Travel Industry, News and Analytics

Malaysia Shares Its 2020 Tourist Arrivals Data

Last year was hard for tourism around the world, and the latest data revealed by Malaysia only proves this. After the record year of 2019 and the total number of arrivals exceeding 26 million, Malaysia experienced a rapid drop to only 4.3 million tourist arrivals. Hotels in Kuala Lumpur and other popular destinations had to deal with a huge drop in guests and, of course, revenues.

Malaysia is not the only country that suffered from such a drastic drop in arrivals last year. According to the information published by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the decrease in arrivals in Asia and the Pacific reached 84% in 2020. ASEAN countries had a similar result. The arrivals in Singapore dropped by 85.7%, in Thailand – by 83.2%, in Vietnam and Indonesia - by 78.7% and 75% respectively.

Naturally, such a drastic drop in arrivals had a negative impact on the revenues generated by tourism. If in 2019 total tourist receipts accounted for RM86.14 billion, the 2020 tourist receipts decreased to just RM12.69 billion, featuring a decline of 85.3%. This is slightly more than the decrease in tourist arrivals (-83.4%). Furthermore, the individual per capita expenditures were falling in 2020 compared to 2019. Two years ago the average tourist spending was RM3,300 falling to RM2,928 a year later. This is a decline of 11.3%, which signifies that people are trying to save while traveling and have strict control over their expenditures. This fact is easy to understand as people had their earnings cut as well during the pandemic period.

All markets posted declines in 2020. This is true about the short-haul market where the decline in arrivals reached (83.5%), the medium-haul market (-84.7%), and the long-haul market (-79.7%). International tourists couldn’t visit Malaysia during most of 2020 even if they wanted to do this because the country’s borders closed on 18 March in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

ASEAN countries (short-haul market) were the biggest source market for Malaysia, accounting for 68.1% of tourist arrivals (2.9 million). East Asia and South Asia (medium-haul market) had a share of 20.1% or 870 thousand arrivals, and the long-haul market had the smallest share of 11.8% or 512 thousand arrivals. The top ten source countries for Malaysia are the following: Singapore, Indonesia, China, Thailand, India, Brunei, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Vietnam.

Individual City Guides

Dnepropetrovsk travel guide

Dnipropetrovsk is one of the most beautiful cities in Ukraine. The locals call it simply Dnieper, since the city is located in the central part of the country, just on the bank of the river with the same name. It is an industrial city with a rich history. The earliest fortification settlements were founded on this territory in the 16th century, which was due to the insecurity of the southern borders of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. As known, then the Taurian steppes freely moved the Tatar … Read further

Cuisine of Texas

The Cowboy State is one of the major agricultural centers of the country. Locals consider cattle raising not just the only mean of livelihood, but a real family affair. Local food is very hearty and simple; the basis of Texas menu consists of meat treats. Meat cooked over an open fire or in a pot is a typical example of the national food. To complement juicy steak, hearty and nutritious side dishes of potatoes, beans and seasonal vegetables are served. Barbecue restaurants are common in major … Read further

Traditions and festivals in Krk

Travelers who want to learn a lot about the history and culture of the island of Krk are recommended to visit it in late December. Every year before the start of the New Year, Medieval Festival is held in the capital of the island. Celebrations take part at the central square of the town of Krk, Velika placa. This beautiful festival is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Sveti Stefan. For a few days the city is immersed in a unique medieval atmosphere and you can see the most unusual … Read further

Vladimir cultural sights

Many of the largest historical monuments of Ancient Russia are concentrated in Vladimir. The city literally enchants with its beauty. For many hundreds of years the main symbol of Vladimir remains the Golden Gate, which initially served as a front entrance to the city. In ancient times, the gates were opened exclusively for noble guests, as well as for the royal retinues who returned from the campaigns. Among the main and most important sites of Vladimir you need to mention the Assumption … Read further

Long Bay attractions and entertainment

Long Bay is famous for its gorgeous beaches, which remain the main attractions for tourists. They are perfectly suitable for both serene rest and water sports. The resort offers several excellent sports centers. Around Long Bay, there are many amazing natural sights, which can help tourists diversify their vacations. An interesting object is the Devil’s Bridge - a beautiful rocky arch located off the coast. Absolutely everyone can take a walk on it and admire the seascapes. Many dramatic … Read further

Colombo for families and kids

Colombo will please holidaymakers with children with its variety of entertainment. They should definitely visit the entertainment complex, Excel World Entertainment Park. In this indoor entertainment center, there is an excellent bowling alley, game halls with slot machines and playgrounds, cozy cafes and shops designed for children. In the adjacent territory of the center, there are colorful carousels and equipped playgrounds for the youngest. You can comfortably relax and have fun in this … Read further

Shopping in Corfu island

On Corfu, you can buy comfortable, practical and affordable clothes from well-known brands as well as local goods and souvenirs. The boutiques are located in Kerkira. Here you should pay attention to Atrapos, Fetich Fashion, and Marks&Spencer. At Marks&Spencer the discounts can reach 70% during the sales, and the clothes, shoes, and accessories are of a very good quality. Are you looking for a nice dress? Then Scandalo is the place to go. Do you dream of a new fur coat from Corfu? Ricco Furs and … Read further

Extreme and fun in Los Gigantes

Descent into the Masca Gorge. The Masca Gorge is located 18 kilometers from Los Gigantes. The village of the same name is located here. You can get here by car in about half an hour along the mountain serpentine. You will be able to go down the gorge with a guide or on your own. You will feel the unity with nature and admire the picturesque landscape of black and green color. You will also have a chance to test your strength and endurance. You will have to move along the slippery and … Read further