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Car Hire In Czech Republic With Winter Tyres

October 13, 2019 Czech Republic, Winter, winter car rental Comments Off on Car Hire In Czech Republic With Winter Tyres
Winter tyres in Belgium

About Czech Republic

Czech Republic has become increasingly popular with tourists and now attracts 20 million tourists every year. The capital city, Prague is the most popular place among tourists which accommodates a preserved medieval old town, 9th century castle and countless other historic point of interest. In Czech Republic, you can also take to the slopes and visit one of the many resorts that offer ski holidays.

If you are going skiing or visiting in the Winter for any other reason, you need to make sure you are aware of the laws that are in place. We have researched and managed to fit all the information you need into one blog. Beneath is all the information you will need to know about winter tyres, snow chains and ski racks.

Are Winter Tyres A Legal Requirement In Czech Republic?

Yes, between 1st November and 1st April, it is a legal requirement that your car is equipped with winter tyres. As it is a legal requirement, when you hire a car, winter tyres will be fit as standard and the price will automatically reflect this.

Do I Need Snow Chains In Czech Republic?

Yes, where it is instructed you are required to use snow chains. It might be possible to divert and travel a different way to avoid any roads that require snow chains. If you are not sure if you will need them, sometimes it is better to take them as you might regret it later. Snow chains can be added to your rental for 25 EUR for the duration of your rental.

What Else Should I Consider?

If you are planning to take your skis with you, you will need a way to transport your skis. The easiest way to do this is to hire a ski rack when you book your car. A ski rack can be added to your rental from 25 EUR for the rental period. This price is subject to availability and if the supplier who offer this price is not available, we will place you with the next cheapest option. Please keep in mind that the ski racks can only hold 2 sets of skis. Should you need to take more than 2 sets of skis it might be worth considering hiring a larger car to accommodate your skis. If you have any questions of concerns in regards to ski car hire, please get in contact with us.

If you make use of our cross border car hire offer, it is important to know the laws of any country you will be visiting. It is your responsibility to make sure you comply with any laws, failure to do so may result in complications with the local law enforcement and could also make your insurance void. If you need to add anything extra, you must to this when booking your car.

We always recommend calling us if you wish to book a car, especially if you have exact requirements. Our team is always happy to help with any questions or concerns to make sure you have the smoothest car hire experience. Get in touch with us today!

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Hiring A Car In Sweden With Winter Tyres

September 19, 2019 Sweden, Winter Comments Off on Hiring A Car In Sweden With Winter Tyres
Winter car hire Lithuania

Car Hire With Winter Tyres In Sweden

Sweden is located in Scandinavia in northern Europe, it is a diverse country with a range of food, music, fashion and tradition. While you are there, you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and many places of interest like the Stockholm Palace and several museums. The country also has a good amount of ski resorts that will please any skier whether you’re an expert or beginner.

If you plan to travel in the Winter to make the most of the slopes, you need to know what is required by law regarding your car. We have collected all the information you might need when hiring a car in Sweden in Winter and condensed it into one blog. Below you will find all the information you may require about snow chains, winter tyres and ski racks.

Do I Legally Need Winter Tyres In Sweden?

Yes, between 1st December and 31st March it is a legal requirement to have your car equipped with winter tyres. To keep it simple for you, winter tyres are fit as standard when you hire a car at this time of year and the cost is included in the full price. As well as this, you are also required to carry a shovel in your boot, this will also be provided by the car hire supplier.

Do I Need Snow Chains In Winter In Sweden?

No, in Sweden there is no legal requirement to carry snow chains in your car. For this reason we do not have snow chains available to include when booking your car hire.

What else should I consider?

If you are hiring a car and plan to bring your skis, you will need somewhere to safely store your skis while you travel. We have ski racks that can be included when you book, unfortunately we do not have a set price for this as the price varies depending on location. If you would like to include a ski racks call or email our team to enquire about prices. The ski racks carry 2 sets of skis, so if you plan to carry more than 2 sets of skis it may be a good option to hire a larger car and fold down the seats.

