Hiring a car in Spain - is it worth it?
by Andrew Regan
Whether it's for environmental reasons or those of convenience, hiring a car to use as transport when on holiday may seem an unsuitable choice for some travellers. For others, it's the most convenient way to find transport between holiday locations, some of which may be out of the reach of the local transport system. Anyone going on holiday to Spain, for example, may find it simple to catch a train from Barcelona to Seville - but what if you wanted to explore some of the country's more out of the way areas, such as the Alpujarras mountainous district or the port of Cadiz?
If you are thinking about hiring a car on a holiday to Spain, you'll have to take into account some basic facts and figures. One of the main things to consider is how much you actually need the car: for example, in terms of budgeting, the basic rental would cost more than a train or bus ticket. Add to that amount the numerous petrol refills and road tolls you would come across if you used a car instead of the local transport and you've got a hefty transport bill right in your lap.
If you are going to rent car, would it be better to go through with the transaction when you're booking your holiday? Or would you rather walk up to one of the hire car counters desks you always see in airportswhen you arrive at your destination? Booking beforehand gives you a sense of security, knowing that once you get your luggage out of baggage reclaim you can walk up to the car counterhire desk, retrieve a set of car keys and drive out of the airport yourself.. Ordering on the day itself, on the other hand, can be problematic. There may be a queue for the car counter or you may not have the variety of car options made available to you had you booked online.
Another factor is the levels of traffic in Spain. Almost every major city in the world has problems with traffic and Spain is no exception. Mornings in Madrid are notorious for traffic build-ups and, with the added hassle of trying to find an empty parking space, then it might be prudent to say that car travel would not be an option available to all.
On the plus side, travelling in a car does have some major benefits. You don't have to plan your holiday itinerary to match those of the local buses or trains; and, as the luxury of air conditioning is common in most cars, this would be a godsend if the weather was 30 degrees Celsius with 90 percent humidity - as is often the case in Spain's most popular holiday locations. An added bonus would be the ability to retain your personal space and more within the comforts of your hired car, instead of travelling with fellow tourists or Spaniardsother passengers in a crammed bus or carriage.
So if your holiday in Spain consists of travelling in and around the major urban cities, then it would make sense to make use of the local transport system. However, if you're feeling adventurous, then rent a car and make your way to locations less frequented by tourists as car hire in Spain can be easily done either before, at the start of or during your holiday.
Showing posts with label Car Rental Costs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Car Rental Costs. Show all posts
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Driving tips in Greece
Driving tips in Greece
by Andy Burrows
Once arriving in Greece, many tourists opt to hire a car and set out alone. There's truly no better way to experience the countryside in Greece than from the comfort of your car and according to your own schedule. Crossing from the centralised and urban to the expansive countryside is like travelling backwards through time, and the road hazards of one area are often unlike those in another.
In Greece, the flow of traffic keeps to the right side of the road. Some of the basic driving regulations include an enforced seatbelt requirement for front-seat passengers only and a child safety-seat for any children less than 10 years of age. Children in these seats are also expected to be situated in the front seat. Visitors are advised not to use a cell phone while driving, as this is punishable by a stiff fine.
In the unfortunate event that you get in a car accident, you'll be glad that you brought along the standard emergency kit, including a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit and a red warning triangle. Finally, the drink driving limit is a blood alcohol level of 0.5mg/ml.
There are some peculiar traffic rules that are occasionally enforced in Greece, particularly in Athens. Due to unbearable congestion and extremely slow commutes, a system has been set up that only allows even-numbered and odd-numbered plates on alternating days.
The local traffic authorities have even been known to completely close the downtown streets to all traffic except for taxis. However, visitors don't need to wrack their brains trying to figure out which days they are allowed to drive on, exceptions to these rules are in force both for vehicles with foreign plates and rental cars. Greece lucrative car rental deals
If you're heading out of Athens or another principal city, you'll find that all of the inter-city highways are three lanes wide and subject to a modest toll. Once you reach your destination, take care that you don't park in a restricted area. You're not allowed to idle and wait in your car along yellow dotted lines and many of the street-side parking spots require a prepaid permit that you can pick up from a nearby booth. Regardless, all parking zones are clearly marked with signs displayed both Greek and English text.
