How to save money on car rental
by Job Ekanem
You can save money on Car rental anytime,anywhere, by following a few tips below. In addition to the flexibility and liberty of using a car when you are traveling away from home, it is oftentimes more cost effective to rent a car when you are traveling outside your home. Apart from taking the burden of having to bother your head with bus and train schedules in the new city, you can save money by cutting on expensive taxi fares.
Always make your booking in advance, at least a week or two to pick -up. Making your booking early enough will enable you to choose the type of car that you want, and negotiate a better price for it. You can do this as soon as your travel plans are completed and confirmed by you.
Look out for deals and discounts, and preferably, make your booking online, so that you can take advantage of internet-only rates, where it is available. Such offers and more are available from most car rental companies, in addition to groups and membership discounts. Take advantage of them to save more money. Don't fail to use name-your-own -price sites such as Priceline, to further be in control of how much savings you can make.
If you intend to rent a car for up to or above six days, find out and use whatever weekly rate available. Most weekends are offered free or heavily discounted, for a weekly booking by some rental companies. You may also need to find out and use any package deal from your flight or Hotel booking.
Arm yourself with a generous insurance coverage that can cover all the make of cars and SUV's that you may want to rent. That way you can comfortably decline the company's policy. Otherwise, the rental agency will certainly slap one on you, at additional cost. It is common to pump up fuel at the company on return, so why not fill up the car with cheaper fuel before returning it to save extra money. Alternatively, pay for fuel before you take out the car, and return it empty.
If you apply these simple tips, and any other one that may be applicable, you are certainly going to save money the next time you are going to rent car and enjoy the freedom of using a car on transit.
Showing posts with label Car Rentals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Car Rentals. Show all posts
Sunday, April 12, 2009
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
How To Get The Most Out Of A Limousine Rental Service
How To Get The Most Out Of A Limousine Rental Service
by Vanessa Arellano Doctor
Renting the services of a Limousine rental service is becoming more popular with a lot of people nowadays, whether it is for a wedding, prom night, or even just for a date. Since most limousine rental services are not that cheap, it is important for people who do intend to rent one to get the most out of their money, especially if you are shelling out a lot of cash for it. There are certain things that you need to look out for in order to get the most bang for your buck.
One thing that you need to do initially is to determine what event you may want to rent the limousine for. This may help you figure out how much time you will be renting the limousine, and will help you decide how you are going to make use of the car for the duration that you intend to use it for.
Be sure that you plan your details for the event, and figure out what you are looking for from the limousine rental service so they can provide you with what you need, like the number of people for example. If you intend on accommodating a lot of people in the limousine, then make sure that you choose the right size of the limousine since the number of people can affect what type of vehicle you will be using.
Once you have prepared the necessary details, you now need to focus on the limousine itself, so make sure that you choose the right one for the event that you need it for. Make sure that you check the car's model, year and make. This may help you determine if the amount that you are paying is worth what you are getting. Although some people would prefer an old model limousine, others are still very much into the latest models of limousines available.
Also check if the limousine is insured as a limousine for hire. You can do so by with the Department of Motor Vehicle if the limousine that you are hiring is licensed as a limousine for hire. This will help ensure that in the event of an accident, the limousine is insured with liability coverage for the damages that it may sustain.
Another thing that you need to do is check the limousine service, which may vary depending on the price level of the limousine rental, but the basic limousine service includes the limousine, the driver and beverages which may range from alcoholic to non-alcoholic drinks. Make sure that the driver that is assigned to drive your hired limousine is wearing a uniform, and not just some casual clothes. This will ruin the elegance of the whole limousine ride. Also, the driver should already be well-informed of the routes that he or she may take in order to get to your desired destination without any delays.
You can even ask for added amenities to fully add to your whole limousine experience and make it more special. However, the best thing that you can do in order to get the most out of your limousine rental service is to compare the different limousine rental services out there, their rates and features, and find the one that best suites your needs and that best fits the event that you intend it for.
by Vanessa Arellano Doctor
Renting the services of a Limousine rental service is becoming more popular with a lot of people nowadays, whether it is for a wedding, prom night, or even just for a date. Since most limousine rental services are not that cheap, it is important for people who do intend to rent one to get the most out of their money, especially if you are shelling out a lot of cash for it. There are certain things that you need to look out for in order to get the most bang for your buck.
