With movement restrictions gradually easing, Malaysians are looking forward to resuming travel in the coming months and these are their choice destinations
After an extended period MCO, CMCO, RMCO, and lots of social distancing, many are no doubt eager for a getaway with their loved ones.
Airbnb’s recent Meaningful Travel Trends Survey 2021 found that Malaysians want to travel with family and friends, enjoy slower-paced holidays, and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations closer to nature when travel resumes. Notably, Penang has emerged as the most popular go-to holiday destination within Malaysia among survey respondents, followed by Sabah, Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu and Johor.
Read more: CMCO & RMCO In Malaysia To Be Reinstated: Here’s What It Means
According to internal data, Airbnb guests globally are also looking for listings that allow them to live and work anywhere. Wireless internet is the fourth top-searched amenity when guests search for Airbnb Stays, while searches for gardens and backyards increased by 343 per cent after the Covid-19 pandemic began. Listings with basic cooking amenities are also now booked more frequently by guests.
“We believe that travel is resilient and will bounce back once restrictions have lifted. Travel will look different than before the pandemic, as Malaysians begin seeking more personal and meaningful vacations to reconnect with their loved ones. The Covid-19 pandemic and Movement Control Order (MCO) have meant that Malaysians have spent a significant amount of time apart from family and friends," said Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb's general manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
"Once travel reopens, we believe Malaysians’ desire to spend time together with those closest to them in familiar, calming destinations that are close to nature will serve as the driving force for domestic tourism recovery,” he added.
See also: Malaysia’s Covid-19 Vaccine Programme: Phase Two Kicks Off April 19
Whether you’re looking for a staycation within your state, or planning an upcoming holiday a little further from home as the easing of travel restrictions permit, here are unique Airbnb stays across Malaysia’s top five domestic travel destinations for your travel inspiration.