If you wish to take advantage of our cross border car hire offer, you must make sure you are aware of the laws of any country you plan to visit. If you require anything extra, this must be added when booking or you must make alternative arrangements before you get to the country. If you break the law in another country, you could get in trouble with the local law enforcement and it may make your insurance void.

We always suggest that you call us if you would like to book a car, even more so if you have specific requirements. Our knowledgeable team are always happy to answer any and every one of your questions to make your car hire experience as pleasant as possible. Get in contact with us today!

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Top 5 Things To Do In Switzerland

April 2, 2019 News, Switzerland, Winter Comments Off on Top 5 Things To Do In Switzerland
Top 5 Things To Do In Switzerland

Switzerland is found in western and central Europe, it borders several countries including France, Italy & Germany. When most people think of Switzerland they think of skiing in the Swiss Alps. On top of skiing the country has so much more to offer, here is our Top 5 Things To Do In Switzerland.

Jungfraujoch

Have you ever wanted to climb a very high mountain but don’t have the effort to do it? Don’t worry, you can now get a train to the top. The Jungfraujoch stands at an impressive 4,158 m, that’s 13,642 ft, it was first climbed in 1811 and was a tricky task. Luckily for you in 1912 the Jungfrau railway opened to the public. This railway takes you to the highest train station in Europe and most of the journey is tunnels that have been carved through mountains. There are places the train stops where you can look at the breathtaking views as you travel up the mountain. Once you reach the top you will find plenty to do ranging from the snow fun park to walking around a palace made from ice! Travelling up this mountain is certainly a unique experience, second to none.

Lucerne

Lucerne is found in central Switzerland; this medieval village is packed with things to see. The city is best known for its Chapel bridge and 13th century water tower. The medieval bridge is 200 metres long and is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe! The bridge stretches over Lake Lucerne, a pearlescent blue lake that is home to many boat trips that you can partake in to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and learn about the history of the town. Another attraction in Lucerne is a very detailed lion that can be found carved into stone, so make sure you don’t miss it.

Rhine Falls

Rhine Falls is in northern Switzerland and is the largest waterfall in Europe! There is a short walk which takes you to a platform right next to the falls. If you want to get even closer to the falls you can take a boat trip which will last between 10 to 30 minutes. As well as the stunning waterfall there are castles nearby including the castles of Wörth and Laufen, which can both be reached by boat.

Toboggan Run

When most people think of a toboggan run, they imagaine someone on a toboggan (Sledge) going down a hill in the snow. In Switzerland there are some toboggan runs that are slightly different. These ones don’t require snow as they are toboggans on rails fit with a brake so you can travel at your own pace. One of the longest ones in Switzerland is at Churwalden, this run is 3060 metres long and descends nearly 500 metres. Lasting between 7 and 10 minutes and capable of reaching speeds of 25mph, this will certainly make your heart race. The cherry on top is that all of this is set in magnificent scenery which you can watch race by as you fly down the hill.

Schilthorn

Like Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn is another mountain in the bernese alps. The Schilthorn is nearly 10,000 feet tall and instead of a train, you will need to take a cable car to the top. What makes this mountain unique is on the summit of the mountain is a revolving restaurant! That means you can enjoy mouthwatering food as the restaurant spins around enabling you to have a 360-panorama view of the surrounding mountains. Don’t worry the restaurant takes just under an hour to complete a full rotation. If you are a James Bond fan you might recognise this place as it featured in the 1969 James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. Make sure you try the fan favourite “007 burger” which comes in a bun with a 007 logo stamped on the bun!

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Young Driver Hire In Switzerland With No Extra Cost

February 7, 2019 Switzerland, Winter, young driver Comments Off on Young Driver Hire In Switzerland With No Extra Cost
Car Hire With Zero Deposit

That’s right, we’ve managed to team up with one of our suppliers in Switzerland to arrange something extremely rare in the car rental industry – car hire for young drivers with no extra fees or surcharges! You don’t even have to have held a licence for a full year – the only requirement is that you are over 21 and have held your licence for 6 months.

