I remember the distinct lack of XP back in ARR. Getting to Coerthas and then being blocked from continuing the MSQ until you go up several levels, rinse and repeat until you hit level 50. Today's environment is much better.

The OP's test was a bit of a setup though. Getting 230% XP while questing is bound to get you well into your 50s before you hit level 30 content. It has been that way since the "Road to 60" and "Road to 70" first become available ... albeit more like 10+ levels rather than 20+ levels. It's a great time to use those side-quests to level another job (or three).