Stories by Leong Siok Hui

The year 2009 was a good one for avid travellers. Of course, some of us were a little restrained by the wobbly economy and the health scares. But the plunging air fares, hotel rates and value-for-money tours were just too good to pass up.

In any case, those of us on a budget switched to exploring our own backyard. The plus side? We got to see Asia with fresh eyes.

So what does the crystal ball augur for 2010? Can travel industry folks brave the Year of the Tiger with cautious optimism? And are travellers going to enjoy even better deals?

“If 2009 was ‘The Year of the Deal’, 2010 will be ‘The Year of Value’,” says travel analyst Yeoh Siew Hoon.

“Travellers will continue seeking value, not only in terms of price and benefits, but in terms of travel experience. These could range from voluntourism (volunteer holidays) and green travel to specific activity-based holidays.”

The Singapore-based travel editor says three things will define the scene in Asia: low cost, Asia and value.               

“Low-cost airlines will dominate and continue to drive deals and change the way people live, work and play in Asia,” explains the Penang-born Malaysian with 25 years of experience in travel writing.

“It’s now possible to work in Singapore and live in Kuala Lumpur, for example, and commute to work, depending on the nature of your work and your income.”

Asia will be the main playground of Asians as new routes are being opened up by low-cost airlines such as Firefly, Yeoh adds.