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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Top 5 Winter Sun Holiday Destinations

Top 5 Winter Sun Holiday Destinations

People tend in winter to head off skiing, or to somewhere cold just to get in the mood. There’s a few of us however that enjoy escaping the cold weather and going somewhere warm for the winter, so where are the best places to escape to get a nice bit of sun in December? We have compiled our Top 5 Winter Sun Holiday Destinations to share with you guys and give you some ideas.

Top 5 Winter Sun Holiday Destinations by Indigo

#5 Cape Town – South Africa
It’s in another hemisphere to the UK, meaning warmth! Cape Town boasts an amazing scenery, great beaches and fantastic places to wine and dine with fabulous local food. The city in South Africa is popular no matter the time of year but it’s a fantastic place to consider for winter due to its lovely warm climate, perhaps the best part of the holiday would be the fact there would be no jet lag! Cape Town is in the same time zone as the UK.

#4 Sydney Australia
Sydney is Australia’s most famous and largest city and the capital of New South Wales. Sydney offers a lot of spectacular driving routes, one being the Grand Pacific Drive.
This spectacular drive does through the Stanwell Tops, the winding Sea Cliff Bridge and also has glamorous views of the golden beaches that Australia is known for.

#3 Paphos – Cyprus
Even in the coldest months you will find yourself out in a t shirt and shorts bracing the warm weather. Paphos is a city right on the coastline of the Mediterranean in Cyprus, enjoy the fantastic beaches, warm ocean and beach side restaurants this winter. Paphos won’t let you down, it’s everything you expect!

#2 Tenerife – Canary Islands (Spain)
Summer all the time, all the Canary island destinations are popular in winter including Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and so on but Tenerife just edges it and not just because its flag looks like the Scotland one. Tenerife is one of the only places in winter you can kick back in your swimming trunks and in the distance see the tops of mountains covered in snow, you get that winter feeling even without meaning too!

#1 Miami – Florida
With more than 800 miles of beaches and world class attractions, Florida is one of the places you must visit at least once in your life time.
Miami is one of Florida’s top attractions, due its famous beaches, legendary resorts, world class shopping and historic landmarks.
Miami, among other things is a business hub and leader in media, entertainment arts, commerce, finance and culture leading to its nickname ‘Capital of Latin America’. Miami was also rated Americas Cleanest City by Forbes magazine.

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Winter Tyres When Driving Abroad

Even when driving a hired car YOU are responsible for having it equipped and controlled correctly in order to meet the guidelines of the location you are within. One of the common fines that you may be surprised to find out about is for not having snow tyres.

Winter tyres when driving abroad can be required by law, in some European countries this is the case and often people don’t realise it as they overlook this law due to the fact it’s only a minority of countries that require winter tyres so it’s not seen as an issue, despite the minority it’s still for your safety as the reason for snow tyres being mandatory is that the winter can be harsher within these countries.

In Austria, Finland, Germany and Sweden winter tyres are all mandatory within certain dates during winter.

Many people hire cars in France and drive to Sweden as it’s often a cheaper option but people forget or just don’t know the winter tyre law, due to the fact it’s not mandatory within France so don’t be the one who gets caught out and always find out if winter tyres are needed for the location you are going too.

Even if you claim it’s not your fault that the car you hired doesn’t have winter tyres it won’t stand everything on the car you are driving no matter the circumstance is up to you and you are liable for it.

Always check with us if you are unsure on the legal complications of the location that you are travelling. In some of the countries mentioned previous where winter tyres are mandatory you may be able to get away with snow chains as a temporary fix, they will allow visitors snow chains but however won’t allow residents within that country to have summer tyres with snow chains. These change completely dependent on your location as mentioned before so always try to make sure as you may be slapped with an unexpected fine with you being unable to dispute.

We put together a list with Winter Condition Driving in most of the European Countries. If you have any other questions about winter car hire conditions, please contact one of our Car Hire experts at: on +44 (0)113 880 0748 or email us at sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk

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Christmas Car Hire Countdown Has Begun

With less than 100 days left until Christmas, the Christmas Car Hire Countdown Has Begun.We believe now is the best time to arrange your car hire. Many car rental suppliers tend to increase the prices over the Christmas period. This is where Indigo Car Hire differs. We are able to offer reduced rates for your car hire over the festive season. This is because we have a large network of suppliers, so you can always be sure that you can get a car when you book with Indigo.

Best UK Christmas Car Hire Locations

If you are already based within the UK, you can collect the vehicle from one of our hundreds of city and train station locations? With over 25,000 locations located around the world you can get your hire car from pretty much any area.

We have a vast array of vehicles for your Christmas Car Hire needs. With cars ranging from small economical city cars right up to large people carriers and estate vehicles. One of the more popular choices tends to be a 4×4 vehicle. With colder weather and often hazardous road conditions prevailing during the winter months a 4×4 car hire can often be a sensible choice, these types of vehicles tend to offer more security and stability when driving on icy and snowy roads.

Top Christmas Car Hire Services

  • Debit Card Christmas Car Hire
  • Young Driver Christmas Car Hire
  • No Deposit Christmas Car Hire
  • Ski Car Hire

Whether you need to get your Christmas car hire to get around, doing a little shopping or if you need the vehicle to go and see some family and friends over the festive season you can always counting on Indigo Car Hire to get you the best option.

In case you will decide you want to spend the Christmas day skiing, Indigo offers its services in some of the best Ski Locations in the World

SKI CAR HIRE Top LOCATIONS

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France
Italy
Austria
Switzerland
Norway
Bulgaria
Sweden
Andorra

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Geneva Airport
Innsbruck Airport
Munich Airport
Milan Linate Airport
Grenoble Airport
Montpellier Airport
Calgary Airport
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Zurich Airport
Salzburg Airport
Milan Malpensa Airport
Lyon Airport
Sofia Airport
Toronto Airport
Helsinki Airport
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Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Alta and Snowbird, Utah
Vail, Colorado
Alpine Meadows, California

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[bra_toggle collapsable=’yes’ caption=’Canada Top Ski Locations’]

Quebec
Alberta
British Columbia

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