Most visitors to Greece arrive in Athens first and then head out from here. As long as you're in a downtown area, you should have no trouble filling up on fuel at any time of day, as many of the pumps accept payment by credit card 24 hours. From Athens, travel time to Salonica is approximately 5 hours by car, covering a distance of just over 300 miles. Patras is closer at 130 miles, which can be reached in around 2 hours. Greece discounted vehicle hire
No matter where you are in Greece, it pays to practice a little caution. In rural areas, you never know when you'll come around a corner and find yourself face to face with a herd or flock of livestock or a local farmer hauling an old-style cart. The urban centres are notoriously crowded and peak rush hour times may find you white-knuckled and anxious to get out of town. Keep your chin up though, because the rewards that the Greek countryside offers make it all worthwhile. There's nothing like leading your own expedition into the ancient ruins and the wealth of attractions that make Greece such a one-of-a-kind place.
by Andy Burrows
Once arriving in Greece, many tourists opt to hire a car and set out alone. There's truly no better way to experience the countryside in Greece than from the comfort of your car and according to your own schedule. Crossing from the centralised and urban to the expansive countryside is like travelling backwards through time, and the road hazards of one area are often unlike those in another.
In Greece, the flow of traffic keeps to the right side of the road. Some of the basic driving regulations include an enforced seatbelt requirement for front-seat passengers only and a child safety-seat for any children less than 10 years of age. Children in these seats are also expected to be situated in the front seat. Visitors are advised not to use a cell phone while driving, as this is punishable by a stiff fine.
In the unfortunate event that you get in a car accident, you'll be glad that you brought along the standard emergency kit, including a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit and a red warning triangle. Finally, the drink driving limit is a blood alcohol level of 0.5mg/ml.
There are some peculiar traffic rules that are occasionally enforced in Greece, particularly in Athens. Due to unbearable congestion and extremely slow commutes, a system has been set up that only allows even-numbered and odd-numbered plates on alternating days.
The local traffic authorities have even been known to completely close the downtown streets to all traffic except for taxis. However, visitors don't need to wrack their brains trying to figure out which days they are allowed to drive on, exceptions to these rules are in force both for vehicles with foreign plates and rental cars. Greece lucrative car rental deals
If you're heading out of Athens or another principal city, you'll find that all of the inter-city highways are three lanes wide and subject to a modest toll. Once you reach your destination, take care that you don't park in a restricted area. You're not allowed to idle and wait in your car along yellow dotted lines and many of the street-side parking spots require a prepaid permit that you can pick up from a nearby booth. Regardless, all parking zones are clearly marked with signs displayed both Greek and English text.
Most visitors to Greece arrive in Athens first and then head out from here. As long as you're in a downtown area, you should have no trouble filling up on fuel at any time of day, as many of the pumps accept payment by credit card 24 hours. From Athens, travel time to Salonica is approximately 5 hours by car, covering a distance of just over 300 miles. Patras is closer at 130 miles, which can be reached in around 2 hours. Greece discounted vehicle hire
No matter where you are in Greece, it pays to practice a little caution. In rural areas, you never know when you'll come around a corner and find yourself face to face with a herd or flock of livestock or a local farmer hauling an old-style cart. The urban centres are notoriously crowded and peak rush hour times may find you white-knuckled and anxious to get out of town. Keep your chin up though, because the rewards that the Greek countryside offers make it all worthwhile. There's nothing like leading your own expedition into the ancient ruins and the wealth of attractions that make Greece such a one-of-a-kind place.
Driving tips in Denmark
Driving tips in Denmark
by Andy Burrows
Denmark road network Denmark's road surfaces are of high quality and well maintained. There are only really three motorways but they cover the most important parts of the country well - with the E45 stretching from north-south on the mainland, the east-west E20 spanning the breadth of the country and the E47 serving Copenhagen, the capital. All other roads are numerically marked; highway 12 from Esbjerg to Viborg on the mainland, for instance.
It is free to drive on the motorways in Denmark; however, hefty tolls are levied on the main Great Belt Bridge and the section from Copenhagen to Malmo, Sweden.
Parking Parking in the main cities can be a bit strict. Denmark holiday accommodation For example, you are only permitted to park on Copenhagen's streets for one hour after purchasing a parking disc, available from petrol stations, banks, post offices and tourist offices. Discs must be clearly displayed on the dashboard area. Failure to comply will often end up with your car being towed and impounded. Other towns offer parking meters that allow up to three hours of parking.
