03/09
2010

Driving in Costa Rica is not for everyone. So make sure you know what you’re getting into before getting behind the wheel of a car in Costa Rica. The following are the 7 most frequently asked questions about driving in Costa Rica. These questions come in from my popular podcast about Costa Rica from folks from the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

1. What type of cars are available for rent?

Renting a car in Costa Rica is more expensive than in the U.S. so most people rent the smaller more compact cars that are a little cheaper.

Prices vary and during the high season you will pay more. Around $20 or more per day. Renting during Christmas/New Years will add another $50 or more per week. I looked at five car rental company cars in Costa Rica and the average for renting a small car like a Toyota Yaris will cost around $205 per week. Please note this doesn’t include the required by law insurance which will add at least $10-20 per day. So you’re looking at $250-300 to rent a small car per week.

You will find all the major car rental Costa Rica agencies such as Hertz, Avis, Dollar, Budget, and others.

2. Is driving a good idea?

It depends. Driving in Costa Rica compared to other countries can be a very scary proposition for most. Costa Rica has one of the highest vehicle accident rates in the world. Traffic laws and speed limits are often ignored. Crazy and illegal turns across lanes of traffic are common. Turn signals are rarely used and dangerous passing is common. So you might driving on your lane when all of a sudden here comes a car in your lane going the wrong way because they’re passing on a blind spot. The roads are in poor condition, and large potholes which could cause serious damage to your car is common.

Although the road conditions in the beach areas are worse the actual driving isn’t as scary since there is less traffic and since the roads aren’t the best people tend to drive a little slower.

I like to have my own transportation so renting a car is something I like to do but it all depends on your comfort level. I’ve had friends and family who had never driven outside of the U.S. they found driving to be scary but a fun adventure. So just take it easy and slow and you will be fine. Don’t worry about the other drivers, just do your thing.

3. Do I need car rental insurance?

By law you will need the INS (Instituto Nacional de Seguros) liability insurance regardless of your own car insurance coverage or credit card coverage. The insurance required by law is known as TPL, SLI, SLC or API. The cost ranges from $10-20 USD per day depending on the vehicle. This insurance only covers damages to other people, cars, or property. You will need to buy supplemental coverage to cover damages to the rental car or yourself. However your own car insurance policy or credit card might cover that so call your insurance agent at home before leaving for Costa Rica and ask him or her if your insurance policy covers you for damages in Costa Rica. You might also want to call your credit card issuer and ask them the same question. If your own policy covers you in Costa Rica you’re set and you don’t need the supplemental coverage. If they do not cover you, then I suggest taking out a supplemental policy offered by Costa Rica car rental agencies.

Optional-CDW or LDW – collision damage waiver which covers the cost of the car’s deductible amount which varies depending on the type of car and agency. The cost will range between $10-20 USD per day.

Optional-Zero Liability – This will reduce your liability to zero against theft and vandalism, for example, the cost for this insurance is between $5-20 USD per day depending on the agency and car.

As you can see the supplemental insurance cost can add up fast so it’s important that you check with your insurance agent and your credit card company since you might not even need the optional/supplemental coverage.

If your insurance agent gives you the thumbs up do me a favor and get it in writing! You don’t want any surprises.

4. What are car rental requirements in Costa Rica?

Requirements may vary depending on the car agency you use so check with them. Most require a valid driver’s license (one from your home state or country is fine), a valid passport with your entry stamp, the Costa Rica mandated liability insurance, and you must be at least 21 years of age.

5. Is it safe to drive at night?

The problem driving at night is not crime, it’s just the unsafe driving and poor road conditions which are compounded even worse when you have poor visibility. The roads are not lit up well and it gets pitch dark after 6:00 PM making it unsafe to drive for an inexperienced driver.

6. What are road conditions like?

The road conditions are very poor compared to the super highways of the United States or the Autobahn in Germany. Drivers have to contend with unsafe driving habits of motorists, huge potholes, and even the highway is a two-lane road. The roads get worse during the rainy season since road washouts from the mudslides from the mountains are common.

7. What side of the road do they drive on in Costa Rica?

On the right hand side, like in the U.S. and Canada.

One final tip

Make a copy of the profile page of your passport and your entry stamp and carry that with you along with your car rental papers. You might get stopped by police and you will need to show this to them. Do no carry your passport with you just make copies. The Costa Rican government now allows you to carry copies instead of your actual passport.

03/04
2010

The internet is an incredible source for people to find the things they want or need. In today’s fast paced world, the internet is usually the first place people begin their search. That’s why the internet is one of the best sources a business can use to capture more customers and increase sales considerably.

