Here you are in London! The head is spinning round of bus tours, running about monuments and guides. You may need a car that will make you your own master. Of cause, it is impossible to take your own motor vehicle with you. The only thing to do is to hire a car. This article will help you to avoid pitfalls concerted with car rental during European vacations and give some tips for driving in London. There are two ways to travel by car along London's streets: to hire a car and to take a taxi. In London, you can catch a taxi by waving a hand. However, be attentive black cars are more expensive so ask the fare every time you get in a taxi. If you want to hire a car, you will need your International Driver's Permit, your own national driving licence and a credit card. Remember that the minimum driving age in London is 17. A cheap economy car costs on average 54 dollars a day and 176 dollars per week. Big cars with an automatic transmission are usually provided for an air-conditioner. Many car rental companies in London have complete rang of motor vehicle and prices. There is no hidden cost and car Hire UK rates include: -Unlimited Mileage -Collision, loss damage waiver, third party (CDW) -All taxes and fees -Collision, loss damage insurance express refund (RFT) -Breakdown cover Hiring a duel-fuel car, you will be able to drive in London without paying surcharge, witch is being increased from July 2005. A duel-fuel car means that it runs on both gas and petrol. There is a lot of traffic in London so you should avoid driving at rush hour peak times 7.30 to 9.30 and 17.00 to 18.30. London Congestion Zone Charge reduces traffic. This zone starts at Hyde Park and King Cross and stretches to London Bridge and Kennington. If you are in the zone you will have to pay a fee at the rate of 5£. Driving your hired car, you ought to keep speed limits of 30 mph on any road unless sighs indicate otherwise. Where there is no street lighting the default limit is 60-70 mph. Alcohol limit in Britain is 0.05%. By the way driving in the UK is on the left side. Parking is very expensive especially in the center of London more than 30£ per night. Streets have parking meters indicating the time you can use them and the time you can use them for free. You should have change for parking meters otherwise while you are getting some change in a shop the meter is counting a stiff fine for you. Hiring car during European vacations in London has its advantages and disadvantages. Anyway only driving a car, you can give yourself to wishes and discover the London of your dream. Sources: http://www.anycarhire.com/ http://www.argusrentals.com/Europe-Car-Rental/England/car-rental-car-hire-London---North-Cheam.html http://www.london-hire-car-rental.com/eurotips.htm http://www.london-hire-car-rental.com/eurotips.htm