Archive for November, 2008

Tips on Researching Car Rental Specials
By Jerry A. Blackburn

If you’re looking for a rental car then you know that rental rates can be expensive and a large part of your vacation budget. You don’t have to settle for a high rate. If you know where to look then you can find specials and discounts to save you money. Any money you save will be worth your efforts especially if you’re on a tight budget. Here are some ways to find the best rates and car rental specials.

Researching Rates

First off, it’s important to take time to research rates of various car rental companies. While most rental agencies competitively price their cars, due to changes in demand and availability there is sometimes a large difference in car rates between companies. The internet is the best tool for price comparing. There are travel websites (Travelocity, Orbitz, etc.) that will show you the available rates and car models for the time you wish to rent. You are also able to book your hotel and airline tickets as well. These websites usually charge a nominal fee for booking but the one-stop shopping convenience can be worth the small cost.

It’s also a good idea to visit the individual car rental websites. They usually reserve special deals and virtual coupons for customers who book directly through them. You can also sign up for their loyalty program which can give you discounts and email notifications of car rental specials.

Partnerships

Car rental companies also partner with other travel related businesses such as airlines, hotels and cruise companies. If you use a partner’s service then you may be entitled to discount or free class upgrade. Ask such businesses who they partner with for rental cars and if they offer special rates. Make sure you ask for a discount code (see below).

Discounts

All car rental companies offer discounts and you might be surprised to learn that you qualify for at least one of them. These discounts include senior, auto club (such as AAA) and corporate discounts. You’ll need to specify that you’re entitled to a discount when you reserve your car and show proof when you pick up your car.

Discount Codes

Whether you’re eligible for a discount or have a coupon, you’ll need to reserve your car with a discount code. A discount code is usually alpha-numeric and is entered when you book your reservation. If the discount doesn’t apply to the car you wish to rent then the booking won’t go through. If you have questions about a discount or coupon, call the rental car company’s reservation department.

It can be expensive to rent a car but these savings tips will help you find the right car at the best price.

Jerry Blackburn often creates informative papers on areas dealing with murcia airport car rental and car hire san javier airport. Writing for publications on car hire in murcia he demonstrated his experience on the topic.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_A._Blackburn

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CAR HIRE SPAIN / CAR RENTAL SPAIN


CAR HIRE Spain

from £9.00 per day

Car Hire Mallorca
By Tripta Dutta

The major port on Majorca and the capital of the Balearic Islands, the city of Palma de Mallorca is famous for its classy holidays as well as for bird watching. Palma de Mallorca Airport welcomes some 20 million people to the island every year. Once you are out of the Son Sant Jean Airport located 8 km (5 miles) west of Palma de Mallorca you could easily drive off in your personally rented car to your exotic holiday destinations like Alcudia Cala d’or, Palma Nova, C’an Picafort, Sa Coma, Cala Millor Porto Colom and Magalluf.

Mallorca Car hire : The best and most efficient way to get out of the Mallorca airport to your destination is to book your transfer in advance. It is the most hassle free way of arranging a transfer into Palma city, and the popular resorts anywhere on the island. Prebook your airport transfer with a car hire company and most of them will have a driver/representative waiting for you at the arrivals and transfer you to your destination anywhere on the island. You can get an automated online quote from car hire companies by simply filling in an enquiry form on the car hire website.

Some points you need to keep in mind while heading towards a Car hire at Mallorca:-

Book in advance: Book your rental car through one of the many online car-hire companies so that your hired car is definitely waiting at the airport arrivals lounge. Since the car hire market in Mallorca is very competitive you can actually get some excellent deals, to ensure that you get the best deal you MUST e-book the car in advance. Various categories of cars like family cars, automatic cars, MPV’s etc are available for any number of people at Mallorca airport.

Payment: Since Cash payments are not always possible so don’t forget to carry your credit card with you. Insurance: Collision-damage waivers (CDW) vary between companies and although, they usually seem unnecessary they are worthwhile when compared with the potential loss if an accident occurs.

Age limit: You must be at least 21 years old with a full driver’s license for one to three years (depending on your car hire company) as well as a passport. Once you have your hired car you can head off to the main autovia (main road) which runs from Palma city to Santanyí (Santañí) towards your chosen resort. Other airport transfer options include, a taxi hire from outside the arrivals lounge. There are buses running from outside arrivals into Palma from early morning, or you could also opt for the airport shuttle transfers.

