Archive for September, 2023

Vancouver is a bustling metropolitan city surrounded by natural beauty. While the lively downtown core offers no shortage of things to do, sometimes you need an escape from the concrete jungle. Luckily, a wealth of remarkable road trip destinations lie just beyond the city limits, offering adventure, stunning scenery and a breath of fresh air.

From mountain towns to lush provincial parks, you can uncover some of British Columbia’s treasures just a short drive from downtown Vancouver. So rent a car, pack your bags and get ready to hit the open roads to these fabulous destinations perfect for a quick getaway.

1. Squamish: The Outdoor Playground

Just a 45-minute drive north of Vancouver along the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway lies the adventure town of Squamish. Nestled against the soaring granite cliffs of the Coast Mountains and the meandering Squamish River, this paradise for outdoor enthusiasts has something for everyone.

Hikers will find over 50 kilometres of trails winding through ancient forests, past gushing waterfalls and leading to panoramic mountaintop views. Test your legs on the steep hike up the Stawamus Chief, a towering 700-meter granite monolith. The challenging ascent rewards you with breathtaking vistas over Howe Sound and Squamish below.

Opt for the Sea to Sky Gondola for a more leisurely, family-friendly hike. The 10-minute ride whisks you up to trails and suspension bridges overlooking the lush green valleys and shimmering waters.

Mountain bikers flock to Squamish for its epic single-track trails like Half Nelson, a white-knuckle descent through the forest. Or ride the lift up Whistler Mountain Bike Park’s downhill runs, earning your turns before bombing back down.

After working up an appetite, refuel with coffee and snacks at Rocky Mountain Chocolate or Fresh Local Wild. Then, stroll through sleepy downtown Squamish, peppered with cafes, shops and art galleries.

With its abundance of outdoor activities set against spectacular scenery, Squamish makes for an active and rejuvenating quick escape from the city. Take advantage of cheap car rentals in Vancouver to head north to the outdoor mecca of Squamish and experience incredible rock climbing, hiking trails and more.

2. Whistler: Canada’s Mountain Playground

Canada’s renowned mountain resort, Whistler, lies just 2 hours from Vancouver, making it an easy weekend getaway. While its ski hills attract travellers in winter, Whistler transforms into an outdoor playground in summer with activities galore.

Zoom down the mountains by renting a dual-suspension bike and taking the lift to Whistler Mountain Bike Park’s epic downhill runs. Swoop down trails like A-Line, pumping berms and catching air. Cross-country riders can pedal the mellow Valley Trail from the village to serene Green Lake.

When your legs need a break, stroll through Whistler Village and enjoy patio dining, boutique shops and art galleries. Learn about First Nations history at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. Or relax those sore muscles with a spa treatment at Scandinave Spa’s steam rooms and hot pools.

Just 10 minutes south of Whistler, ride the record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Suspended 436 meters above the valley, the 11-minute journey provides a bird’s eye view of the rivers and glaciated mountains beyond.

With limitless options for recreation and entertainment, Whistler delivers an energizing shot of mountain culture and adrenaline. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to rent a car in Vancouver and make the scenic drive up to Whistler for adventure in the mountains.

3. Britannia Mine Museum: Journey Into the Past

Travel back in time to the gold rush era at Britannia Mine Museum, just a 60-minute drive north of Vancouver. Don a hard hat and headlamp before descending into the dark tunnels of this once-bustling copper mine. Learn the history and technical aspects of mining while seeing the original equipment and mine workings firsthand.

Ride the underground train down ten stories and walk through mile-long tunnels blasted through solid rock. Marvel at the engineering feats required to mine in mountainous terrain and imagine the working conditions of early 20th-century miners.

Back above ground, take a nostalgic ride on the mine’s old copper trains. See the remaining buildings of the Britannia Beach town site and visit the exhibits in the museum. Panoramic views over the Coast Mountains and Howe Sound.

