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.

Tips for Hassle Free Car Rental

Tips for Hassle Free Car Rental

by Greg Chapman

Summer is the season for travel, and for many people that means booking flights, rental cars and hotels in far off places. Planning ahead and asking the right questions can help you avoid transportation headaches when you should be enjoying your much needed vacation. These tips for car rental can help make your vacation travel more affordable and devoid of unnecessary hassles.

-Make reservations early. Like airline tickets, the price of car rentals can increase as travel dates grow near and vehicle availability decreases. Especially during peak travel season, such as summertime, reserving a rental vehicle in advance can save you money and give you peace of mind that the vehicle will be available when you need it. Also, ask about the company's cancellation policy at the time you make your reservation so that you will not be surprised later by owing undisclosed fees.

-Compare rates online. Shopping around for the best price and availability of the vehicle you prefer is the best way to get what you want. To avoid wasting too much time calling around, seek reputable websites that do the work for you. Good comparison sites allow you to see the rates and other details about different companies, and can save you both time and money. Make sure to take advantage of any online discounts that are offered.

-Seek a company that can accommodate your schedule. Make sure to find out the hours of operation for the rental company you are dealing with. Many are not open 24 hours, and you will probably need to be able to pick up and return the rental vehicle during a designated time frame. If you are flying and renting a car at your destination, check your arrival and departure times to ensure that the rental company will be open at the time of day that makes sense for your travel plans.

-Cover your bases. Upon picking up your vehicle, perform a thorough inspection with the rental agent, and make note on the contract of any existing damage. This precautionary measure will alleviate you from responsibility for damage to the vehicle that you did not cause.

-Comply with mileage restrictions. It is in your best interest to read the fine print of your contract to avoid surprises upon returning the vehicle. For instance, many contracts contain restrictions on the number of miles permitted with your contract as well as stipulations like a requirement to stay within the state. Failure to comply with your contract can result in extraneous charges or can negate the insurance coverage should something happen to the vehicle.