Airport Facilities: Being a very busy and important airport on the Balearic Islands the airport has all the facilities a modern day traveler needs. From information and help desks to shopping centers, café’s and restaurants you will find everything within the airport complex.

Providing simple traveling solutions to the travelers of Spain since 1979.

For further information on Mallorca Car Hire log on to Car hire Mallorca

CAR HIRE Majorca

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tripta_Dutta

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Fiestas in Spain - Squashed Tomatoes and Jumping Devils
By Alan Liptrot

Fiestas take place throughout the year in various parts of Spain. The ones in small villages are certainly worth a visit, but if you want to experience something truly spectacular, try one of these;

SEMANA SANTA

Easter week in Spain is something to behold. Processions take place every day across the country, culminating with ‘the big one’ on Good Friday, when members of the various brotherhoods carry huge floats through the streets until the early hours of the morning. The most impressive ones are to be found in Cordoba, Granada, Malaga and Seville.

THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS

Known locally as San Fermin, the patron saint of Pamplona, this week long celebration begins on July 7th. Each morning the runners gather at 8am at the start of the route named ‘Cuesta de Santo Domingo’ and through song, ask San Fermin to protect them during the Bull Run. A rocket signals the release of the first bull, followed by another one when the last bull has left the corral and entered the streets of Pamplona. A third rocket tells us that the bulls have reached the ‘Plaza de Toros and a fourth indicates that the bulls are in their pens and the run is over.

LA TOMATINA

Surely the craziest fiesta on the planet. On the last Wednesday of each August in Bunol near Valencia, thirty thousand visitors join the nine thousand residents for a food fight, or to be more precise, a squashed tomato fight. The event begins when someone has successfully retrieved a ham from atop a large greasy pole. More than one hundred thousand tomatoes are thrown in just over one hour. Those taking part in the event are advised to wear safety goggles. The fiesta was banned under Franco but returned during the 70’s after his death. Don’t forget to take a change of clothes.

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

For the Spanish, Christmas is a time to be spent with the family. New Year’s Eve however is celebrated across Spain with huge parties organised by the various town councils. At midnight, a grape eaten with each stroke of the clock will bring good luck for the coming year. After that you can enjoy music and dancing until the early hours of the morning.

THE FALLAS FESTIVAL
Valencia hosts the Fallas Festival in mid March. This week long extravaganza of bonfires and fireworks is quite possibly one of the loudest in Spain and that’s saying a lot. Over two million tourists make their way to the city to watch the giant papier-mache Fallas, which are made in the image of famous people and characters from all walks of life, burnt at the end of the festivities, whilst worried fire-fighters stand by. The figures, which are made during the previous twelve months, are displayed in the city during the week, before they are burned amid a frenzy of noise and heat.

THE BABY JUMPING FESTIVAL
Yes, you read that properly. The El Colacho baby jumping festival takes place in Castrillo de Murcia in the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains every May. All newborns from the previous twelve months are eligible to be leapt over by a man dressed as the Devil, and consequently purged of evil. If you get to the town during the week before the Baby Jumping, you may have the dubious pleasure of being terrorised by one of the two individuals who go around with their truncheons and whips at ready. Then on the Sunday, the babies are laid out on the ground ready for the Devil, who has been hiding in the church, to leap forth and hurdle the infants before disappearing into the distance.

Hopefully, this will have whetted your appetite for a visit to a Spanish fiesta. Whether you opt for a large fiesta or the more intimate village celebration, the common denominator is fun. This is just a small sample of the fiestas that take place around Spain. It’s up to you; do you fancy being chased by a bull, being pelted by a soggy tomato or seeing the Devil himself leaping over innocent babies. You must admit, there’s quite a choice, and every one promises be a memorable experience. Buen Viaje! and hasta pronto.

The Author is the founder of yourholidayrentals.com providing worldwide holiday accommodation The original article, along with other interesting articles can be found at yourholidayrentals.com/inspiration/

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Liptrot

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Car Rental in Spain is Mainly Not the Same
By Albert Medinas

In a nation like the United States, where icons like McDonald’s and Wal-Mart have spoiled us into thinking we can go anywhere we like and still get a quarter pounder with cheese - or find people wearing blue smocks - it can be easy to think that the world is all the same. Even the car rental game seems the same, because we can get off at any airport and choose between compact, mid-size, or full-size, and generally get what we want and expect. While we may not want to admit it, the rest of the world just does not operate according to our way of thinking.