Automotive dealers benefit substantially by presenting their merchandise and services on the internet. Having an attractive and comprehensive website is a great start, but it takes more than a static website to engage visitors in an effort to increase auto sales leads. Dealers are realizing that adding Dealer chat software to their website helps increase auto sales leads.

Studies show that most dealers convert less than 2% of their website traffic to auto sales leads. Dealer chat can increase the dealer’s current lead conversion by up to 60%. Dealer chat is proven to generate more auto sales leads from unique website visitors and improve customer satisfaction. This increase of auto sales leads is over and above the leads already being generated by quote and ?contact us’ forms.

Many dealers depend solely on Third-Party auto sales leads to drive showroom traffic. The majority of the time, it takes a salesman 2-3 attempts to contact the customer. After contacting the customer, it takes another few attempts to script the customer into an appointment. There are some leads that you will never reach.

In other very common instances, customers from third-party lead sources realize that they were on a website that had nothing to do with automotive sales and their ?lead’ was obtained. By targeting a dealership’s own website traffic and engaging in conversation using Dealer chat software, the chance of an ?invalid? or ?dead? lead is nearly eliminated as the consumer has already made their way to the dealerships site. They’re already interested in what the dealership is selling.

Regular advertising and marketing techniques work to drive traffic to a website. Auto dealers invest large amounts of funds to attract visitors and to increase traffic. Driving traffic to the website is just not enough. Dealer chat software, on the other hand, engages visitors and generates more auto sales leads from already existing site traffic. Dealer chat software helps maximize the dealers return on investment. The cost of implementing dealer chat software applications on a dealer’s website is well outweighed by the benefits of increased sales.

Once a customer finds themselves on a dealer website, they’ll spend some time browsing the available vehicles and different specifics. A large amount of internet visitors find their way on websites late at night ? often after normal dealership business hours. Unless dealers have 24/7 salesmen on staff, they will lose countless opportunities to answer customer questions and address issues that may arise during their online shopping experience.

Numerous auto dealers from all over the US and Canada are experiencing the benefits that Dealer chat software has to offer. Adding Dealer chat software is the best way dealers can improve their lead conversion, sell more vehicles, and maximize their return on investment.

For more resources please review http://www.carchat24.ca

02/23
2010

Though you can find frequent and repeated news that the scientists have developed exclusive alloys that possess the capabilities of protecting themselves from various wears and tars by rejuvenation there has in no way been even a single automobile that has been with that ability.

It really is really common that a few of the automobile parts get repaired frequently and there arises a have to substitute it. The cheap auto parts the low cost car stages could be availed in two methods, it can either be portion in some shops or perhaps a second hand auto be acquired and also the spare parts may be applied to your goal. The following in this on the net shop you can be able to locate wide variety of spare stages which will be of wonderful top quality as well as the expense of these car elements is going to be of very small range. Certainly there is not going to be any troubles for replacement alternative due to the superb nature of this automotive parts as well as the precise style with which they may be becoming designed.

There is going to be list of several automobile stages which can be out there within this on the net website that could just serve to be a virtual catalogue. You are able to pay a visit to this web site to purchase assortment of goods and the items are going to be shipped in rapid period of time.

02/07
2010

How O2 Sensors Fight Pollution?

As the name suggests, oxygen sensors are used to monitor the level of oxygen in the engine of the car. An oxygen sensor is fitted on the exhaust pipes of almost every car that was made after 1980. It is mounted between the catalytic converter and exhaust manifold. This sensor monitors the presence of oxygen in the emissions from the car and sends signals to the car’s management computer about it.

This sensor is one of the least known, yet most important parts of the car. Most O2 sensors use a zirconium ceramic bulb as the sensing element. The bulb is coated with platinum on both sides. The internal part of this bulb is vented through the body of the sensor and the external part bears the hot gases coming out of the exhaust pipe.

After sensing the amount of oxygen in the emissions, the sensor generates a voltage which is used by the car’s computer to detect the imbalance in the fuel/oil ratio in the engine. As we all know, gasoline engines run on a mixture of oxygen and fuel. In order to work efficiently, the ration between oxygen and fuel should be 14:7. Any imbalance in this ratio can not only damage the car, but also create a lot of air pollution.