Denmark road rules The minimum age to drive in Denmark is 18 years and drivers must have their full, valid license and insurance documents with them at all times - persons renting cars should keep their rental documents in the car while travelling. As with most of the rest of Europe, Denmark drives on the right and all passengers must wear seatbelts, even in the rear if the car is so fitted.
Traffic laws are strictly enforced and usually lead to fines. For speeding, for example, drivers caught going 50 per cent over the speed limit may be fined the equivalent of one month's salary, while drivers doubling the limit can expect to lose their licence for seven years. Although these restrictions mainly apply to Danish nationals, penalties are similar for non-nationals. Drink driving penalties are also severe and the maximum blood alcohol content level is just 0.5mg/ml.
Drivers bringing their own cars into Denmark should also be aware that it is mandatory that you carry a red warning triangle in case of breakdown, your registration plate is of the new Euro variety displaying the international registration letters of your country of residence and right-hand drive cars have headlamp deflectors fitted to their headlights. Discounted Denmark auto hire
Denmark speed limits
Urban areas: 50kph/31mph Rural roads: 80kph/50mph Motorway: 110kph/68mph
Speed limits are strictly enforced in Denmark and hefty fines are the norm.
Denmark fuel costs
Prices in krone (KR) per litre:
Unleaded 95: 10.35 kr/l Unleaded 98: 10.64 kr/l Diesel: 8.65 kr/l
Lead replacement fuel is also available and is slightly cheaper then unleaded.
Denmark road safety Even though Denmark's roads are very good and the statistics for traffic accidents are considerably less than other countries in Europe, accidents nevertheless do happen and remaining vigilant while driving, particularly near Copenhagen, is recommended. Many cities have lanes reserved for cyclists and drivers should take extra care when bikes are about.
All motorways have emergency telephones at regular intervals and if you should breakdown, call Falck (the national breakdown service) on 112, available 24 hours. Police, ambulance and fire services are also available on this number. The Danish motoring organisation Forenede Danske Motorejere (FDM) can provide sound mechanical and legal assistance.
by Andy Burrows
Denmark road network Denmark's road surfaces are of high quality and well maintained. There are only really three motorways but they cover the most important parts of the country well - with the E45 stretching from north-south on the mainland, the east-west E20 spanning the breadth of the country and the E47 serving Copenhagen, the capital. All other roads are numerically marked; highway 12 from Esbjerg to Viborg on the mainland, for instance.
It is free to drive on the motorways in Denmark; however, hefty tolls are levied on the main Great Belt Bridge and the section from Copenhagen to Malmo, Sweden.
Parking Parking in the main cities can be a bit strict. Denmark holiday accommodation For example, you are only permitted to park on Copenhagen's streets for one hour after purchasing a parking disc, available from petrol stations, banks, post offices and tourist offices. Discs must be clearly displayed on the dashboard area. Failure to comply will often end up with your car being towed and impounded. Other towns offer parking meters that allow up to three hours of parking.
Denmark road rules The minimum age to drive in Denmark is 18 years and drivers must have their full, valid license and insurance documents with them at all times - persons renting cars should keep their rental documents in the car while travelling. As with most of the rest of Europe, Denmark drives on the right and all passengers must wear seatbelts, even in the rear if the car is so fitted.
Traffic laws are strictly enforced and usually lead to fines. For speeding, for example, drivers caught going 50 per cent over the speed limit may be fined the equivalent of one month's salary, while drivers doubling the limit can expect to lose their licence for seven years. Although these restrictions mainly apply to Danish nationals, penalties are similar for non-nationals. Drink driving penalties are also severe and the maximum blood alcohol content level is just 0.5mg/ml.
Drivers bringing their own cars into Denmark should also be aware that it is mandatory that you carry a red warning triangle in case of breakdown, your registration plate is of the new Euro variety displaying the international registration letters of your country of residence and right-hand drive cars have headlamp deflectors fitted to their headlights. Discounted Denmark auto hire
Denmark speed limits
Urban areas: 50kph/31mph Rural roads: 80kph/50mph Motorway: 110kph/68mph
Speed limits are strictly enforced in Denmark and hefty fines are the norm.