One thing that you need to do initially is to determine what event you may want to rent the limousine for. This may help you figure out how much time you will be renting the limousine, and will help you decide how you are going to make use of the car for the duration that you intend to use it for.
Be sure that you plan your details for the event, and figure out what you are looking for from the limousine rental service so they can provide you with what you need, like the number of people for example. If you intend on accommodating a lot of people in the limousine, then make sure that you choose the right size of the limousine since the number of people can affect what type of vehicle you will be using.
Once you have prepared the necessary details, you now need to focus on the limousine itself, so make sure that you choose the right one for the event that you need it for. Make sure that you check the car's model, year and make. This may help you determine if the amount that you are paying is worth what you are getting. Although some people would prefer an old model limousine, others are still very much into the latest models of limousines available.
Also check if the limousine is insured as a limousine for hire. You can do so by with the Department of Motor Vehicle if the limousine that you are hiring is licensed as a limousine for hire. This will help ensure that in the event of an accident, the limousine is insured with liability coverage for the damages that it may sustain.
Another thing that you need to do is check the limousine service, which may vary depending on the price level of the limousine rental, but the basic limousine service includes the limousine, the driver and beverages which may range from alcoholic to non-alcoholic drinks. Make sure that the driver that is assigned to drive your hired limousine is wearing a uniform, and not just some casual clothes. This will ruin the elegance of the whole limousine ride. Also, the driver should already be well-informed of the routes that he or she may take in order to get to your desired destination without any delays.
You can even ask for added amenities to fully add to your whole limousine experience and make it more special. However, the best thing that you can do in order to get the most out of your limousine rental service is to compare the different limousine rental services out there, their rates and features, and find the one that best suites your needs and that best fits the event that you intend it for.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Car Rentals For Alicante, Benidorm And Torrevieja
Car Rentals For Alicante, Benidorm And Torrevieja
by Clinton Maxwell
The most convenient way to travel throughout the Costa Blanca region is by an Alicante car rental. There are nine car hire companies operating at the Alicante International Airport, including Avis, Hertz, Altesa, Centauro, Aruiga, Europa, Record, Solmar and Euopcar. These car rental companies are conveniently grouped together in the airport and located immediately outside of the arrival area.
It is best to reserve your car before leaving home to not only guarantee the availability of car, but also to get the best deal on the car you want. The Costa Blanca area is the busiest during the summer season when car reservations fill up quickly. Consider reserving a car at the same time you make your hotel and flight reservations. You will likely find a better deal if you reserve a car in advance. If you do not know what size you need, at least reserve an economy size as you can always upgrade to a larger vehicle later.
When searching for a car, compare deals and availability with several car hire companies to get the best rate. You can call the company directly, can call a travel agent or search the internet. Travel agents sometimes offer hotel and flight packages that may include car rental. Of course, compare the cost of the entire package to the price of reserving each part separately. It may or may not be a better deal, but despite how you choose to find your car, there are a few car rental extras that you should consider when comparing rental packages.
First, consider whether or not you want to pick the car up from the airport or in the city. Generally, there is little difference between the cost of renting a car directly from the airport or from a city, such as Benidorm or Torrevieja. However, you should check the cost between the two options. It may be cheaper to rent in town and companies often provide transportation from the airport.
Also, if you need an infant or child seat, be sure to reserve a seat when you originally book your car rental. Child safety seats are the law in Spain and you want to be sure there are appropriate seats available based on your child's size and weight. You will pay an additional fee, but such seats are available as a car rental extra. Of course, you can always bring a car seat from home. Though the added "luggage" may be somewhat of a hassle, you will not have to worry that the seat will not be the appropriate size for your child. The money you save may be worth the added inconvenience.
Finally, with the hot weather during summers in the Alicante area, you will definitely want air conditioning. It may not be available in all vehicles. Be sure to confirm that this extra is included, if you plan on cool and comfortable travels during your stay. It will make a big difference.
by Clinton Maxwell
The most convenient way to travel throughout the Costa Blanca region is by an Alicante car rental. There are nine car hire companies operating at the Alicante International Airport, including Avis, Hertz, Altesa, Centauro, Aruiga, Europa, Record, Solmar and Euopcar. These car rental companies are conveniently grouped together in the airport and located immediately outside of the arrival area.
It is best to reserve your car before leaving home to not only guarantee the availability of car, but also to get the best deal on the car you want. The Costa Blanca area is the busiest during the summer season when car reservations fill up quickly. Consider reserving a car at the same time you make your hotel and flight reservations. You will likely find a better deal if you reserve a car in advance. If you do not know what size you need, at least reserve an economy size as you can always upgrade to a larger vehicle later.