Getting a car rental in Spain, for instance, may not be difficult, but it certainly is not the same as securing one in Cleveland. There are some subtle differences between a car rental agency in Europe and one in America. If you plan on travelling abroad, don’t expect everything to be exactly the same.

So what can I expect when I want a car rental in Spain?

For one thing, don’t expect a great selection of vehicles with automatic transmissions or air conditioning. A car rental place in Spain, or elsewhere in Europe, will usually have only a limited selection of vehicles with these customary American options. Plus, while a car rental place in the United States will charge you an insane fee for not filling the fuel tank before returning, this pales by comparison to what may happen in Europe. Not only will you pay a steeper price for returning to the car rental company on “E”, but you will have to pay for gas by the litre - and the cost could break the bank for you.

In fact, because of the steep gasoline prices in Europe, you may want to ask the car rental agency for a diesel-powered car, as this will be easier on your budget. This may not measure up the exotic dreams you had for your time in Europe, but your wallet will thank you for making the more conservative choice at the car rental agency.

Will I have problems actually renting a car?

That depends on what you mean. Some nations require an international driving license, and the car rental agencies in these countries are required to ask this of anyone renting a car. To be on the safe side, you might want to go to a place like the American Automobile Association to avoid an embarrassing scene at the car rental place in Spain. It’s up to you, of course, but “better safe than sorry” is a good way to go here.

Now, because Europe is such a popular tourist destination in the summer, you might be very disappointed when the car rental agent in Spain shakes her head and tells you that nothing is available. It is best to reserve your vehicle as far in advance as possible, especially if you hope to have any luck at the car rental places during the peak periods.

What else should I know?

While not necessary, you may want to opt for the insurance at the car rental place. The reason? Europeans are known to be more aggressive drivers than their American counterparts. This is not to say that they are worse drivers, but their aggressive maneuvers may take you off guard. And you don’t want to return to the car rental agency and have them charge your insurance company for your European driving lesson, do you? I didn’t think so.

So take these guidelines into account when securing a car rental in Europe, and they will provide for a much more enjoyable and hassle-free experience. And when you get there, say “Hi” to the Eiffel Tower for me.

Albert Medinas has developed and maintains the website Car Rental Central, which answers the most common questions travellers have about Car Rental. Please visit us at carrentalcentral.net today.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Albert_Medinas

Car Hire Holidays in Spain
By David Collins

Imagine the scene; miles and miles of coastal roads from which views of endless blue ocean can be seen. Which destinations spring to mind when you think of such images: the coast of Australia, the Greek Islands or maybe even the coastal roads along the edge of California?

Maybe so, however, holiday car hire, particularly in destinations closer to home have been popular with Brits for many years. Car rental holidays allow you that little bit more freedom to explore your destination, particularly if you’re heading to countries like France, Spain and Portugal.

With the ongoing credit crunch forcing many holidaymakers to search for cheap car hire closer to home, the roads of the Iberian coast prove popular with both drivers and water sports enthusiasts seeking adrenaline rushes in the clear blue waters.

Car hire in Majorca, as well as other destinations in Spain, is popular with tourists, particularly at a time when petrol and diesel prices are still a bit uncertain. However, according to a recent survey, carried out by the Post Office, Spain car hire has the lowest rates when it comes to renting abroad, as well as having the lowest rate for diesel in Europe (at time of writing anyway)

Planning for a fly-drive holiday is essential if you want to get the most from your holiday. By taking a few small steps you can ensure that you can make the most of your holiday in the sun without having to worry about keeping the tank filled.

* Identify where you want to visit before you travel - make use of the internet and travel brochures to pinpoint water parks, beaches and other attractions.
* Once you’ve identified where you want to go, make a note of the approximate driving distance from your hotel, and upon arriving be sure to identify local petrol stations for when the time comes to refuel.
* Make a rough timeframe for the duration of your holiday - staggering visits to places within driving distance with time spent in the resort itself.
* If you’ve booked with a travel company, enquire to your rep about excursions on offer, some agencies will provide transport as part of the deal - thus saving you a bit on your petrol costs - be sure to take plenty of water for the journey if you’re visiting a hot country.
* Be wary of rush hour - ask for advice on times of day when the traffic is likely to be at its busiest.
* Also, be extremely wary of pedestrians and those on small mopeds - particularly if you have to drive through a town centre.