With young driver fees often reaching up to 25-30 CHF per day, it’s not rare for them to double or even triple the cost of your car, making it extortionately expensive for anyone under the age of 25. We decided to rectify this issue with an affordable car hire option for younger drivers – no strings attached.

Where in Switzerland is this offer available?

We have numerous branches that we can arrange this from, at both airport and city locations:
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Am I able to hire without a credit card?

Yes, we can arrange a debit card rental from any of the airport locations as of writing, and are currently working on arranging this for the downtown locations too. We also offer a very low deposit from this location, just 200 CHF (approx. £153 / €175) held on the debit / credit card on arrival and released back to you at the end of the hire. That’s a far cry from the standard 1500 CHF deposits you get with most suppliers!

Can I take the car cross-border?

With this option you can take the car into almost all EU countries for no extra fee. These include:

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Just make sure you let us know when booking so we can make all necessary arrangements.

Is there an extra charge for winter ready vehicles?

If you’re hiring in the winter months (November to March) all cars will come fully equipped with the winter pack as mandatory by law in Switzerland, so they will already be fitted with the correct tyres for harsh weather conditions. If you’re going up to the Alps for a skiing holiday too you can also hire snow chains or a ski rack at the desk.

Please ensure you contact us directly for this option too as it’s not available to book on the website – you can contact us via email to sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk or call us on 0113 88 00 748.

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4×4’s & Winter Tyres: Which do I need?

January 3, 2019 Winter, winter car rental Comments Off on 4×4’s & Winter Tyres: Which do I need?
4x4 with winter tyres

Hiring a car in the winter period can be quite an arduous task, with conflicting information all over the internet on what is mandatory when and where. Hopefully the below will help clear this up and simplify it for you.

Winter Tyres:

Winter Tyres are tyres made from a different compound that prevents the rubber from hardening in low temperatures – ideal for driving in harsh conditions. There are quite a lot of countries that do indeed require winter tyres throughout the winter period (typically 30th November – 1st March). It is important to note that when collecting a car in certain countries during this time the car will come already fully equipped with winter tyres, here is a list of those countries:

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If you are collecting a car elsewhere and taking the car into one of the above countries then you need to make sure you hire a car with guaranteed winter tyres – for example winter tyres are not often guaranteed in France, even near the Alps, but we can arrange an option with them if you speak to us directly, allowing you to take the car into Switzerland. One that trips a lot of people up in particular is Geneva Airport, as you can end up hiring a car from the French side without winter tyres and then take it directly into Switzerland – which can cause huge problems! There are also countries that don’t require winter tyres but do require at least snow chains, such as most of Northern Italy. If in doubt, it’s worth just contacting us directly so we can advise you on what is and what isn’t necessary.

Another important distinction to make is that winter tyres and all-weather tyres are not the same thing. When they are fully sold out of winter tyre options some suppliers will encourage you to take all-weather tyres instead, however these would not be accepted if you are taking the car into a country that requires fitted winter tyres.

4×4 Rental Cars

4×4’s on the other hand are not mandatory anywhere really, except for very niche cases like specific roads in Iceland during the summer months. This means that when you are renting a car with winter tyres it’s not guaranteed to be a 4×4 also. That being said, it’s undeniable that a 4×4 is much preferred if you do have to drive in winter conditions, so while not necessary we can still arrange these at most locations on request. In countries like France where winter tyres are not mandatory it can also be an easier / cheaper option to rent a 4×4 instead of a car with winter tyres.

Hopefully this has provided some clarity on winter tyres for you, but again feel free to contact us directly if you have any further questions, or if you are looking for a hire with guaranteed winter tyres or 4WD. You can contact us directly via email to sales@thealternativeagency.co.uk or by phone on 0113 88 00 748.

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Top 10 Hazards While Driving In Winter

December 12, 2018 Travel Advice, Winter, winter car rental Comments Off on Top 10 Hazards While Driving In Winter
Winter Driving Hazards

Top 10 Winter Driving Hazards

Almost a quarter of all car accidents can be attributed in some measure to the weather, and winter driving can be particularly treacherous. Here are the top 10 winter driving hazards, and what you can do to stay safe.