When searching for a car, compare deals and availability with several car hire companies to get the best rate. You can call the company directly, can call a travel agent or search the internet. Travel agents sometimes offer hotel and flight packages that may include car rental. Of course, compare the cost of the entire package to the price of reserving each part separately. It may or may not be a better deal, but despite how you choose to find your car, there are a few car rental extras that you should consider when comparing rental packages.
First, consider whether or not you want to pick the car up from the airport or in the city. Generally, there is little difference between the cost of renting a car directly from the airport or from a city, such as Benidorm or Torrevieja. However, you should check the cost between the two options. It may be cheaper to rent in town and companies often provide transportation from the airport.
Also, if you need an infant or child seat, be sure to reserve a seat when you originally book your car rental. Child safety seats are the law in Spain and you want to be sure there are appropriate seats available based on your child's size and weight. You will pay an additional fee, but such seats are available as a car rental extra. Of course, you can always bring a car seat from home. Though the added "luggage" may be somewhat of a hassle, you will not have to worry that the seat will not be the appropriate size for your child. The money you save may be worth the added inconvenience.
Finally, with the hot weather during summers in the Alicante area, you will definitely want air conditioning. It may not be available in all vehicles. Be sure to confirm that this extra is included, if you plan on cool and comfortable travels during your stay. It will make a big difference.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Things To Remember Before You Rent A Car
Things To Remember Before You Rent A Car
The ubiquity of the internet today means that you can do most things without leaving your desk – it also means that when making a trip, you can organise your in advance in almost any location in the world, so that when you arrive, you can simply pick up your pre-booked car and go. To ensure that you experience goes completely smoothly, there are a few things you should bear in mind before you even log on to that website.
Decide before you book a car who exactly will be driving during your trip – a does not usually allow you switch drivers without a previous arrangement, so decide in advance whether one person will do all the driving or if you and a partner might take turns at the wheel. Having the wrong person in the driving seat might have implications on your insurance. And always make sure that you have insurance. This can be arranged through your existing insurance company – ask whether your existing insurance will cover your rental car. Regardless of the type of car you decide to hire, don’t skimp on insurance – it simply isn’t worth the risk.
Depending
on the nature of your trip, you will probably have particular requirements in your – so decide before booking what features you will need in a car. How many passengers will there be, will you be carrying a lot of luggage? While a fast and exotic car might be great for impressing clients on a one man or woman business trip, it isn’t quite so appropriate for long haul driving with the kids! Ensure that you car you select has plenty of room for both passengers and luggage, and meets any other special requirements you might have.
Don’t forget when hiring a rental car to bring all the appropriate documentation with you – this is not the time to forget your driver’s licence! It is also a good idea to bring a copy of the rental agreement in the car with you, just in case the police at any point stop you. And perhaps most importantly when renting a car in an unfamiliar location – don’t forget the map!
The ubiquity of the internet today means that you can do most things without leaving your desk – it also means that when making a trip, you can organise your in advance in almost any location in the world, so that when you arrive, you can simply pick up your pre-booked car and go. To ensure that you experience goes completely smoothly, there are a few things you should bear in mind before you even log on to that website.
Decide before you book a car who exactly will be driving during your trip – a does not usually allow you switch drivers without a previous arrangement, so decide in advance whether one person will do all the driving or if you and a partner might take turns at the wheel. Having the wrong person in the driving seat might have implications on your insurance. And always make sure that you have insurance. This can be arranged through your existing insurance company – ask whether your existing insurance will cover your rental car. Regardless of the type of car you decide to hire, don’t skimp on insurance – it simply isn’t worth the risk.
Depending
on the nature of your trip, you will probably have particular requirements in your – so decide before booking what features you will need in a car. How many passengers will there be, will you be carrying a lot of luggage? While a fast and exotic car might be great for impressing clients on a one man or woman business trip, it isn’t quite so appropriate for long haul driving with the kids! Ensure that you car you select has plenty of room for both passengers and luggage, and meets any other special requirements you might have.
Don’t forget when hiring a rental car to bring all the appropriate documentation with you – this is not the time to forget your driver’s licence! It is also a good idea to bring a copy of the rental agreement in the car with you, just in case the police at any point stop you. And perhaps most importantly when renting a car in an unfamiliar location – don’t forget the map!
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