We’re pleased to announce that the widely acclaimed Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is now available to hire through our premium Select Series range.   Launched by Volkswagen in September last year, this is the first time that the impressive Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet will be available to hire in the UK, exclusively to Avis customers.

The new soft top Golf  is a fantastic addition to our Select Series range – just in time for summer!  This sophisticated cabriolet is the perfect option for a weekend break,  and with strong demand from people wanting to buy the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet, it’s ideal for customers wanting to try before they buy.

Having already received impressive reviews and awards including the title of CarBuyer’s  Best Convertible, the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is an apt addition to Avis’ existing range of vehicles and 90 of the new cars have been introduced  to branches in London, Manchester and Scotland.

The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is the first soft top vehicle on the Avis Select Series fleet, which now includes an impressive range of vehicles…

• Audi A4
• Audi A4 Avant
• Audi A1
• Alfa Romeo Giulietta
• BMW 5 Series
• BMW 1 Series
• Fiat 500
• Volkswagen Scirocco
• Volkswagen Sharan
• Volvo XC90
• Citroen DS3
• Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion
• Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

If you’ve driven any of these beauties and have any feedback – let us know!  We’d love to hear your reviews.  Please comment below or post your comments on our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/AvisRentACarUK

There are many destinations which attract tourists the world over every summer but none more so than the Algarve, Portugal.  The Algarve is one of Portugal and Europe’s most popular tourist destinations and for good reason, with with the great weather, beautiful beaches, rich culture and history.

Most visitors reach the Algarve through the region’s only international airport, Faro Airport.  Companies offering car hire at Faro Airport such as Avis offer a variety of Faro car hire options suitable for any number of people and occasion. Travelling by car makes it a lot easier to travel between the various towns to experience and enjoy the best the Algarve has to offer.

There are many places of interest which tourists to this region must visit to really appreciate the best it has to offer. Here are a few of the places you should consider visiting should you find yourself in one of Europe’s top summer holiday destinations.

Sagres’s Beaches

Situated a few kilometres from Cape St. Vincent, Sagres is known for its great beaches and coastline, which attract sunbathers and water-sport enthusiasts. How many towns in the world give you a choice of four different beaches? Choose from Praia de Mareta (the town’s main beach), Praia da Baleeira, Praira do Tonel or Praia do Martinhal.

Barbelote Waterfall

Monichique is a town which does not feature highly in most travel brochures.  However this quaint town steeped in Roman history offers more than walking trails which offer a panoramic view of the Algarve.  It is home to Barbelote Waterfall which is the largest waterfall in Portugal and a breath-taking sight to behold.  It is advisable to take a guide or a map as it not easy to find which is why it remains relatively less publicised and explored. Plus, there is an also less famous “ghost town” in the area to make getting lost a more interesting affair.

Pego do Inferno (Hell’s Pond)

Do not be turned off by the name.  Located in Tavira, Pego do Inferno is a beautiful waterfall shaded by trees and with a nice pebble surrounding where visitors can relax, picnic or just enjoy the therapeutic view of the waterfall cascading into an emerald green lagoon. There are often a few more adventurous visitors making a splash into the lake below but it is a great relaxation point for locals and tourists alike.

Fuzeta Beaches

When travelling The Algarve, you are never far away from a beach. Fuzeta has two beaches, the first a small beach located in the town. It is ideal for families as it is wave free and quite safe. The second which is often referred to as the “real” Fuzeta Beach is the ocean side which attracts a lot of visitors in the peak of summer. The beach extends for miles so there is room for you to have a bit of privacy if you prefer.

Pera – International Sand Sculpture Festival (FIESA)

Portugal is home to the largest sand sculpture festival in the world. This is an annual mega exhibition of sand sculptures held in Pera, Algarve. This is better experienced that described. The sculptures are not the kind you are used to. These are not bucket and shovel sand works by little kids but the work of very talented artist who come from the world over to take part in this great event. The sheer size of some of them will leave you bewildered. Each year is dedicated to a different theme. It is open to the public every day from April to October and is a favourite with families.

Loulé – Carnival in Loulé

One of the famous events across the Algarve is the Loulé Carnival which is held in Loulé. Its takes place annually in February and lasts for 3 days. It is similar to Brazilian carnivals in its style –a colourful event with music, dancing, partying, with flamboyant processions. The centre of Loulé is cordoned off for this event and it you have to pay to gain access to the frenzied atmosphere on offer. In Portugal, it is customary for people to throw “water bombs” so dress prepared in case you become a target or get hit by a stray.