Thus, we can say that having a good and perfectly working O2 sensor in our car can help us fight pollution and global warming. Let’s see the ways in which oxygen sensors help curb pollution:

Besides environment, air fuel ratio sensor also helps you save money. More mileage and efficient usage of fuel naturally results in more savings. You save hundreds of dollars on your monthly bills because of the oxygen sensors in your car. Don’t believe us? Then, ask any expert mechanic to give you an estimate on how much will your car’s mileage will be if you remove the oxygen sensor. The answer will shock.

It is a fact that cars cause pollution. But there are some parts which help decrease this pollution to certain extent. It is your moral and social duty to maintain those parts in perfect condition.

01/29
2010

The internet is the most exhaustive source for information we currently have access to. People and companies from all over the world are constantly adding new information to this wide network each day. Regardless, of the scope for which the internet is used by the large number of people going online each day, the resources come in a great variety, thus ensuring internet users have the best chances of finding exactly what they are looking for. This is the case for auto insurance companies. People can now find quality and cheap auto insurance online with just a few click of the mouse.

Because there are numerous cheap auto insurance companies offering a large and diverse offer of auto insurance online quotes, people should know very well what their needs are and what they will be expecting from their auto insurance online company. Believe it or not, even when it is common knowledge that getting auto insurance is mandatory by law, there are still a large number of car owners who decide not to get auto insurance policies for their vehicles. Finding cheap auto insurance online is becoming increasingly easier as more and more insurance companies decide to present many of their services including auto insurance online. The risks which may be encountered by vehicle owners that don?t get auto insurance for their vehicles make it a poor choice for people not getting insurance for their vehicles, and thus potentially ending up having to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars out of their pockets.

Because the effects that the global economic crisis has had on companies from the US, and all other countries in the world for that matter, cheap auto insurance policies are now widely available as many auto insurance online companies have been forced to reduce their expectations, after losing large numbers of customers that were not able to pay their monthly rates anymore. Usually, auto insurance online companies offer the best offers for cheap auto insurance, and with the great variety of such companies presenting their services on the internet, chances are that anyone will find cheap auto insurance, regardless of the size of their vehicles? engines or more importantly the price tags. Standard policies have started to have a much greater success with general public because of the financial difficulties they encounter due to the effects of the global economic crisis.

Full auto insurance online is still the best possible choice for people using their automobiles often, and even though rates are higher than for standard auto insurance online policies, it is still possible to find cheap auto insurance that would cover the vehicle for any type of accidents, legal liability and more. It is very important that you know exactly what of auto insurance online you need for your vehicle. Most auto insurance online companies present customers with free auto insurance quotes and with professional experts that are capable and trained to offer them all the assistance needed in order to make the best choice.

For more resources please review http://autoinsb.com

01/13
2010

Dayton Ohio Auto Insurance Quotes

Safety is one of the vital and important things in human life. It is complicated to drive the auto by following all the rules and regulation framed by traffic organization. No one provide assurance for accident free trip, because accident occurs unexpectedly. Even minor accidents can cause more loss to the owner. There are some systematic procedure is there in Ohio to get auto insurance. The procedure is normal and very clean to the users. There is no difficulty in getting the auto insurance in Ohio. Auto insurance not only includes physical damage to the auto, it also includes failure of some component, breakdown, etc. The insurance money is very much low compared to other states. If you need to get the auto insurance immediately then it is superior to contact the insurance brokers. Some of the car companies offer free brokerage for the valid consumers. This kind of offers attracts most of the citizens in Ohio. If you like to live a safety life then instantly get the insurance for your auto. Your family safety mostly depends on your safety and how you protect your assets. The unexpected condition comes to life for every human being, so we require to face that situation effectively.

If your going after Auto insurance you should go to Dayton Ohio Auto Insurance Quotes if you are from Dayton Ohio or for the best quotes in the Columbus Area look at Columbus Ohio Auto Insurance Quotes and get your self the best rates on your insurance policy.

01/05
2010

Contrary to popular belief, car rental rates are not set in stone. Often, discounts can be found by doing your research, and simply asking for them. Rental companies are eager to rent out cars they are not using. Cars sitting on a lot are not making them any money.

Here are some tips to get best discount car rental rates

Do your research. Costa Rica Car Rental research can be done online, on the phone, or by reading newspapers magazines or even your mail. It is important to compare the rates from various car rentals. Most car rental companies web sites, where they will show you rates for various locations. Also check the travel comparison web sites to compare companies against each other.

You can also get on the horn to the car rental companies, but this takes more time. Check the business and travel sections of your local newspaper and check the inserts in your credit card bills. Often, you will find discount coupons in those places.