After uncovering the region’s mining past, stretch your legs on the surrounding trails and breathtaking beach boardwalk. Spot bald eagles fishing and blue herons wading as you reconnect with nature. The perfect mix of heritage, scenery and adventure: rent a car downtown Vancouver and take a fascinating trip back in time exploring the historic Britannia Mine Museum less than an hour away.

4. Golden Ears Provincial Park: Escape the Concrete Jungle

Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Golden Ears Provincial Park offers the perfect nature escape just 90 minutes east of Vancouver. Lush old-growth forests, alpine meadows and two stunning lakes provide endless options for outdoor recreation.

Pack a picnic and stroll around shimmering Alouette Lake, stopping to swim at a sandy beach. Hike through mossy woods past thundering waterfalls on the Mike Lake Trail or the more challenging West Canyon Trail. Climb the trailhead at Edge Peak for far-reaching mountain views.

Pitch a tent at one of several campgrounds, the perfect basecamp for adventures. Rent a canoe and paddle across Gold Creek and Alouette Lake, keeping your eyes peeled for turtles basking in the sun. As night falls, cozy up around the campfire under a dazzling canopy of stars.

With over 100km of hiking trails, calm lakes and serene forests, Golden Ears Provincial Park lets you truly reconnect with nature. Escape the concrete jungle by renting a car in Vancouver BC and retreating into the serene wilderness of Golden Ears Provincial Park!

5. Sunshine Coast: Seaside Adventure

Escape the city for the laid-back vibe of the Sunshine Coast, just a 40-minute ferry ride from Vancouver. This 180km stretch of coastline boasts quaint seaside towns, sandy beaches, lush rainforests and endless activities for adventurous spirits.

Try stand-up paddleboarding in Gibsons, known as the ‘Paddleboarding Capital of Canada.’ Rent a board and cruise the calm waters of Gibsons Harbour and Plateau Channel, waving to harbour seals and blue herons along the way.

In Roberts Creek, wander down meandering trails through Cliff Gilker Park’s ancient groves of cedar, fir and hemlock. Search for gnomes and fairy doors said to hide along the path. Drive further up the coast to see the massive old-growth trees in Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park.

Adrenaline junkies can tackle the Sunshine Coast Gravity Park’s downhill mountain bike trails, winding over wooden bridges, rocks and roots through coastal forest. Catch air on jumps as you zoom down runs like Top Gun and Sidewinder.

With road-tripping being one of the best ways to experience the Sunshine Coast, rent a car in Vancouver and take the adventure into your own hands.

Looking for a Cheap Car Rental in Vancouver?

Vancouver’s surrounding areas offer no shortage of remarkable road trip destinations to discover. From mountain towns like Squamish and Whistler to serene nature escapes like Golden Ears Provincial Park, you can uncover breathtaking scenery and adventurous activities just a short drive away.

Renting a car opens the doors to impromptu weekend getaways on your own timeline. With car rental companies in Vancouver like Expo, you can choose from an extensive line of vehicles to suit any adventure. Grabbing the keys to escape the city is easy!

Pack your bags, fill up the tank and hit the open roads to create unforgettable memories. Fresh air, stunning vistas and exciting new experiences await just beyond the city limits.

Get in touch with a rental agent at 604-726-6502 or 1-800-391-6502.

Renting a car opens up a world of transportation possibilities, allowing you to easily explore new destinations at your own pace. But not all rental cars are created equal. The vehicle you choose should match the location where you’ll be driving. So, what’s the best type of rental car for cruising in downtown Vancouver? This guide will walk you through the top options to consider.

Handle Vancouver’s Hills with Ease

Downtown Vancouver is known for its rolling hills dotted with leafy residential streets and vibrant commercial areas. According to Drive BC, some key routes in the downtown area involve elevation changes of 50-100 meters (164-328 feet). While the hills aren’t extreme, they can pose a challenge for some larger vehicles. When renting a car, it’s wise to choose an option that can smoothly handle inclines without struggling. Compact vehicles and smaller SUVs tend to offer sufficient power combined with agile handling. Larger trucks or full-size SUVs may prove frustrating, as their bulkier size and higher centre of gravity can make climbing hills more difficult.

