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 rates. Show all posts
Showing posts with label car rental rates. 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.
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.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Picking The Right Rental Car Company
Picking The Right Rental Car Company
by Amy Nutt
Are you looking to hire a car for your next vacation or business trip? Remember to rent from a well-known outlet that offers a wide selection of models ranging from fuel-efficient compacts, up to roomy (but gas-guzzling) Sport Utility Vehicles. Check for comfort options like air conditioning, power steering and automatic transmission. Some rental agencies offer services such as roadside assistance and locksmith calling as part of their rental packages, and these features can make or break your vacation.
It's important to ask a lot of questions and find out as much as you can before making reservations to rent a car from any agency. Booking your rental long in advance will ensure that you get a discount of some sort for your rental. This will also help you to have the widest selection of models, especially during peak holiday rental times. Most rental vehicles come with at least AM/FM radios and many also have CD players. Some even sport MP3 player input jacks so you can play your favorite downloaded songs on your trip. Another thing to remember is if you're not familiar with manual gearing, don't try and learn 'stick shift' on the road. You'll only end up with more stress than you bargained for and you may end up in an accident.
Think long and hard about the time you may be spending in the vehicle and how much space you will need for yourself, your passengers and your luggage. You can then make your choice based on comfort and not just price. If you end up jammed into a vehicle that is smaller than you planned on, it could really spoil your holiday. Even though it may cost less to rent a smaller vehicle, it won't be worth it if there's little or no comfort for you and your passengers. For example, compact cars may save you fuel, but if you're six feet tall, they would kill your knees, especially if you're driving a long way. If you don't like the model that you reserved, talk to the rental agency staff. They will try to get you into a car that's more suitable for you. However, there may be an extra fee to pay if you choose to upgrade to a larger vehicle.
If you book your rental vehicle directly online, you may qualify for special offers. Also, just like when you buy anything else, you should shop around for the best bargains that car rental agencies have to offer. Remember, availability of these promotional rates may be limited, so the sooner you call, the more likely your chances are of getting them. Your travel agent can help you look for deals online, and save you from calling number after number.
by Amy Nutt
Are you looking to hire a car for your next vacation or business trip? Remember to rent from a well-known outlet that offers a wide selection of models ranging from fuel-efficient compacts, up to roomy (but gas-guzzling) Sport Utility Vehicles. Check for comfort options like air conditioning, power steering and automatic transmission. Some rental agencies offer services such as roadside assistance and locksmith calling as part of their rental packages, and these features can make or break your vacation.
It's important to ask a lot of questions and find out as much as you can before making reservations to rent a car from any agency. Booking your rental long in advance will ensure that you get a discount of some sort for your rental. This will also help you to have the widest selection of models, especially during peak holiday rental times. Most rental vehicles come with at least AM/FM radios and many also have CD players. Some even sport MP3 player input jacks so you can play your favorite downloaded songs on your trip. Another thing to remember is if you're not familiar with manual gearing, don't try and learn 'stick shift' on the road. You'll only end up with more stress than you bargained for and you may end up in an accident.
Think long and hard about the time you may be spending in the vehicle and how much space you will need for yourself, your passengers and your luggage. You can then make your choice based on comfort and not just price. If you end up jammed into a vehicle that is smaller than you planned on, it could really spoil your holiday. Even though it may cost less to rent a smaller vehicle, it won't be worth it if there's little or no comfort for you and your passengers. For example, compact cars may save you fuel, but if you're six feet tall, they would kill your knees, especially if you're driving a long way. If you don't like the model that you reserved, talk to the rental agency staff. They will try to get you into a car that's more suitable for you. However, there may be an extra fee to pay if you choose to upgrade to a larger vehicle.
If you book your rental vehicle directly online, you may qualify for special offers. Also, just like when you buy anything else, you should shop around for the best bargains that car rental agencies have to offer. Remember, availability of these promotional rates may be limited, so the sooner you call, the more likely your chances are of getting them. Your travel agent can help you look for deals online, and save you from calling number after number.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Find car with your own choice at the best car rental rates
Find car with your own choice at the best car rental rates.
by Jumphigher
Renting a car allows you the flexibility and independence to explore and travel wherever you are travelling. Whether you regularly rent cars or just occasionally from car rental companies, make sure to do some research and comparison and you will be able to rent your car at a great rate.
Contrary to popular belief, car rental rates are not set in stone. Often, discounts can be found by doing your research, and simply asking for them. Car Rental companies are eager to rent out cars they are not using. Cars sitting on a lot are not making them any money. Follow these simple tips to get the most of your car rental experience:
Look Out For Hidden Costs Within Your Car Rental Charges
Do not get excited when you think you have found a good rate; if your car rental rate seems to be too cheap to be true, it most likely is. You will soon be disillusioned as soon as you see the extra charges add up, such as the sales taxes, airport surcharges, insurance fees, licensing fees etc., and it is only then that you come to realise all the hidden cost behind the seemingly cheap rate.
Compare Car Rental Rates Online
Surfing on the web is a good way to compare all the various rates offered by car rental companies. You can also take advantage of discounts offered online by many major car rental companies. Be sure to go through every term and condition carefully before renting the car online. Also be sure of the restrictions that the rental car company is imposing on using their car. Shop around for good bargains before jumping on any deal. Ask your car rental company if there are discounts for a weekly versus a daily rental, or if there are discounts for memberships such as AAA, USAA, AARP, or other organizations. If you work for a large company, ask about corporate rental rates.
Book Your Car Early
If you are planning your trip several months in advance, check car rental prices available at that time. If you find what you consider fair, go ahead and lock it in. You can change it later, if you find a better rate. Many times, car rental companies will give deep discounts to early bookers. By following these tips, you can get a better rate on car rentals just about anywhere in the world. Have a great trip!
by Jumphigher
Renting a car allows you the flexibility and independence to explore and travel wherever you are travelling. Whether you regularly rent cars or just occasionally from car rental companies, make sure to do some research and comparison and you will be able to rent your car at a great rate.
Contrary to popular belief, car rental rates are not set in stone. Often, discounts can be found by doing your research, and simply asking for them. Car Rental companies are eager to rent out cars they are not using. Cars sitting on a lot are not making them any money. Follow these simple tips to get the most of your car rental experience:
Look Out For Hidden Costs Within Your Car Rental Charges
Do not get excited when you think you have found a good rate; if your car rental rate seems to be too cheap to be true, it most likely is. You will soon be disillusioned as soon as you see the extra charges add up, such as the sales taxes, airport surcharges, insurance fees, licensing fees etc., and it is only then that you come to realise all the hidden cost behind the seemingly cheap rate.
Compare Car Rental Rates Online
Surfing on the web is a good way to compare all the various rates offered by car rental companies. You can also take advantage of discounts offered online by many major car rental companies. Be sure to go through every term and condition carefully before renting the car online. Also be sure of the restrictions that the rental car company is imposing on using their car. Shop around for good bargains before jumping on any deal. Ask your car rental company if there are discounts for a weekly versus a daily rental, or if there are discounts for memberships such as AAA, USAA, AARP, or other organizations. If you work for a large company, ask about corporate rental rates.
Book Your Car Early
If you are planning your trip several months in advance, check car rental prices available at that time. If you find what you consider fair, go ahead and lock it in. You can change it later, if you find a better rate. Many times, car rental companies will give deep discounts to early bookers. By following these tips, you can get a better rate on car rentals just about anywhere in the world. Have a great trip!
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