  • 1. Black Ice

    • This is the deadliest of all winter driving hazards, and the hardest to prepare for. Black ice is formed when water freezes on the surface of a dark asphalt, making it almost impossible to see by motorists. It is often found on bridges, under overpasses and wherever the roadway is lined with trees. If temperatures are close to freezing, slow down, don’t tailgate, and take your foot off the accelerator (don’t slam on the brakes) if you hit a patch of ice.

  • 2. Poor Visibility

    • If you can’t see, you can’t drive. Clear all snow and ice off the windshield before your turn the key, and make sure your washer fluid is topped up.

  • 3. Blizzard Conditions

    • If you’re caught on the road in a blizzard, pull over and wait it out. Better to be late than never to arrive.

  • 4. Dead Batteries

    • It is harder for the current to pass through your battery in colder temperatures, so make sure yours is in good shape before you set off.

  • 5. Unpreparedness

    • Expect the worst and hope for the best. Carry an emergency kit which includes replacement fuses, flashlight, first aid equipment, blanket, gloves, hat and tools.

  • 6. Leaving the Vehicle

    • If you are stranded in a storm, stay in your car. You are far more likely to suffer from exposure by walking to find help than you are from waiting for help to find you.

  • 7. Speed

    • Just slow down. Always factor in additional time to reach your destination in winter, and adjust your speed for ice, snow and freeing rain. This is a winter driving hazard that is entirely within your control to manage.

  • 8. Poor Traction

    • If you live in a cold climate, invest in winter tyres. Nothing is more important when it comes to starting, stopping and staying on the road in wintery conditions. You can use snow chains or snow socks as an alternative.

  • 9. Cruise Control

    • Using cruise control will decrease your ability to make sudden adjustments to road conditions and increase your risk of aquaplaning on wet surfaces. Don’t use it in winter.

  • 10. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

    • If your tailpipe is clogged with snow and ice, fumes can leak into the car and causes severe illness or death. Check your pipe, especially if you are parked for a considerable period or waiting out a storm in your car.

Being aware, prepared and conscientious should help you avoid these most common winter driving hazards and get you safely home.

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Winters Around The Corner, Drive Carefully

December 5, 2018 Car Hire Tips, Winter, winter car rental Comments Off on Winters Around The Corner, Drive Carefully
Winters Around The Corner – Drive Carefully

The cold weather wave which is due to hit Britain this week reminds me winter is just around the corner. You’re probably used to it by now, the constant “drive safe” warnings you get over the winter period but it’s important to raise awareness and do our bit here at Indigo Car Hire to ensure that drivers are safe for this cold snap. It’s important to make sure that your cars can cope with the cold weather, it’s not too long until the roads become a more dangerous place.

Ice, snow, wind and rain are all factors that increase the amount of accidents, the figures in 2017 showed that 32 people were killed and 3912 injured when there was snow or ice on the road surface, that’s a significant figure. To avoid being one of these statistics make sure you keep your vehicle adequate to tackle the cold snap.

Make sure if you are the owner of a vehicle that the tyre treads are of adequate size, you should also consider winter tyres! Another few things to keep in mind include tyre pressure, vehicles brakes, steering, electrics and keeping your fluids topped up such as oil and water. If you are unsure on how to check all these its worth visiting a SEAT retailer as they will offer you a full winter tailored check for £29 where they will advise you on any parts that may require replacing. On top of which for doing so as a reward you will be given a one litre Castrol Edge oil top up kit which is valued at £18, free of cost.

Stay safe this winter in the sub-zero temperatures make sure your car gets checked, for £29 its worth that peace of mind. There are also a couple of precautions you can take, the usual drive slowly, consider winter tyres and possibly chains, make sure you are signed up to breakdown service and ensure that you have a blanket and some previsions in your car in case of a breakdown.

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Top 10 SKi Resorts In North America

October 7, 2014 Canada, USA, Winter, winter car rental Comments Off on 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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