The Fortress of Sagres & Henry the Navigator

Located south-west of Sagres, is one of the most important places in the Algarve and Portugal. It holds monuments of national importance. From the pebble circle which was detected in 1921 and dates back to the time of Henry the Navigator to Henry the Navigator’s fortress which was built in the 15^th century. There is an also a breath-taking view from a lovely lighthouse (Europe’s second most powerful lighthouses). Sagres is an area that would be of interest to visitors who like a mixture of history and archaeology with their sea-side relaxation.

Praia da Marinha

Portugal is famous for its beaches so it is only right to end this with one. Located between Armação de Pêra and Carvoeiro, Praia da Marinha. It is a small cove beach. Put simply, it is a place that is to be seen and not written about.

Don’t miss our ‘Great Drives’ blog post with a recommended road trip around Porto.

From modern harbour towns, through medieval villages, to ancient caves – a drive through Northern Spain takes you back in time.   There’s more to this region than superb architecture.   Head south from the sandy beaches to discover rolling hills, high passes, forests, fields and Romanesque churches.

High points on route include -

1/ Pamplona – Follow in Hemingway’s footsteps

2/ Monte Igueldo, San Sebastian – Live the high life

3/ Santiago de Compostela – Holy city

4/ Guggenheim Museum – Architectural masterpiece

Click here to view the two page driving guide in full

Back in 2006 we conducted some research to ask you “if you had the choice of driving any make/model available, what would it be?” – the Audi A4 and A6 scored highest and so, in 2007, we added them to our Select Series fleet.

We are pleased to share with you that now, 5 years on, we still have the popular Audi A4 and Audi A4 Avant (estate) models. Not only that but we will soon be adding the stunning new Audi A1!

 Have you ever used Avis Select Series and have you enjoyed it? Do you enjoy driving the Audi models?

Satellite navigation used to be something you would only find in expensive cars, but now with the availability of portable Sat Nav systems, more and more people are taking advantage of these intelligent little machines.

If you haven’t got a Sat Nav system already then there are a number of reasons why you should invest in one.

• Keep getting lost? -  Pretty straight forward really, but satellite navigation gives you clear directions to wherever you want to get to. Some even let you specify if you want the quickest route or the most scenic route! By getting you there in the shortest time it also means less harm to the environment and your wallet!
• Speeding? -  Not that you should be speeding anyway…but this handy feature helps point out when you’re are approaching a speed camera and tells you what speed you are supposed to be going so that you are fully aware.

• Hungry? - Satellite navigation can tell you where the nearest restaurants are! This is great when you are in a place you have never been before!
• Running low on petrol? – Satellite navigation systems know where the nearest garages are and can direct you to the closest one so you don’t waste time (and the end of your petrol) trying to find one!
• Hate being stuck in traffic? – Some satellite navigation systems can be fed information such as where there is congestion and can then suggest routes to avoid it.

Satellite Navigation systems can be hired along with your car with Avis. You can do this by simply ticking the GPS request box during booking or by giving us a call!

Find out more information about satellite navigation with Avis here

Get Ready. Get Set. Get Away!

The Lake District is one of the true gems of the England and there’s no better time to visit than Spring.

Download our latest Avis Great Drives guide and see our recommended road trip that will show you the best of what the Lake District has to offer.

- Pick up your Avis hire car from Newcastle-upon-Tyne and head south on the A19 road to the super-stylish Seaham Hall hotel and spa.
- Take a stress-free drive on the A1M and A66 to Barnard Castle, passing through lush moorland on your way to the Lake District.
- Go through the steep Kirkstone Pass, known locally as “The Struggle”, to reach the grey stone cottages of cutesy Ambleside, on the banks of Lake Windermere.
- Park in a lay-by before the road plunges down into the town and look back at the grey of the asphalt weaving its way between green hillsides.
- From Ambleside, follow the B5385, which twists and turns its way to Coniston, then head back to Newcastle via the A595 and A69, stopping off at Birdoswald Roman Fort and the 2000 year-old village of Haltwhistle and along the way.
- It’s a quick drive east along the A69 to drop-off your Avis hire car back in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Click here to download the full guide with map and high points.

Happy driving!

Driving when you’re tired can be extremely dangerous and is one of the biggest causes of road accidents in the UK. It is therefore important to understand the risks of driving when tired and how you can avoid the dangers.