Denmark fuel costs
Prices in krone (KR) per litre:
Unleaded 95: 10.35 kr/l Unleaded 98: 10.64 kr/l Diesel: 8.65 kr/l
Lead replacement fuel is also available and is slightly cheaper then unleaded.
Denmark road safety Even though Denmark's roads are very good and the statistics for traffic accidents are considerably less than other countries in Europe, accidents nevertheless do happen and remaining vigilant while driving, particularly near Copenhagen, is recommended. Many cities have lanes reserved for cyclists and drivers should take extra care when bikes are about.
All motorways have emergency telephones at regular intervals and if you should breakdown, call Falck (the national breakdown service) on 112, available 24 hours. Police, ambulance and fire services are also available on this number. The Danish motoring organisation Forenede Danske Motorejere (FDM) can provide sound mechanical and legal assistance.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
6 Tips On How To Choose A Rental Car
6 Tips On How To Choose A Rental Car
by Barry Allen
Renting a car can lead to confusion as there are so many options such as booking online, choosing a car rental firm, selecting a car, should there be a baby seat and so on. These days there are several websites that are platforms that bring together leaders in the car rental business like Hertz and the consumer. One can fill a simple form and get quotes from 3-5 firms and this will allow you to not just compare prices but what each firm offers as part of the service.
To rent a car hassle free, keep in mind:
1. That you must know what you need and how much you are willing to spend. Learn what commonly used vehicle classification systems are and what is meant by the terms "compact, mid-size, luxury and so on."
2. Always check car rental sites and web directories for "specials" , many companies have schemes for long term use, weeklong specials, and week end deals. These specials are meant to give a price break or discount on rentals. Check what promotions are current and what these deals include. Also many car rental firms offer discounts for early bookings.
3. Read through the offer document carefully and check if there will be charges over and above the rate for: collision damage waiver fees; a deposit or refundable charge; airport surcharge; drop off/collection charges; fuel charges; mileage fees; taxes; additional driver fees; equipment rental fees and so on.
4. Find out whether the car rental firm computes costs based on unlimited mileage; additional charge per mile; free miles with pre-imposed limits.
5. Check whether your auto insurance covers car rentals. If not does your credit card provide coverage or will you need to avail of auto insurance from the car rental firm?
6. Check what documents the car rental firm will need and ensure that all documentation is complete well before your departure date.
Be sure to ask for a confirmation in writing of your booking and find out what their 24/7 contact numbers are. Ensure that you protect your rights by finding out about who is responsible for fuel repairs and so on.
Before renting a car check whether the firm you are renting from has a good track record and whether they are renowned for good customer service. Check with the American Society of Travel agents site for tips on renting a car safely: http://www.astanet.com/travel/cartips.asp .
And according to the gurus of travel you must always insist on checking the rental car for any damage before taking possession of the vehicle and before returning the vehicle to the company after your use. This small exercise will prevent difference of opinion and trouble at a later date.
by Barry Allen
Renting a car can lead to confusion as there are so many options such as booking online, choosing a car rental firm, selecting a car, should there be a baby seat and so on. These days there are several websites that are platforms that bring together leaders in the car rental business like Hertz and the consumer. One can fill a simple form and get quotes from 3-5 firms and this will allow you to not just compare prices but what each firm offers as part of the service.
To rent a car hassle free, keep in mind:
1. That you must know what you need and how much you are willing to spend. Learn what commonly used vehicle classification systems are and what is meant by the terms "compact, mid-size, luxury and so on."
2. Always check car rental sites and web directories for "specials" , many companies have schemes for long term use, weeklong specials, and week end deals. These specials are meant to give a price break or discount on rentals. Check what promotions are current and what these deals include. Also many car rental firms offer discounts for early bookings.
3. Read through the offer document carefully and check if there will be charges over and above the rate for: collision damage waiver fees; a deposit or refundable charge; airport surcharge; drop off/collection charges; fuel charges; mileage fees; taxes; additional driver fees; equipment rental fees and so on.
4. Find out whether the car rental firm computes costs based on unlimited mileage; additional charge per mile; free miles with pre-imposed limits.
