for instance, a chance meeting with the elusive Tapirs at Gunung Tahan Pahang, exploring the Jurassic world of Sarawak at Bengoh Dam, trekking at ‘Lost World of Sabah’ Maliau Basin or experiencing Pulau Sembilan’s ‘blue tears’ luminescent plankton in Perak and the list goes on and on. In terms of flights, Malaysia is well-connected with direct flights to almost all major cities in Asia. Thus, inbound travel is a breeze with the minimal hassle of connecting flights. In addition, inbound travellers will no longer need to fill in the Traveller’s Card or conduct a pre-departure test and on-arrival test or even undergo a home surveillance order or quarantine, since the 1st of August 2022. This eases the entry procedure, for the best comfort of our guests. However, rest assured that the monitoring of travellers’ health symptoms at all international points of entry into Malaysia will be continued, as we seek to strike a balance between the comfort and safety of all our guests. And, our Food! Malaysia is widely known as a ‘Food Paradise’, with a diversity of delightful and delectable food at reasonable prices. Be it Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sarawakian or Sabahan food, Malaysia’s mouth-watering tapestry of flavours is certainly palatable, even to the less adventurous. Yet for those thrill-seekers hunting for exotic destinations, Malaysia still has the best of the untouched and unchartered destinations to offer! Take, for instance, a chance meeting with the elusive Tapirs at Gunung Tahan Pahang, exploring the Jurassic world of Sarawak at Bengoh Dam, trekking at ‘Lost World of Sabah’ Maliau Basin or experiencing Pulau Sembilan’s ‘blue tears’ luminescent plankton in Perak and the list goes on and on. There are also so many hidden gems and off-the-beaten paths for those seeking a fresh experience. From charming small towns such as the Kelantanese-Thai influenced Tumpat, to Muar – a foodie Paradise and so many more, travellers will be spoilt for choice. For the culinary adventurous, why not try Sago Worms, Fried Grasshoppers or even Torpedo Soup? Overall, Malaysia has the best to offer for all kinds of travellers seeking a diverse range of experiences. Indeed, the best of both worlds – those seeking comfort or those seeking a challenge. As our borders are now fully opened, we warmly welcome all with open arms and open hearts!