Driving Across State Lines In A Rental Car

car hire locations in Wales

Cross State Car Rental

It is very common that we get customers wanting to rent a car in the USA and travel around several states in the USA and sometimes cross the border into Canada. For this reason, we decided it would be a good idea to let you know what options are available when it comes to car rental for your road trip.

Car Rental Across State Lines?

As mentioned above it is a frequent occurrence that people request to rent a car and travel around multiple states. We are happy to announce that most vehicles rented in USA are eligible to drive throughout the USA and Canada with no restrictions and free of charge. The term most means that there are some restrictions with this, for example, vehicles classes like Exotics, Large Passenger, Cargo Vans and some other specialty vehicles are not eligible to travel into Canada. If you need any further confirmation on this, contact our team and we will be happy to answer any of your questions.

One Way Car Rental Across State Lines?

Yes, we can offer one way car rental across state lines. This means that if you would like to rent a car and take the famous Route 66 or any other USA road trip, you can drop off at the end point. This can save you a lot of time and means you don’t have to worry about planning a circular trip to drop off your car at the end.

Can I Rent A Car In USA And Travel Across The Border To Mexico?

Yes, this is possible when you book with us, however in order to cross into Mexico you are required to take extra insurance. This is because the standard insurance that comes when you rent a vehicle does not cover you while you are in Mexico. If you are considering travelling into Mexico, we recommend you contact our team so we can ensure you are with the right supplier and have the correct insurance.

If you are interested in any of the above offers, we suggest you call us before making a booking. This is because some of the offers are exclusive to certain suppliers. Our team will make sure you get selected with the supplier that best meets your needs to help you get the best price for your car rental. You can contact us by calling us on +44 (0)113 880 0748, emailing us at sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk or by using the live chat function.

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Top 5 Ski Locations In USA & Canada

Top 5 Ski Locations In USA & Canada

Ski Season

It is getting close to the time of year where it’s time to pack your bags and get wrapped up to enjoy a holiday of skiing. I have previously written a blog on the top 5 ski location in Europe, but I felt USA and Canada have so many amazing ski resorts they deserved their own blog. With that being said, here are my top 5 ski locations in USA & Canada.

Telluride, Colorado

Telluride has a beautiful setting, and with 170 inches of snow mixed with 240 says of sun every year, it makes it ideal for skiing. The skiing facilities live up to the location, with many lifts that take you to various slopes, including the longest, Galloping Goose, which consists of 4.6 miles of terrain to ski down. If you are feeling adventurous and want to push yourself why not try out heli-skiing, where a helicopter will take you to places that the lifts can’t reach. Alternatively, you can try something brand new with the kids, Snowbiking is available here.

How to get to Telluride, Colorado

There are several airports at different distances away. For the majority you are looking at between 1 and 3 hours travel at the other side before you reach the mountain village. One of the best ways to complete this journey is by hiring a car. We offer ski car hire at a lot of airports; this means you will have everything you need to keep you safe when driving in the snow. Please check out the airports below to find out which suits your travel needs best.

Montrose-Telluride Regional Airport (MTJ) – 75 minutes journey
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) – 15 minutes journey
Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) – 2 1/2 hours journey
Durango-La Plata Regional Airport (DRO) – 2 1/2 hours journey

Lake Louise Mountain, Alberta

Lake Louise Mountain is a ski resort in the Canadian Province of Alberta. The resort itself lies in Banff National Park which has been accredited as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which already makes this a great location to ski. With over 4,200 acres that spread across 4 different mountain faces each having runs for beginner, intermediate and experts, there will be certainly be something for you. The resort has over 140 runs in total with the longest one lasting for five miles, so you can take in the natural beauty that surrounds you as you rush down the mountainside.

How to get to Lake Louise Mountain, Alberta

With only 1 obvious airport to fly to, the choice is easy. There is a 1 hour 30-minute journey once you land which takes you along scenic roads. The best way to take in all the scenery and stop off for pictures when you want is to travel independently with your own car. We can supply you with car hire, just get in contact with our team and we will help you find the best offer for your needs.

