Useful tips for racing nuts in Sepang

Malaysia, just like my homeland Philippines, sits in the tropical region of the Earth, thereby having mainly 2 seasons each year: sunny and rainy. But although October is included in the rainy season, a trip to Sepang during this period is guaranteed to be hot (literally and figuratively)! Firstly, the heat is intense from mid-morning until afternoon. The rain will only start to threaten by around 5PM. Secondly, Sepang International Circuit generally holds its MotoGP round in October. That means premiere motorcycle racing, and thousands of oozing hot bikes as racing fans gather to watch and support their favorite riders. Thirdly, it's a never ending walk under the blazing sun. Whether going to the gates from the circuit entrance, or from the gates to the grandstands, or even back in KL for a little Chinatown shopping. Even a good pair of shoes will scream "Enough!" at the end of the day.

As the race weekend will drive you crazy, hungry, weary, and sweaty, it will be great to find a quiet refuge at the end of the day. Take into consideration the proximity from SIC, you wouldn't want wasting half the day hopping from one train to another, into a cab and goodness knows where to in a bid to catch the buses going to the circuit. Another point to consider is its proximity to your modes of transportation (especially to train stations).Lastly, for the racing fan/tourist, it will also be good to check if your hotel is within walking distance from known tourist spots, especially flea markets (e.g. Chinatown).

Buses going to the circuit are located in KL Sentral. You can start searching for hotels around the area and extend north towards KLCC area. This is the best way to find lodging that is (1) closest to the circuit without sky-rocketing rates, (2) within walking distance to train stations and (3) accessible to tourist spots (unless your idea of tourist spots on a racing weekend would include something like the Genting Highlands, then of course, you'd need another day for that).

Buffet breakfast will be a great inclusion in your hotel package. For all the walking you'll do, make sure to eat a lot during breakfast for a total body workout later on!

As most racing fans, we don't really give much attention to anything else but the racing weekend. As long as we have access to food, bed, and transportation, we're done. The majority of the time, we worry about things related to racing.

The very first thing you need to remember on your trip to Sepang is water. Why? Let me list it down for you.

1. As I've already mentioned earlier, it's really hot in Sepang. You'd need water to cool you down and rehydrate yourself.
2. Because it is hot in Sepang, most of the people in attendance would be lining up the stalls offering cold drinks (water, sodas, and beers) as well as the ice cream vendor (if one is available). Therefore, expect shortage of drinks.
3. Because of high demand, expect the thirst quenchers to be GOLD! It is actually relatively cheap, but multiply that to at least 10 bottles (for a whole day consumption) and it isn't anywhere near cheap.

So, bring a bottle or two with you and you can save money, and time (queuing or walking to the drinks stall), and better enjoy the spectacle. There is no shortage of food and you'd find a number of selections within the circuit.

The second thing you need to remember is the "Double S" -- sunblock and shades! You wouldn't know how hot it can be in Sepang unless you've been there. For someone who has to work hard to get a natural tan, Sepang is the only place I've been to so far, that can instantly give me a darker color. And i mean DARKer color. So protect your skin and protect your eyes, as the heat, at one point, will be painful.

Good shoes. I've been babbling on about this. It's a never ending walk for racing fans. Sometimes, you'd have to run too. A good pair of sturdy, comfortable, and lightweight shoes will be your ultimate best friend throughout the weekend.

The rest are optional. Good camera is great but not necessary. Extra shirts can bring you added comfort but not necessary. Am I telling you the rest are optional? Remember: water, double s, and good shoes.

AND FOR GOODNESS SAKES, DON'T FORGET YOUR RACE TICKETS!