The Blues are set to step up their preparations for the 2011/12 with an energy-sapping trip to Malaysia and Thailand. Their schedule includes four games in the space of 10 days, while they will also have to contend with extreme heat and humidity. Cech is aware of what to expect, having visited Asia with Chelsea in 2008, and knows the Blues squad will not be allowed to treat the trip as a holiday. He would have it no other way, though, with it important for the players to get in shape for the new campaign and for the club to promote themselves across the globe. "I have not been to Asia apart from that last tour with Chelsea because normally there is no time to go to that part of the world," Cech told the club's official website. "You remember the hospitality and the people being excited to see you there, but on the other hand you travel a lot and there is a big time difference and a huge humidity. "You run in 40 degree heat with high humidity and it is difficult but you know it is part of the business and part of raising the fan base of the club. "You know it will be tough before so you need to drink a lot and make sure you don't get sunburnt but we know what to expect so the experience of going there first time will obviously help everybody to get ready for this tour so it might be even better." Chelsea's first game of their pre-season programme arrives on 21st July, when they head to Kuala Lumpur, and Cech is looking forward to turning out in front of the Blues' fanatical Asian support. He added: "All the people supporting us there have the opportunity to see us playing which is obviously brilliant for them, and this is also the reason why we tour there so you will always remember it with good memories because of the excitement of the people around, you can see them smile which is nice to see."