Calgary International Airport (YYC) – 1 ½ hours journey

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

Whitefish Mountain Resort is in the Western state of Montana. This resort has runs that start from the top of mountains in which you can enjoy a 365-degree views including the Glacier National Park. The area is full of welcoming locals and in the Winter, you can easily grab yourself a bargain on your hotel. Across the 105 trails that are serviced by 11 lifts, you will find a lot of crowd-free space to ski as you wish on the runs. If you go at the right time of year you can enjoy night skiing where you can take to the slopes at night and ski under the lights.

How to get to Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

There are a couple of airports in the nearby area, with one been significantly closer. Depending on where you are flying from, one may be easier to fly to than the other. Whichever you decide to fly to, it might be a good idea to hire a car. This way you can get to your accommodation at your own pace and have the freedom to explore the surrounding areas while you are there.

Missoula International Airport (MSO) – 2 ½ hours journey
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) – 30-minute journey

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

Whistler Blackcomb is in the Westernmost Canadian Province, British Columbia. With over 8,000 acres of terrain, including 240 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers, that can be reached by 36 lifts. In fact, there is so many runs you can ski for a full week without touching the same run twice. Better still, you can ski here year-round meaning you can even ski in June and July. There is a good mix of runs ranging from complete newbie to expert, meaning whatever your skill level there is something for you. After a long day skiing, there is many après-ski options including great bars and excellent restaurants.

How to get to Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

There are 3 options, with 1 of the options been a lot further away and including a border crossing. However, it is up to you to decide what will suit your holiday the best. Once you are at any of the airports, you will need a method of transportation to get to Whistler itself. There are some shuttles, but if you want to be independent and have the freedom to stop off where you like, you can hire a car. We offer ski car hire at many airport locations, this includes snow chains, ski racks and GPS to help you find your way. If you are interested in hiring a car for your skiing holiday, please get in touch with our team.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) – 2 hours journey
Bellingham International Airport (BLI) – 2 ½ hours journey
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – 4 hours journey

Big White, British Columbia

Another ski resort found in the Canadian Province of British Columbia. This resort is the largest ski-in/ski-out village meaning you can set off and return to the village, all without taking off your skis. The area is well known for powder skiing and with 2,765 acres of ski area there is lots to practice on. Due to its location and the amount of snow that falls there is a lot of snow for most of the year. The resort also boasts night skiing facilities and with over 83 acres of snow under the lights, it is Western Canada’s largest night skiing resort. Aside from the slopes, there is a host of activities for the kids and adults too so you will never be short of stuff to do.

How to get to Big White, British Columbia

There are only 2 airports nearby the Big White resort, with one been a lot closer. If you are travelling from Europe, the chances are you will need to get a connecting flight. Once you land at the airport of your choice, you will need a method of transportation. You can either, use the shuttle from Kelowna Airport or hire a car. If you wish to hire a car, please contact our team to discuss your travel arrangements in order to let us secure the best deal for you.

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) – 1 hour journey
Kamloops Airport (YKA) – 3 hours journey

If you decide to visit any of these resorts or anywhere else for that matter, we have your car hire covered. We offer ski car hire at various locations across the USA and Canada, we can provide car hire with the following…
4×4’s
Winter Tyres
– Ski Rack
– GPS
– Snow Chains
Unfortunately, not everything listed above is available at every location. We recommend that you call or email us prior to making your booking, this allows us to find you the best deal for what you need.

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Top 5 Destinations For Labor Day Weekend

TOP 5 DESTINATIONS FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

What is Labor Day?

Labor Day was created back in 1882 when a Labor union leader proposed that there should be a celebration honoring the American worker. Since then, Labor Day has been held annually on the first Monday in September. This date was chosen because it lies in the middle of the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving. Although Labor Day is still celebrated today the focus of the day has diminished and is now a day that marks the end of the summer season and start of the school year. This makes it the perfect time to squeeze in one last vacation before Fall arrives. There are plenty of destinations to choose from, here are my Top 5 Destinations for Labor Day Weekend.