Opt for Maneuverability on City Streets

The urban landscape of downtown Vancouver mainly consists of paved roads and sidewalks. According to the City of Vancouver, over 300 km of bike routes criss-cross the downtown core to complement city streets. With so much concrete and asphalt, a nimble car is critical for changing lanes, finding parking, and navigating busy intersections. Bulkier vehicles like full-size SUVs or trucks often feel cumbersome on tight city roads. Maneuverable options like hatchbacks, sedans, and smaller SUVs can quickly zip around congested areas; their compact shape allows for quick turns and smooth parallel parking.

Maximize Space While Keeping It Compact

Despite its condensed size of just 23 sq km, downtown Vancouver offers endless sights, activities, and culinary delights to explore. You’ll want a rental car that’s spacious enough to pack your must-have travel gear while still fitting into tight parking spots. Mid-size sedans and SUVs strike the right balance, providing ample cargo room without an oversized footprint. Popular options for Vancouver car rentals include the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and Honda Civic. These mainstream models offer generous trunk space and comfortable seating at an affordable price—if you’re looking for cheap car rentals, these models are your best bet.

Leverage the City’s Walkability

Downtown Vancouver earns high marks for walkability. With restaurants, shops, and attractions clustered together, you can easily navigate the area on foot after parking your rental car. Walk Score shows downtown Vancouver earns a 100/100 walkability rating. Vancouver’s mild coastal climate means exploring on foot stays pleasant year-round.

The Right Rental Makes Travel More Enjoyable

Choosing the optimal rental car is key to maximizing your downtown Vancouver experience. It’s all about finding the perfect vehicle match for a given destination. You wouldn’t take an oversized SUV on narrow city streets, just like you wouldn’t cram a group into a tiny compact car. Assess your travel priorities and look for a rental car that best fits your needs. The right set of wheels will make your Vancouver trip more comfortable, convenient, and fun.

The Ideal Vancouver Rental Car Depends on Your Needs

When it comes to renting a car, there’s no universal perfect choice. The ideal rental vehicle depends entirely on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Group Size: How many passengers do you need to fit comfortably? Compacts seat 4-5, mid-size sedans seat 5, minivans seat 7-8.
• Luggage Capacity: Will you have lots of heavy gear? Check trunk sizes—compacts have 12 cu ft on average, while larger sedans have 15+ cu ft. SUVs offer even more cargo space.
• Driving Terrain: Is it mostly city streets or also off-road areas? All-wheel-drive SUVs can handle varied terrain but aren’t as nimble on city roads.
• Gas Mileage: Are you looking to save on fuel costs? Compacts and hybrids offer 30+ mpg highway, while SUVs and trucks average 20-25 mpg.
• Features: What extras do you want, like Bluetooth, satellite radio, and leather seats? Upgrading the car class often adds more amenities.
• Budget: How much are you looking to spend? Sticking with an economy or compact rental can save money.

You can zero in on a rental car class that checks all the right boxes by evaluating your trip plans and priorities. Look for a vehicle that’s realistically suited to your transportation needs. And don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent for advice—they’re the experts on matching customers with the ideal cars.

Partner with a Reputable Rental Company

Where you book your rental car is just as important as what kind of vehicle you select. Work with a trusted rental agency that offers competitive pricing, flexible policies, and excellent service. When choosing a Vancouver car rental company like Expo Rent A Car, you’ll appreciate the following benefits:

• Convenient pickup and dropoff options that fit your itinerary.
• A diverse fleet with makes and models to suit your needs.
• Transparent information on rates, insurance, fees, and policies.
• Positive customer reviews praising their service.
• Helpful staff who can answer questions and offer advice.
• A streamlined rental process without lengthy waits.

