Scotland-Car Rental
 

We are traveling to Scotland in Aug. Any suggestions on car rental vs train or bus passes would be helpful. We are on a strict budget. Interested in the Highlands and out of the way places. Probably staying in Hostels.

Alida, About 4 years ago we flew into Manchester, rented a car and toured the Highlands, Isle of Skye and the north coast from Cape Wrath to Tongue. We saw things that one would never see from a train or bus and have some of the most picturesque slides we've ever taken, and we were there in the middle of January. It made us kind of homesick when we saw"Braveheart" and "Rob Roy".

Alida, I agree with Richard. I know that you said that you are traveling on a budget, but renting a car may overall be cheaper. The trick is to reserve a car early. Right now Hertz is running a special and you may be able to get a good deal. I would definitely make the reservation soon though, if you want a break. Also, if possible, get a standard transmission, as it's about 100 pounds cheaper than automatic. The countryside is so beautiful near Loch Ness and Isle of Skye, that you'll find yourself wanting to stop and take pictures every five minutes. I'm going back in May and can't wait. If you have any more questions, feel free to e-mail me.

I would tend to take a plane for the first part of the journey to Europe. <BR> <BR>Scotland is a country best seen by foot and/or car. To get the full flavour of my wonderful country you need to hirew a car. Sure a train is easy but Scotland doesn't have a particularly thorough rail service. <BR> <BR>Most of Braveheart was actually filmed in Ireland, sadly because the British Government (nee English) don't want Scotland promoted. They are running scared of our impending independance.

Thanks Richard and Jeff. I am convinced now it would be best to rent a car. Any advice on the agency or go with whomever my travel agent suggests? <BR> <BR>Tony, <BR>We are flying into Glasgow. Thanks for the advice.

Alida, We always find the best price with either Autoeurope or Kemwel. Both have web sites. I'm not sure how they work, but the actual rental car will come from Hertz or National, Autoeurope and Kemwel send you a voucher for the rental. Also, as Jeff said, a stick shift is the most economical. I'm sure you know the Scots drive on the left, steering wheel on the right.

Alida, I'm going back to Edinburgh in May and I found a pretty good deal with Europecar ( in the US it's Dollar) Their # is 1-800-800-6000. I have also had good luck in the past with Hertz. There is a Hertz location at Waverly Station which is very convenient. <BR>

Thanks Jeff and Richard. <BR> <BR>I do drive a stick and am prepared to drive on left. Thanks for the info. Any suggestions on extra insurance?

<BR>Alida - Most definitely rent a car. You won't be able to get into the beautiful countryside without it. I rented a manual transmission car from Kemwell last August. At the time they were the least expensive. Picked up and dropped off the car at a National Rental site (pickup in Edinburgh and drop off at Glasgow airport). Your credit card should cover the CDW insurance but read the fine print...my Visa card required notification within 10 days of accident or return to US. Waiving the CDW insurance will save quite a bit of money for you. Just check with your credit card company first. <BR> <BR>Started in Edinburgh (for the festival), drove north to Pitlochry and Colloden, then over to Ullapool, Plockton, Skye, Glen Coe, and down to Glasgow (or just outside). <BR> <BR>Scotland was my first trip to Europe many years ago and it was just as wonderful as I remembered when I finally returned last Fall. <BR> <BR>Have a great time. Regards, Adrienne <BR>