(Image source: Traveldiscountcode.co.uk)

(Image source: Itats.org)

While the idea of going on a vacation remains the same, the travel experience have definitely changed quite a bit as compared to two decades ago. It moved so subtly that most of us don’t realised the difference. Most of us younger traveller may not understand this but those who used to travel often twenty years ago will probably nod and agree with what I’m about to say.

#1 We used to rely on travel agencies but now is DIY.

Planning used to be done heavily with a travel, especially when it comes to designing itinerary, booking airline tickets, accommodations and visas. Today, we do all those ourselves.

#2 Guidebooks vs World Wide Web.

Oh yes, guidebooks such as Lonely Planet were once crucial when you travel. These books offered personal testimonials from seasoned travel writers and information about your destination. Even though now, there are still a few who likes the smell of hardcopy guides, you can’t denied the fact that most of us have already turned to sites such as TripAdvisor, blogs and Google Maps for information, planning and tips.

#3 It’s much more compact now.

Twenty years ago, you will need to bring along air tickets, pre-purchased vouchers, travel cheques, and a heavy carry-on bag with Walkman or Discman, CDs or cassettes, travel journal and etc. The load is so much lighter now since most stuff can be stored in our tablets or smartphones. Technology is awesome isn’t it?

#4 Surprisingly, some people think that traveling used to be much more comfortable.

Apparently, airport security was a brief back then. Metal cutleries were used and bags of generously filled toiletries were given to all passengers to keep them comfortable during the flight. Now, we are stuck with limitations on things we can and cannot bring on board. Thanks to “Everyone can fly” tagline, airlines have had to dramatically reduce their services to stay afloat.

#5 Calling home is no longer a problem.

Two decades ago, if you wish to call home, it can only be done at an International Telecommunications Exchange and dialling the home operator was a tedious task with no guarantees that it will get through. These days, all we need to stop by upon arrival is a local SIM card available just as you walk out the departure hall. Temporary local Internet makes it easy for you to Skype, Facetime, Whatsapp your family just to inform them that you have arrived safely.

Editor JQ Lee talks and writes for a living. That's because she loves sharing interesting things to the world. With a Degree in Communication and Media Management, this petite Gen-Y will not stop chasing her passion in writing and broadcasting. She dreams to host a travel show and be a radio announcer someday, hopefully soon. Stalk this wacky fair Asian girl at www.jqtalks.com, Instagram and Twitter (@jqleejq)