5. Check whether your auto insurance covers car rentals. If not does your credit card provide coverage or will you need to avail of auto insurance from the car rental firm?
6. Check what documents the car rental firm will need and ensure that all documentation is complete well before your departure date.
Be sure to ask for a confirmation in writing of your booking and find out what their 24/7 contact numbers are. Ensure that you protect your rights by finding out about who is responsible for fuel repairs and so on.
Before renting a car check whether the firm you are renting from has a good track record and whether they are renowned for good customer service. Check with the American Society of Travel agents site for tips on renting a car safely: http://www.astanet.com/travel/cartips.asp .
And according to the gurus of travel you must always insist on checking the rental car for any damage before taking possession of the vehicle and before returning the vehicle to the company after your use. This small exercise will prevent difference of opinion and trouble at a later date.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
How To Maximize Your Vacation Experience While Minimizing Your Car Rental Costs
How To Maximize Your Vacation Experience While Minimizing Your Car Rental Costs
by Amy Nutt
When you plan to take a family car trip, there are several aspects you must consider. Whether you already live in Sydney, Australia or plan to visit, your first consideration will be your means of travel. This, of course, raises the question of whether you should use your car or simply rent one. If you are traveling to Sydney, you will most likely rent a car, as this would probably be the most feasible and practical option.
Sydney, Australia is one of the most traveled cities, offering a wealth of activities sure to please everyone in your family. That is where obtaining discount car rentals can help you to better plan your trip and optimize your time and expenses. Finding such a deal in Sydney is both easy and economical.
It pays to conduct thorough research before actually planning your trip. Since you will probably be spending a lot of money on the various activities you choose to take advantage of while you are there, saving money on your car rental will really serve you well. The Internet is a great place to start. Many companies offer web sites with information about how you can save money and where to look. You will also be able to find specific quotes and compare prices from different companies.
Another factor to consider is the location of the company you choose. You want to be sure you will be able to pick up and return the car without much hassle, so this is another important consideration. This may also depend on the sights you wish to see, but either way, there are many options available to you.
There are several discount car companies available in Sydney, so finding what you need should not be a problem. There is also an array of specialty vehicles that are designed to suit various activities. For example, if you plan to head for the outback, you would probably want a more rugged vehicle than if you just planned to stay in town. Through the online options, you will be able to learn about how your rate will be guaranteed, will be able to confirm your reservation both quickly and easily, and choose the type of vehicle you wish to rent while in Sydney.
If you are traveling a good distance to reach Sydney, you will probably want to ask about any policies concerning changes or cancellations should they be necessary. Be sure to explore all the options available to you, and take great care in choosing the right one.
by Amy Nutt
When you plan to take a family car trip, there are several aspects you must consider. Whether you already live in Sydney, Australia or plan to visit, your first consideration will be your means of travel. This, of course, raises the question of whether you should use your car or simply rent one. If you are traveling to Sydney, you will most likely rent a car, as this would probably be the most feasible and practical option.
Sydney, Australia is one of the most traveled cities, offering a wealth of activities sure to please everyone in your family. That is where obtaining discount car rentals can help you to better plan your trip and optimize your time and expenses. Finding such a deal in Sydney is both easy and economical.
It pays to conduct thorough research before actually planning your trip. Since you will probably be spending a lot of money on the various activities you choose to take advantage of while you are there, saving money on your car rental will really serve you well. The Internet is a great place to start. Many companies offer web sites with information about how you can save money and where to look. You will also be able to find specific quotes and compare prices from different companies.
Another factor to consider is the location of the company you choose. You want to be sure you will be able to pick up and return the car without much hassle, so this is another important consideration. This may also depend on the sights you wish to see, but either way, there are many options available to you.
There are several discount car companies available in Sydney, so finding what you need should not be a problem. There is also an array of specialty vehicles that are designed to suit various activities. For example, if you plan to head for the outback, you would probably want a more rugged vehicle than if you just planned to stay in town. Through the online options, you will be able to learn about how your rate will be guaranteed, will be able to confirm your reservation both quickly and easily, and choose the type of vehicle you wish to rent while in Sydney.
If you are traveling a good distance to reach Sydney, you will probably want to ask about any policies concerning changes or cancellations should they be necessary. Be sure to explore all the options available to you, and take great care in choosing the right one.
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