Tags: amboise backpacking car rental car rental french directions driving driving in france Europe f

During my last trip to Europe we rented a car for three days to visit the Loire Valley and Normandy. Yes, these places were accessible by train but we opted for a different budget hotels rome kind of mini-adventure. What we did not expect was creating one of our favorite budget hotels rome European memories along the way. Here s my Top Five for renting a car in France!
Before you rent the car, first decide on where you want to go. Are you heading out for a few days or a few weeks? Are you traveling North to South? Have a specific region in mind? Also, are you going to travel in more than one country? You will have freedom on the road but these are some things you should pin down before you book anything.
Most of the major travel sites have options to book a car with your flight for a certain amount of days. This is a great option if you re a super planner and know exactly when you want to rent a car and for how long. You can also book the rental car separately, no problem and great if, say, you fly into Rome but only want your rental car around Bordeaux when you travel over at the end of your holiday. If you are planning to rent a car for more than three weeks the French offer special leasing programs for foreigners that include insurance. Regardless of how you book, make sure you are all patched up before you set foot in Europe, it ll save your wallet tremendously. Expedia is typical but where we found the best deal and they helped us get our money when we were double charged on accident for insurance. The actual company we booked from was Sixt and it was a great experience.
Also notable: We made the mistake of renting our car from a rental location much further from our flat, a very long walk took place before we checked in. I would suggest finding your hotel first and then figuring out which rental location is going to be closest.
What good is a pair of sneakers without any laces to tie them up? Pick yourself up a French map. We waited till we arrived in France and picked one up at the iconic and budget friendly Gibert Jeune by the St-Michel Statue in the Latin Quater. I should note that you will need to find your book in the English maps section on the second floor! You can also snag one online before your trip.
French Highways are similar to those in America, but you should be aware that there are several differences in driving in France. Signs may be in French with some English in more touristy areas but out in more rural areas you my be on your own. Destination budget hotels rome signs are well marked and the roads are fairly easy to navigate with a little sense of general direction. Your map will help you but be aware and do some research if you can about general French budget hotels rome highway marker and signs.
Find out if your new ride runs diesel or gasoline, you d hate to fill up with the wrong one! Gas is much more expensive than in the United States. Also American Credit Cards do not work in most filling stations. Be sure you have enough budget hotels rome Euros on you to get from one place to the other. budget hotels rome ATM s are not always easy to come across in smaller cities so be prepared.
On most major freeways there are tolls, some more costly than others. We found they ranged from $2-$16. Again, your credit budget hotels rome cards may not work in their machines so opt for the cash lane. With help from your map it is possible to avoid toll roads just know that it may take much longer. We were able to stay on local roads around the Loire Valley which was a real treat to see local estates and barren landscapes. We got extra croissants with our saved money
-Gas Station Stops along the major highways are wonderful! Everyone stops, has an espresso and chit-chats before heading back on the road. In our experience, the facilities were always clean and the convenience store food options were fresh and healthy! (You ll have to stay in America budget hotels rome for your honey-buns)
Overall, renting a car in France can be an unforgettable part of your trip to Europe. It is a beautiful change of pace from the bustle of Paris and other major towns. Prices are generally much affordable in the smaller places as far as food and accommodations which can offset the actual expense of renting a car. Riding down the highway over the gorgeous french countryside is an experience and enriching cultural addition to any European holiday.
Tags: amboise backpacking car rental car rental french directions driving driving in france Europe french car french highway french travel mt saint michel normandie orleans Paris rent a car in france road signs sixt tours Travel
About Latest Posts Bee Social Teri I am an Actor. I love to Travel. Nothing more, nothing less. The only vegan you will ever meet that was raised in Texas. Twilight Zone and Lost reruns are always my favorite company. I also enjoy water-coloring, vegan cooking and cardio barre. Fueled by passion, driven by heart. budget hotels rome And dark chocolate. And cute animals. My friends and family mean the world to me. Bee Social Latest posts by Teri ( see all ) When the French Skirt Met an American Cardigan: budget hotels rome A Love Story - July 17, 2014 Best Free, Fun and Most Unexpected Activity while Traveling? - July 15, 2014 Renting a Car in France - July 12, 2014