Monday, February 21, 2011

Travel Tips..(CAMERON HIGHLANDS)

When to visit Cameron Highlands
The best time to visit Cameron Highlands is during the off peak season or during the weekdays. It can get really crowded here with during the school holiday weekends and festive holidays and traffic can get really bad especially around the towns and tourist spots. Driving from Tapah or Ipoh can also take twice as long during these times.

Road Travel 
Be careful when driving to Cameron Highlands especially if you are a first timer. There are a lot of trucks and buses on the roads here most of the time. Overtaking can be a challenge especially on the Tapah-CH road. If you are not confident, just follow the vehicle in front you at a slow speed. Usually the local trucks and buses will signal for you to overtake when it is safe. During the rainy season, you can expect small rocks and tree branches on the roads.
If you are an inexperienced driver, avoid travelling at night if possible since there are no street light all along the way and there is very limited mobile phone coverage.

Petrol StationsMake sure you have at least half tank of fuel before you start your journey from the expressway exit. Petrol stations in Cameron Highlands are only available in the following towns :
  • Ringlet - Shell & Petronas
  • Brinchang - Shell & Petronas

The townsTanah Rata - This is where most of the smaller hotels, lodges and guest houses are located. Tanah Rata is generally more quiet and less crowded even during the peak season and it is the spot most backpackers prefer to stay. If you want to enjoy some peace and quiet, this is the place to stay.
Brinchang - Weekend night maket is located here and its only 5-10 minutes drive to the Kea Farm area. Traffic and parking can be a big problem during the peak season. This is the place to stay if you dont mind the crowd.