http://www.finalfantasy.net/xiv/letter-ffxiv-producer-live-episode-iii/
Q: Will players be able to go to new areas such as Sharlayan, Ala Mhigo, Garlean Empire, and Ishgard? Also, will there be new areas introduced?
A: As far as Ala Mhigo and Ishgard goes, they won’t be available immediately at launch. All the areas will be revamped in ARR so you can consider all the areas “new.†You’ll see new settlements, monsters, and dungeons. Also, the dungeons will be three times the size that they are now. If we introduce Ishgard and make further changes to the current nations, it will take another year to launch the game… Furthermore, Ishgard and Ala Mhigo areas will be introduced in order. Stay tuned!