Book early. If you are planning your trip several months in advance, check car rental prices available at that time. If you find what you consider fair, go ahead and lock it in. You can change it later, if you find a better rate. Many times, car rental companies will give deep discounts to early renters.

Book late. As the time for your trip approaches, Car Rental Costa Rica discounts may be found as car rental try to unload their excess inventory. Like I said, cars that are just sitting around aren’t doing anyone any good.

Pick your car in town. You pay a price for the convenience of picking up your car at the airport. Ask your rental car company, about how much it would cost to pick up your car in town. Normally, free shuttles are provided from the airport to the car rental location.

Get the smallest car available. Determine the number of passengers traveling with you and the amount of their luggage, and then get the smallest car that you will all comfortably fit in. Ideally, the car rental will be out of this car and will upgrade you for free to the next higher class. You can also ask about complementary upgrades.

Ask about discounts. Ask your car rental if there are discounts for a weekly versus a daily rental, or if there are discounts for memberships, or other organizations. If you work for a large company, ask about corporate rental rates.

Gas up your car before returning it. I remember when car rental would charge more than three dollars a gallon to gas up your car up on return. These days, that would almost be worth it. However, car rental are charging a whole lot more than that for a gallon of gas. You can save a lot of money by putting the gas in yourself on your way to return the car.

By following these tips, you can get a better rate on car rentals just about anywhere in the world. Have a great trip!

Car rentals are used by many people for different reasons. Usually, people need car rentals for a replacement vehicle for a short period of time. As such, people don’t actually rent cars on a regular basis and are thus ignorant of the ins and outs of car rentals.

There is basically no need of having any personal auto insurance when renting a car. However, car rental services usually ask if you are interested in buying insurance for the period of the car rental. But if you already have your own insurance policy, confirm with your agent to see if you are covered for car rentals. If you have coverage, there is no need of buying another policy from the car rental company.

It is of course necessary to have a valid driver’s license if you intend to rent a car. If you don’t have a valid driver’s license, you cannot rent a car. There are also some companies that reserve your car with a major credit card while you can pay with cash if preferred. Another point to remember when approaching Car Rental Costa Rica services is that they will not rent any car to a driver under the age of 25. So if you are underage, you will have to have an older friend or relative to sign the contract on your behalf.

Of course, don’t forget to confirm their rates to know if you are charged hourly, daily, weekly or on a monthly basis. It is always a good option to look around and compare several Costa Rica Car Rental providers, to find out the best deal and rent the right car. When picking the car, make sure that you have your personal paperwork and auto policy with you. Make sure you read the contract, and clear any doubts before signing the contract.

11/08
2009

Auto Insurance Quotes

Car Insurance Quotes are in hand in ranges and the people thinks the most is the cost at which it can be underwrite if in future a recipient of the same else will go for a plain and cheap course. Auto Insurance Quotes are in hand in varieties that one can lay check to go enhanced in hand willingly. Auto Insurance Deal explains about the whole method of taking the insurance and any upcoming track up in that. Auto Insurance is a must if any one is having the vehicle in hand and so the selection would be searched for a enhanced treaty and kind of deals was given according to customers vision. If they are to reach us through internet or phone the process will start and end up effortlessly and fast. Car Insurance also does the identical thing as similar to that of auto insurance. It is supplied lots of Cheapest Auto Insurance and Cheapest Car Insurance alternatives. If the Car Insurance Cost is authenticated with extra givers we give a very excellent charge according to one’s own desire. Cheaper Auto Insurance Rates are also in reach which when profited is given. The more easy organization at our side is an benefit and that is why most of the vehicle owner are to approach us.

11/07
2009

People Mover Car Hire

If you are setting up for a holiday or a tour to go with your relatives make sure to plan it in advance. Depending on your interest and funds you can choose the sort of place you wish to travel. Also, depending on the number of people you can decide to prefer the sort of vehicle you wish to travel. One of the most commonly chosen vehicles for rent is Tarago. If you are looking for Tarago Hire, make positive to search over the internet accordingly. Tarago Hire Gold Coast is unique vehicle which can be found in coastal areas. It can accommodate up to 8 people. On the other hand, people who are looking for vehicles for hire can do a custom based search over the internet by typing Minibus for hire or minibus hire gold coast. Lease cost differs from each and every tarago rental agencies. All these tarago vehicles are air conditioned. Depending on your frequency of travel you can prefer to buy a special pack from any of the rental groups, which offer good discount and other special benefits. Make certain to search for the best rental agency before booking or hiring a tarago vehicle for your tour. With the different models accessible you can decide the best for you.