Iceland

A nature wonderland, boasting hot springs you can swim in and towering mountains you can climb, it’s the ideal place to unwind before Fall properly begins. You can even take advantage of the once in a lifetime opportunity at Silfra, to snorkel between two continents in some of the clearest water in the world. Alternatively, you can partake in glacier hikes or visit one of the many waterfalls that are scattered around Iceland. If you love mother nature and natural beauty you won’t want to leave Iceland once you are there.

Mexico

Despite been in the rainy season over Labor Day weekend, Mexico has plenty to offer, whatever the weather. Mexico is also on the doorstep of southern USA, so if you live in the south, Mexico might be the cheap getaway you’re looking for this Labor Day. Mexico is rich in history and historic buildings can be found around every corner. With over 150 museums, you’ll have no problem finding somewhere to visit on a rainy day. If the history doesn’t persuade you to go, try visiting Cancun. Here you can party the night away and finish Summer with a bang.

Canada

From the South to the North, Canada is only around the corner from the north of USA and it has lots to offer, whatever your taste. Another destination packed with natural wonders, the most obvious been the Niagara Falls that you can find in Ontario. The nature doesn’t stop there, you can watch whales In Vancouver or visit the picture-perfect Lake Louise, a glacial lake that is surrounded by peaks and trees. If nature is not your thing, try exploring the one and a half square mile underground city in Montreal. Canada has lots to offer and is a great place to spend a relaxing Labor Day without breaking the bank.

Hawaii

For many people Hawaii is a dream vacation location and for good reason, but why not visit for Labor Day weekend? Spend your weekend visiting volcanoes or relaxing on the white sand beaches that surround the island. You might even get to swim with Turtles If you’re lucky! Unlike other destinations on this list you will be glad to hear that the weather is dry and warm at this time of year, making it perfect location to top up your tan for the last time this year. If you want to relax in the sun and be surrounded by a beautiful landscape, Hawaii is the place for you.

Jamaica

Although a slightly longer Journey than most locations on this list, the trip is definitely worth it. The average temperature is over 82 Degrees Fahrenheit meaning the sun is never far away. Spend the day relaxing on the white beaches that spread across the island and maybe try snorkeling in the blue waters that border the island. Not to mention, the haunted mansion waiting to be explored and an array of sea life you can get up close and personal with at dolphin cove. If you are looking for warm weather and lazy days at the beach, Jamaica is where you should spend your Labor Day.

Whatever you decided to do, make sure you have a great Labor Day! If you choose to travel and need car rental, get in contact with our team so we can get you the best deal.

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Car Hire For New Drivers In North America

Car Leasing For 21 Year Olds

At Indigo Car Hire we have been working on expanding our options available for new drivers, and finally we are happy to announce that we are now able to offer car hire in North America to drivers that have held their licence for less than one year! We’ve put together this handy FAQ below to answer any questions you might have about USA Car Rental & Canada Car Hire:

What restrictions are in place for new drivers?

The only restrictions in place are that you must be at least 21 years old and must have received your physical licence – so even if you got it the day before you hire this wouldn’t be a problem at all! This applies to any licence written in English or EU licences, otherwise you would just need bring an international driving permit also.

What locations am I available to hire from?

We have locations at all the major airports on the 49 mainland states as well as most Canadian provinces. We also have a few downtown locations as well, just contact us directly if looking for a specific city as it would be impossible to list them all!

Are there any limitations in place on the size of car I can drive?

Not at all – you can hire any car that an experienced driver can, including luxury Mustang convertibles and large 15-seat minibuses. Here’s a handy guide on the types of vehicles we have available to rent in the US and Canada:

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In conjunction with car hire for new drivers, we can also offer the following services with it:

Debit Card Hire
Free additional drivers
Low deposits
Young and senior driver hire

When looking for new driver car hire or any of the above services please contact us directly on 0044(0)113880078 or email us at sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk as these options cannot be booked on the website.

