Not until chains and natalan came around, it actually took quite a while before then.
Printable View
Abyssea wasn't always there. I remember it taking me nearly a year to reach 75 for my very first time. :d
I've been leveling Blue Mage outside of abyssea lately, and I have to say it's a lot more enjoyable than the burn, if a bit slow. I welcome this double exp. Doubles the reason that I don't have to go through a maw.