Call The Shots, Zip Your Way To Malaysia by in2it.sg

Why confine yourself to the constraints of a tour group or a restricted schedule of a coach when you can have the luxury of your own transportation where you get to call the shots?

We Singaporeans tend to neglect the gems right next door to us and overspend for a weekend trip when our neighbouring country, Malaysia, has so much to offer. During the upcoming long weekend, you may like to consider taking a road trip to Malaysia and explore our charming neighbour at pocket-friendly cost!

Travelling by your own vehicle offers many advantages. With convenience as a foremost plus point, imagine not having to report at any specific time or place and risk waiting for other latecomers, at your expense! You are free to pace yourself in terms of your length of stay and things to do at any locations that catches your fancy. And the favourable exchange rate! Enough said.

A popular destination that is a mere three to four hours drive from Singapore is Malacca. Immerse in their rich Peranakan and Portuguese culture, Lisbon-style architecture and basically, eat to your heart's content! Visit their "Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum" and "Portuguese Settlement and Portuguese Square" and relive Malacca's golden age! Choose to stay at Bayview Hotel Melaka, if you are a SAFRA member, as you'll get to enjoy a cheaper rate.

Escape the heat at Genting Highlands. Daredevils may want to pit their bravery at some of the gravity-defying rides in the theme parks. For the more prudent ones, there are many family-friendly rides suitable for the young and old. Do visit the casinos and try your luck. You never know when Lady Luck will be smiling at you! Stay cool at Cameron Highlands where tea plantations and strawberry farms offer a much-needed respite from our hectic city living back home. Pluck strawberries to your heart's content and learn the art of tea appreciation.

If you are feeling adventurous and have more time to spare, venture further afield. Adventure seekers should seek out Negeri Sembilan, environmentally-conscious individuals will love eco-friendly Sarawak or simply soak in the natural beauty of Kedah and Sabah!

Malaysia may be similar to Singapore in many ways like the climate, culture and cuisine, thereby giving us a sense of familiarity and assurance when we travel. However, subtle differences like their absolutely fragrant coffee, utterly tender chicken meat and mouthwatering street delights will draw you back to Malaysia time and again!

Planning your very own road trip to Malaysia is as easy as ABC!

Things To Look Out For

1. Surf www.plus.com.my and go through the ideal routes that will bring you to your destination. Also, mark out the designated pit stops where you can refuel, recharge and revitalise and remain fresh at all times behind the wheels!
2. The "Mini Toll Fare Calculator" allows you to know your exact toll charges. Prepare the exact change for each payment to save time. Better yet, if you are a frequent visitor to Malaysia, opt for their "PLUSMiles Loyalty Program" and get rebates! PLUSMiles members also get special privileges at various food outlets and hotels in Malaysia!
3. Endeavour to start your road trip early, preferably in the wee hours of the morning where the cooler air and lesser traffic make for a more pleasant driving experience. So have a good night's sleep.
4. Always make it a point to check out the live view web cam available at OneMotoring before your road trip. Take the second link at Tuas and avoid the jam if need be. The additional toll charges are well-worth if it saves you time waiting in line at the often jam-packed Causeway.
5. Know your vehicle well.
6. Always lock your vehicle once all passengers are inside.
7. It doesn't hurt to equip yourself with a steering wheel lock and use it wherever you park.
8. Maintain a three-quarter full tank when you enter the Malaysian border.
9. If you will be seeking accommodations in Malacca or Genting Highlands, remember being a SAFRA member has its perks!
10. Do check out our Motor Sports Club. They are organising a driveaway to Cameron Highlands from June 4 - 6. Enjoy the rustic surroundings while making new friends. Not to mention the host of other motoring activities lined up for the rest of the year!
11. Bring your favourite CDs and sing-along!

Thinking of having a short trip that won't burn a hole in your wallet? Check out our Travel Club to get the most out of your dollar! Or if you fancy being part of a motor convoy roaring down the highway, join us at our Motor Sports Club and tell us all about it at the forum!

Have something of your own to share? Contribute it to us This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and walk away with TWO free magazines of your choice if you are one of the first 60 each month!

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