Here are some top tips to prevent you falling asleep at the wheel:

1. Take a break from driving every two hours – Try and plan a 15 minute break every 2 hours of your trip. A short stop over gives you a chance to get out of the car and wake yourself up a bit. Take a short walk, get some food and just generally wake your body up.
2. Have a good night’s sleep before any long drive – This probably sounds obvious, but if you know you have a long journey, make sure you have an early night so that you are as fresh as possible before you start.
3. Avoid making long journeys between midnight and 6am – This is when you are at your most vulnerable and most likely to fall asleep. If you can, try and stick to daytime driving only.
4. Drink coffee or high caffeine drinks – Drinking caffeine can help wake you up and increase alertness. Remember though that after the effects wear off you are likely to fall into a slump and become tired again, so keep topping your caffeine levels up to combat sleepiness effectively.
5. Share the driving – Whenever possible share the driving with others in the car. Every few hours switch the driver so that each passenger has a chance to relax and sleep.

If you feel tired when you are driving, turning up the music and opening the window can feel effective for a short period of time, however in the long run this will do little to prevent you falling asleep.

Remember – if you follow this advice and still feel tired behind the wheel, stop and take a nap. This is the most effective way to recharge and is the safest option for both you and other road users.

It’s spring! And the first four-day weekend is just around the corner. It is time to celebrate Easter for another year and, as ever, everyone is looking forward to Easter Bank Holiday (6^th – 9^th April 2012). Easter bunnies, Easter egg hunts, Easter Sunday Lunches, family entertainment, short breaks, everyone is making plans for the long weekend! 

Most people celebrate by stuffing their faces with one too many Easter eggs. However, there are others ways to enjoy the first spring time holiday. If you are searching for ideas to fit into your calendar, here are a few great ideas to consider; 

Kew Gardens – Join the annual chocolate egg hunt, chocolate making, face painting, themed tours on the Kew Explorer and storytelling in the Temple of Imagination. Alternatively, get a breath of fresh air with a self-guided walk around the botanical gardens, and let the kids loose on the new Tree-house Towers play area. 

The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt – London will be hosting the world’s biggest-ever egg hunt this Easter. Join the race to find the 200 giant decorated Easter eggs located a throughout the capital. To add extra grandeur to this event, the eggs have been created by some of the most famous names such in fashion and design including Marc Quinn, Chapman brothers, Mulberry, Sir Ridley Scott, Zandra Rhodes and many more. Each egg has a unique SMS keyword which you send to a dedicated text number. The search for designer eggs at Fabergé Easter egg hunt across London is on. Participants have a chance of winning a Fabergé Diamond Jubilee Egg worth more than £100,000. 

E4 Udderbelly Festival 2012 – Enjoy the return of this great three month festival of stand-up comedy, cabaret, music and dance on London’s South Bank. The Udderbelly brings some of the best UK and international acts to London. Staged in an inflatable purple cow, the 410-capacity Udderbelly tent is in the shape of an upside-down purple cow – sits on the banks of the Thames between the London Eye and Royal Festival Hall. Don’t miss fantastic shows at this unique venue. Some of the acts at this year’s events include Tim Minchin, Andi Osho, Havana Rumba, Friday Night Freakshow and many more. 

The Passion at Trafalgar Square – Taking place on the 6^th of April (12 noon and 3:15pm), you can celebrate the start of Easter at Passion in the Square – a free recreation of the dramatic events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. With over 70 actors taking part and a variety period costumes, this open air play is a great events for those who would like to reconnect with the story at the heart of the Easter holidays.

 Soul by the Sea Brighton’s Easter Festival 2012 – Held on Brighton’s seafront by Madeira Drive on the 7-8th April 2012, this Festival includes performances from leading artists and entertainers. This Easter Festival held in Brighton is. However, it is a two day festival with the Saturday 7^th April (11am-5.30pm) being a celebration of Easter through music and performing arts for all ages. On Easter Sunday, from 2pm-5pm, you will get the chance to see the Passion of Christ play similar to “The Passion at Trafalgar Square”. 

Easter Skate Eggstravaganza – Starts at 7pm Friday 6th April 2012 on Good Friday with the Long Good Friday Night Skate - a 3 hour skate past London’s most-loved visitor attractions which leaves from Hyde Park Corner. The Easter Bunny Stroll on Easter Sunday starts at 2pm and is the one to get dressed up for. Bunny girls (and boys) will strut their stuff on an 8 mile relaxed roll on a high profile route around London’s West End. As it is Easter Sunday, after the skate there’s an Egg & Spoon Race on Serpentine Road in Hyde Park. And the evening fun continues at 7pm with the Easter Bunny Party for boogieing bunnies! 

