In 2007 Malaysia celebrates 50 years of independence, and the tourism board has a host of activities for travelers -- from music festivals to international sporting events and big nationwide sales -- that will showcase the country to the world. August will be the most exciting month, with a weeklong international fireworks competition and a lion dance exhibition leading up to Malaysia's Independence Day celebrations on August 31, with parades, outdoor fairs, concerts, and fireworks. Also in 2007, The Eye on Malaysia, a 60m (197-ft.) Ferris wheel with views over Kuala Lumpur, will open in its Lake Gardens location. Visit www.virtualmalaysia.com to find out what else in on during your stay.
Malaysia's budget carrier AirAsia, which offers some of the cheapest airfares around the country and the region, is teaming up with Virgin Atlantic and EasyJet to introduce the world's first low-cost long-haul flights. Starting July 2007, the airline is planning to offer trips between Kuala Lumpur and London for as low as half the price you'd pay on a normal carrier. The deal will also give AirAsia's partners access to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), creating a nice Asian hub for their operations as well. AirAsia also plans to offer RM100 (US$28/£14) flights to China.
The move will pave the way for Malaysia's KLIA to become a coveted gateway for budget flights from around the world into Southeast Asia and within the Asia Pacific Region.