North America is not the only place we have options available for new drivers also, feel free to take a look at our page for info on new driver hire available in the UK.

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Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental

Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental

News Flash Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental

Indigo Car Hire is announcing the expansion of its operations in Canada and starting from this month is offering: Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental.

We are aware of the fact the credit cards aren’t used by more than a third of world population, and we are always trying to make our services available to more people.
As most of our suppliers run a credit card only policy, providing Car Rental Without Credit Card in Montreal Airport was a must for us.

Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, formerly known as Montréal–Dorval International Airport is the fourth-busiest airport in Canada.
With more than 14 million passengers every year, and covering many international destinations, Montreal Airport is an important travel hub for tourist all around the world.

Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental Conditions

Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental Conditions are easy to be met as our Car Hire Experts tried to make them accessible to everyone.
The car rental conditions refer to the debit cards accepted and to the car rental deposit.

IThe debit card must meet the restrictions set by the suppliers. To check if your card meets the restrictions, please contact us via call or email prior to booking.

The second condition for Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental refers to the rental deposit. At this location the deposit is equal to the rental amount. So if your car rental cost is 250 GBp, the rental deposit will also be 250 GBP.

Usually when you pay with debit cards like Visa or MasterCard, the deposit is just held on your card and released after the car is retuned, but the refunding period is up to 10 working days.

Indigo Car Hire Montreal Airport Offers also Include

Montreal is a city in the Canadian province of Quebec and the second largest city in Canada. Named by UNESCO the “City of Design”, Montreal is an important economical, cultural and touristic centre.
Montreal is very often mistaken with a European city due to its Parisian-style streets and architecture.

For more information about Montreal Airport Debit Card Car Rental, or in any location in
Canada, please contact us over the phone on +44 (0)113 880 0748 or via email on sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk

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Tips! Winter Driving In North America

Winter Driving In North America

North America and Canada have some of the best driving roads in the world and are perfect for a road trip. Summer tends to be the best time if you are considering a road trip, but what if you are coming in winter, touring between ski resorts or simply trying to get to your destination can be a harzardous drive.

For most of us, winter means a chill in the air and a bit of slush on the roads…. In North America and Canada it is much more than that, winters can bring truly awful weather, heavy rain, thick snow, ice and fog. All of which mean driving conditions are dangerous.

Here are some tips for Winter Driving In North America

If you’re new to driving in winter, pretend you’re driving a limo and the passengers in the back have full champagne glasses, if they spill their drinks, you’ll lose your tip!!

  • Accelerate slowly and gently, especially after stopping.
  • Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual beween you and the car in front.
  • Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
  • Decelerate even more slowly and gently, and plan to stop at a point about ten feet closer than you usually would, to give room to slide if the road is slippery.
  • Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
  • Drive slowly. Don’t drive the speed limit until you feel confident that road conditions warrant it. In very poor winter driving conditions, you will find that almost everyone drives 10/20 mph below the posted speed limit.
  • Keep your lights and windscreen clean, to make it easier to see road conditions ahead.

Is It The Right Car

Firstly, is the vehicle you intend to drive upto the job? If I was going to be driving 400 miles from Portland to Whistler then I wouldnt be going in my Alfa Romeo no matter what condition it was in. I would be straight on the phone booking a hire car, preferably something with 4WD or AWD.

Preparing The Vehicle

Is your car set up for the worst scenario? If you are travelling somewhere that has a chance of adverse weather then you and your vehicle should be prepared for it.

  • Ensure the tyres are in good condition and are inflated to the recommended pressures.
  • Ensure the battery is in good working order.
  • Check the brakes & hand brake.
  • Check all fluids such as oil, fuel, water and screen wash are topped up.