Looking for car hire in Majorca and other Spanish destinations? Compare a wide range of car hire companies to find a car rental deal that suits you.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Collins

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Car Rental Agreements - The Basics!
By Jerry Lyons

Your car rental agreement or car rental contract is more than just bunch of papers that you have to carry around in the glove compartment of your rental car. It’s a binding, legal contract that spells out all the terms and conditions of your car rental. Of course, contracts and their terminology will vary from car rental company to car rental company, but there are some standard items which will be listed and which you need to be familiar with. Always have your car rental contract with you in your rental car. It shows that you are in possession of the vehicle legally.

Look for the following items on your car rental agreement.

Rental Agreement Number

You will need this number if you need to call the location to modify your rental information or extend the length of your rental.

Car Number

This number is the serial number and designates the specific vehicle that is rented on the rental agreement.

Mileage In

This figure on your car rental agreement shows the miles on the vehicle at the time of pickup. The car rental location will record the mileage when you return the vehicle. If you were limited to a certain number of miles per day or per rental, these figures would be used to determine the amount, if any, you would be required to pay for mileage costs.

Fuel in or Gas In

This section will indicated on your rental agreement the level of your gas tank. Whatever it is, you will be expected to return your rental car with the same amount of gas. Make sure to check to see if the Gas In or Fuel in amount is the same as what shows on your actual gas gauge!

Pick up Location,Date,Time

This information shows the date and time of pick up and the rental station where the vehicle was picked up.

Return Location,Date,Time

This information shows the requested return date and time as well as the rental station where you have agreed to return the rental car.

Vehicle Inspection Report (This may be a separate sheet or form on your car rental agreement)

This information will document any dings, scratches and damage to the rental car. The vehicle will be inspected upon return and any new dings, scratches or damages will be attributed to you.

If you have the time, I strongly recommend going over this report to make sure there are no damages that you see on the vehicle that are not listed on the report.

Regulations for the vehicle

There may be a statement that lists the terms and/or conditions of your rental with regard to the vehicle, its cargo, the use of the vehicle and additional drivers. These terms may include stipulations that you are expected to comply with.

Regulations may include:

* not using the vehicle to carry passengers for hire (you can’t use the rental car as a taxi!)
* that the rented vehicle shall not be used to carry passengers other than in the interior of the vehicle (pretty straightforward, I hope!)
* that the rented vehicle shall not be used to carry passengers in excess of the capacity of the vehicle
* not to use the vehicle to push, propel or tow another vehicle, trailer or any other thing without the written permission of the rental company
* not to use the vehicle for any race or competition, use the vehicle for any illegal purpose or use it in a negligent manner
* not to permit the vehicle to be operated by any other person without the written permission of the car rental company (Additional drivers must sign on to your contract at the rental counter)
* not to carry passengers, property or materials in excess of the rated weight-carrying capacity of the vehicle

Additional or Allowable Drivers

This section of your car rental agreement will list all the drivers that are authorized to drive your rental vehicle. There may be an additional fee for extra drivers.

Options

This part of the car rental agreement would list any additional options that were selected. These include, upgrades, personal protection options, LDW/CDW, special equipment, fuel options, etc. (Most car rental companies will allow you the option of filling the car yourself before return, or paying a certain amount to the car rental company for them to refuel the car for you.)

Charges

This section of your car rental agreement will list all the charges associated with the rental. Charges include the base rate of the vehicle, applicable airport fees, taxes, surcharges, other government imposed fees, and charges for any additional options or special equipment that you chose to purchase. It will also include the charges for any fees that the company charges specific to your rental.

Make sure that the charges listed are correct and that the total is what you agreed to when you reserved the car.

You will be given a total or balance due.

Note that whoever uses their credit card to charge the rental at the time of pickup is considered the renter and primary driver, (whether they ever drive it, or not…) anyone else who drives the rental car is considered an additional driver.

Signature(s)

By signing the rental agreement or rental contract you agree to comply with all terms and conditions listed.

Your signature on the rental car agreement allows the car rental company to charge your credit card with any possible extras at the end of the rental, such as late return of the vehicle or damage to the vehicle (if you declined the optional loss damage waiver or collision damage waiver offered by the rental car company).

For more car rental tips, visit best-car-rental-tips.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Lyons

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