The Boat Race – with over 300,000 spectators expected, this a great events for those looking for a sporty outdoor event in London. This is the 158th Boat Race between crews from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. First raced in 1829 The Boat Race is one of the oldest sporting events in the world. Witness the four-and-a-quarter-mile course from Putney to Mortlake on the afternoon of Saturday April 7, starting at 2.15pm. The Boat Race website has detailed information for spectators, including a section on walking the course. 

Whatever and wherever you do decide to enjoy the Easter holidays, should you need car hire services to get around- choose Avis.  What are your plans this Easter?

We know that renting a car for the first time can sometimes be a daunting thought.  That’s why at Avis ‘We Try Harder’ to make that process as smooth, accessible and consumer friendly as possible. We provide rental agreements in a number of different languages and pride ourselves of having transparent and easy to understand pricing that is clear for all to see.

I would like to take a moment to explain to you what’s included in your Avis quote when you book a car. Essentially it’s everything you need to take the car and drive off on your journey.

When you make a booking in the UK our quote includes:

• The cost of the hiring the vehicle which includes unlimited mileage. (Mileage subject to T&Cs).
• Vehicle licence fees
• Any City or airport surcharge if applicable (an additional charge at premium locations where the rent is higher).
• Vehicle Damage cover (Subject to an excess)
• Vehicle Theft cover. (Subject to an excess)
• Third Party Insurance.
• VAT ((Value Added Tax) or any other tax if renting from outside the UK)

Important note if renting in the US
If you book on the US website, www.avis.com, you may find that Vehicle Damage Cover and Vehicle Theft Cover are not included, as some American credit cards provide insurance for car hire.

As you can see this list provides everything in one quote for you to drive off in your hire car straight away. However, we believe in making your journey as hassle free as possible. That’s why we also provide other great products, at additional charges, to ensure you have complete peace of mind.

What’s not included in your quote, but available to purchase:

Additional insurance cover – Our Premier Cover package (or the similar Super Damage Cover in many countries outside the UK) provides the following additional insurance cover (on top of the basic cover included in your quote):

• CDW (Collision Damage Waver) – reduces your car hire insurance excess down to £100, giving you peace of mind when you’re on your journey. This also means we don’t need to take a hefty security deposit (unlike other car rental firms!)
• PAI (Personal Accident Insurance) – giving you cover for medical expenses in the event of an accident
• The Unexpected – covers you for those events you weren’t planning on, such as losing your luggage or even your house keys

Windscreen Protection – reduces the insurance excess to zero which means you pay nothing in the event of damage to the front windscreen.

Additional Driver – only the driver named on the rental agreement is covered as standard, but you can add extra named drivers for an additional one-off cost.

Fuel – we offer three simple ways to refuel your vehicle, saving you the hassle of doing so.  Visit our fuel options page for more details.

GPS – to make getting from A to B that much easier and stress free with an Avis GPS  satellite navigation device (available from most major UK, European and US locations)

Child & Booster Seats – it’s a legal requirement for children to use one of these seats if they are under 12 years of age, or, under 135cm (which ever comes first). See website for more details.

Do I need to pay a deposit?  And do I need a credit card?
If you have prepaid for your car hire then at the start of the rental we will gain authorisation for the estimated charge that is signed for at the start of your rental agreement (for additional charges such as fuel or GPS, special equipment etc).  This amount is held against your credit card until the car is returned. If you have chosen to ‘pay later’ for your hire car then the rental cost will also be held on your credit card.

This is held against your account therefore limiting how much you can withdraw by this amount, so could be considered as a deposit.  However, your account will only be physically debited when the final amount is calculated at the end of the rental.

We don’t normally rent to people unless they have a credit card, but there may be some exceptions depending on the location and advance arrangements. In such an event you’d be asked to provide 3 recent proofs of identity, e.g. a utility bill dated within last 3 months, and to leave a cash deposit of £250 in the UK (sometimes much higher than that in other countries). I must emphasise though that such an arrangement is the exception rather than the rule, must be agreed in advance with the station manager and won’t be allowed at all on certain car groups and in certain locations

If you have a query about what you’ve been quoted, please contact our Customer Support team