Overlooking any one of the above could end your journey early and you could potentially find yourself stuck and waiting for a rescue vehicle. So:

Preparing The Passengers

Are you and your passengers prepared for the same scenario? If you are stuck and awaiting rescue then there are basics that you will need.

  • Are there enough warm clothes blankets to keep you all warm?
  • Is there enough food and drink?
  • Do you have a way of contacting someone in an emergency?

The safety of your passengers, yourself and other road users is the most important thing when travelling in adverse weather conditions.

Slow Down! Dont rush, leave with plenty of time to get there.
Assume the worst! When you drive away from your parking spot, take at least five minutes of driving, and preferably 10-15 minutes, to get a feel for the road conditions.

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Top 10 SKi Resorts In North America

Top 10 SKi Resorts In North America

With winter closing in fast, our tans are fading as our minds quickly forget about the week in the sun we had during the summer holidays and start to think about a winter break. Some of us like to chase the sun in winter and head to the mediterranean. Others (myself included) cant wait for the snow to arrive… It’s those people that will probably want to read on.

If you are looking for a new winter holiday location in Canada or the USA then look no further, here are our…

Top 10 SKi Resorts In North America

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole refers to a 48-mile long valley surrounded by jagged mountain peaks and includes the towns of Jackson, Kelly, Moose, Moran, Wilson, and Teton Village. Known to early settlers as Jackson’s Hole, the area has been renowned since its discovery in the early 1800’s for its incredible natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. Featuring three legendary ski resorts, Jackson Hole is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts and the perfect destination for your Wyoming ski vacation! Ski Jackson Hole this winter and experience the perfect deep powder conditions the area is famous for.

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

Beyond Whistler Blackcomb’s 8,000+ acres of incredibly varied terrain, its mile-long vertical and its dedication to grooming more terrain than anywhere else in North America, is an experience so unique that it’s hard to measure. It’s about our abundant and reliable snow, our friendly vibrant village and a vibe that encourages visitors to push their limits – whether it’s ticking every run on the map or attempting to eat at every award-winning restaurant in the village.

Squaw Valley, California

As host of the 1960 Winter Olympics, the Squaw Valley legacy has maintained a vibrant ski culture and mountain energy that spans from village to peak. Its spirit of outdoor adventure is reflected by the views of Lake Tahoe’s translucent waters, and its inspiration is carved into the slopes of the Sierra mountains. Beginners will find forgiving learning zones set among dramatic alpine scenery, while varied trails, bowls and chutes mean that skiers and snowboarders will never outgrow Squaw’s progressive terrain. With consistent snowfall that stays around well into the spring, Squaw Valley boasts one of the longest ski and snowboard seasons in the country.

Top ten SKi Resorts In North AmericaSnowbird, Utah

Offering 3,240 vertical feet of award-winning terrain enjoyed by all skill levels of skiers and riders, Snowbird boasts Utah’s longest ski season and annually averages 500 inches of lovely white snow. Snowbird offers a 125-passenger Aerial Tram that zooms from an elevation of 8,100 feet to 11,000 feet in about 8 minutes, taking skiers to Hidden Peak and the infamous 21/2 mile Chip’s Run. Along the way, skiers are transported into a fanciful world of spectacular scenery, amazing powder and superb customer service.

Revelstoke, British Columbia

The recently expanded Revelstoke Mountain Resort has brought a lot of new people to town. Having the longest lift-accessed vertical in North America (1,713m/5,620ft) may have something to do with that, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. The fact is, although it has become a major winter destination, Revelstoke is not one of those chic, “cookie-cutter” ski villages. For more than a hundred years, Revelstoke has been a railroad town (the Canadian Pacific Railway is still the town’s second largest employer) and the place resonates with down to earth authenticity and friendliness.

Taos, New Mexico

This family owned ski area rarely has lift lines and boasts the top rated ski school in North America. With 110 trails, 305 inch average annual snowfall and 300+ days of sunshine, Taos Ski Valley is a true skier’s and snowboarder’s paradise. In 2012 the Forest Service authorized Taos Ski Valley to develop 2 new chairlifts, 2 new gladed runs, a snowtubing area, mountain biking & snowshoeing trails & a new drop-off at the base area, all of this adds up to making your ski holiday here one to remember.

