MOTOR RENTALS

For the truly independent soul, car rental is the ideal answer and with the right transport and guidance anyone can be an explorer. Discover the real America on a self-driving holiday where you can plan your own schedule and travel at your own pace, stopping wherever you wish. America really lends itself to a relaxing touring holiday and our extensive range of cars will give you the opportunity to do just that.

For the 2008 season we have once again chosen to work closely with Dollar Rent A Car. They offer rental locations in nearly every major city, town and resort right across North America - as well in some out-of-the-way places too and represent excellent value for money.

Their large fleets of rental cars available in America range from economy to intermediate and full size premium cars, with all vehicles being modern and fully reliable, most fitted with air conditioning.

Although driving is on the RIGHT hand side of the road you will find that you acclimatise very quickly and there are few, if any, roundabouts to confuse you. In most major cities you are permitted to turn RIGHT at a RED traffic light provided you stop first and then proceed with caution. If in doubt, wait for the light! Be careful, pedestrian crossings are located close to crossroads and are usually GREEN for pedestrians when you turn a corner!

It is not necessary for most drives to have an International Licence, but this should be checked with your local motoring association prior to departure. When renting your car you will be asked to leave a deposit in the form of a Credit Card imprint as cash deposits for car rentals are NOT accepted.

In most cases, drivers must be over 21 years of age, or be prepared to pay a penalty at time of rental, if under this age. In most areas you are able to drop your car off at a different location from the one at which you collected it but 'drop-off' fees do apply. Please read CAREFULLY the "Rental Information" sections for each motor rental company before making a reservation.

On a final note, as you are free to plan your own itinerary and to stop when and where you like. PLEASE, do beware, that in high season or "special event" times, especially in the National Parks and in most major towns and cities, just "arriving - unannounced" at a hotel or lodge can be a problem. Therefore, you are very strongly advised to pre-book accommodation in these places so as not to have to spend a night in the car!

DOLLAR Rent a Car

At Dollar Rent A Car, a heavy emphasis is given to international clients. They are committed to ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable holiday experience and they endeavour to provide personal service above all other car rental companies.

The foundation of Dollar Rent A Car is built on a philosophy of exceptional customer service. Their company wide "customer first" employee training programme ensures that the best possible service is provided by all members of staff.

Dollar Rent A Car was founded in 1965 in Los Angeles, where its executive offices remained until August 1994 when Dollar relocated its world headquarters to Tulsa, Oklahoma. In 1990, Dollar was acquired by Chrysler, which made it part of its Pentastar Transportation Group Inc.

In November 1997, DaimlerChrysler Motors Corporation announced that its subsidiary, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, successor by merger, Pentastar Transportation Group, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to offer its common stock. Following divestiture, Chrysler no longer owned any of the DTAG common stock. Currently, DTAG owns Dollar Rent A Car Systems, Inc and licenses independent franchisees to rent vehicles under its brand.

Dollar Rent a Car has approximately 430 worldwide locations in 26 countries which includes alone, 260 locations in the United States. Many of Dollar's airport locations are in the actual terminals baggage claim area. To collect your car, simply go to the Dollar Rent a Car counter after you have collected your baggage.