Moonlight Basin, Montana

At Moonlight Basin, you’ll discover some of the best skiing and winter recreation in North America. Moonlight provides quick and easy access to 5750 acres of incredible terrain, with 4350 vertical feet, 23 chairlifts, and terrain ranging from pristine groomers to some of the most extreme inbound terrain in North America, skiers and riders of all skill levels are sure to find their perfect run. Off the slopes, members, residents and visitors can enjoy a wide variety of resort amenities like luxury spas, dining options to suit every palate, and an Apres ski experience featuring live music and the best in Montana microbrews and spirits.

Kicking Horse, British Columbia

Each year at Kicking Horse they average more than 7 meters (23 feet) of some of the lightest, driest and deepest powder snow on the planet. The majestic mountains surrounding us, and our phenomenal snow pack, are the reasons why the area has such historic mountain culture. It’s also why it is surrounded by the highest concentration of beautiful back-country lodges, off piste skiing, and mechanized ski operations in all of Canada. With one of the longest vertical descents in North America, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a spectacular big mountain experience.

Mount Baker, Washington

Mt. Baker Ski Area, in Northern Washington, is a powderhound mecca. The ski area averages the most annual snowfall, 641 inches, in the entire world and holds the record for most snowfall in a single season, 1,140 inches in the ’98-’99 season. The ski area also annually plays host to the largest snowboard race in the world with 240 competitors in its Legendary Banked Slalom.

Silverton, Colorado

Silverton Mountain is a unique mountain experience. There is one chairlift that takes you into a high alpine environment surrounded by amazing ski lines in every direction. The terrain is entirely for the advanced and expert skier and those who enjoy adventure. Silverton Mountain operates in a one of a kind fashion in that certain times of year it provides guided only skiing with small amounts of skiers on a daily basis, and other times of year it allows unguided skiing. Avalanche gear is required to ride the lift at all times.

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Debit Cards Without A Name

Payment Methods

We have recently had an issue with a customer that booked a car to collect from Heathrow Airport, the customer did not have a credit card so we booked her a vehicle with a supplier that we know accepts debit cards.

There are certain restictions when using debit cards which can be found here and her card passed, the booking was accepted and the customer was looking forward to arriving and collecting her car.

The problem arose when the customer arrived to collect her vehicle, the debit card provided by her bank did not have her name on it. Luckily the supplier allowed the customer to leave a cash deposit to secure the vehicle, which is a very rare thing to happen but as an Indigo customer they trusted her.

This is the first time we have come across Debit Cards Without A Name so needed to look into it further. Apparently some banks in North Amercia, Canada and Malaysia do provide debit cards that do not have the account holders name on it.

These cards can still be accepted by some suppliers but they will need proof that the card belongs to the person intending to hire the vehicle.

There is only really one way to prove that the card belongs to the hirer and that is to provide a letter of authenticity or a bank statement showing the same account details along with the holders name and address. These details must match the information on the driving licence and passport.

We have now changed our qualifying criteria to include asking our customers if their name is physically on the card, rather than asking if it is in their name as we did before.

When it comes to hiring a car with any type of debit card, the first thing you should do is contact us before getting a quote or booking a vehicle. We can qualify your card and get you booked in with a supplier that matches your needs. You can call us on +44 (0)113 880 0748, chat with us online or email us on sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk.

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One Day One Way Car Hire

We had a quite recent customer with the unusual predicament of wanting to move away from the UK to Canada with a rather large family. Usually this wouldn’t be an issue if it was a holiday, but since she wanted to completely emigrate, and with wanting to emigrate she wanted a fresh start so she cancelled her credit card just before planning to move away. Since her current residence was Blackpool and she was departing from Gatwick she realised she needed to hire a car to get from home to the airport. (more…)

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