Finding the right Vancouver rental car takes a bit of pre-trip research. But the effort pays off through an enjoyable journey made possible by having the perfect set of wheels. With a vehicle well-suited for downtown Vancouver, you can set out to explore this vibrant Pacific Northwest city comfortably.

Get in touch with our Rental Agents to learn more ► 604-726-6502 or 1-800-391-6502.

Getting a parking ticket is never a pleasant experience, but it can be stressful and confusing when it happens in a rental car in an unfamiliar city. According to a recent insurance survey, nearly one in three individuals have received a parking ticket while driving a rental car.

While simply paying the fine may seem like the easiest solution, there are steps you can take to potentially get the ticket dismissed without penalty. This guide will walk you through the best practices for dealing with a parking violation in a rental vehicle.

Act Quickly

The first thing to do upon receiving a parking ticket in a rental car is to act quickly. Different jurisdictions have different policies, but generally, you will only have a short window of time (often 7-14 days) to contest the ticket before the fine increases or it is considered delinquent.

Contact the Rental Company

After receiving a parking ticket, your next step should be to contact the rental car company. Ask to speak to a representative from the loss and damage department if they have one. Explain what happened and get their advice on the next steps.

At Expo Rent a Car, a popular rental agency in Vancouver, our loss and damage team is trained to deal specifically with issues like parking tickets. We can liaise with city parking enforcement on your behalf, drawing on their extensive knowledge of local regulations and ticketing practices. This inside expertise can be invaluable in getting your ticket waived.

Keep a Paper Trail

When you speak to the rental car company representative, take detailed notes. Jot down the name and employee ID number of the person you spoke with, the date and exact time of the call, and all advice or information they provide. Ask clarifying questions about policies and procedures for dealing with tickets. These notes can serve as evidence if you need to dispute the ticket later.

Having a clear record of your communications with the rental company safeguards you if disputes arise down the line. It also shows the court you made a good faith effort to resolve the issue when fighting a ticket.

Consider Legal Assistance

If the rental company cannot get your parking ticket dropped, the next step is to consider hiring legal assistance. There are a few options:

• Ask the rental car company to recommend a legal service specializing in parking violations. Major rental chains will often have preferred attorneys they partner with in major urban areas. These lawyers will be familiar with local parking regulations and have experience navigating ticket dismissal.

• Look into legal aid organizations. If you meet their qualification guidelines based on income, age, disability status, etc., you may be able to receive discounted or free legal services.

• Search online directories for traffic ticket lawyers and reach out to compare rates. Look for attorneys who offer free case evaluations and flat-fee pricing models.

• According to legal expert Sandra Blackwell, contesting a ticket takes insider knowledge of administrative law and traffic court proceedings. An experienced lawyer knows how to identify procedural errors and technicalities that can get your ticket thrown out.

Don’t Ignore It

It may be tempting to stick your head in the sand and ignore a parking ticket, especially if you’re no longer in the city where it was issued. But this opens you up to costly penalties, collections actions, and license suspensions down the road. Unpaid tickets sent to collections can end up costing 2-3 times more than the original fine amount.

Build Your Case

You need to craft a persuasive argument to successfully contest a parking ticket.Leverage any evidentiary issues, procedural defects, or mitigating factors to build your strongest case for dismissal. Some avenues to explore with your lawyer include:

• Procedural errors by parking enforcement: Was your ticket missing key details required by law? Was it placed improperly on the vehicle? Were required notifications not delivered? Any technical defect can invalidate it.
• Mitigating circumstances: If special conditions like weather, unclear signage, or misleading instructions from GPS led to the violation, make note of them. Extenuating circumstances can warrant ticket dismissal.
• Evidence issues: Photo or video evidence may reveal problems. Grainy or obscured images can be grounds for dismissal if they fail to definitively prove the supposed infraction.

Being proactive, meticulous, and strategic is vital for successfully contesting parking tickets in rental cars. While fines may seem inevitable, there are tried and true tactics for getting penalties waived. With the right approach and some guidance from seasoned experts, you can navigate this tricky territory with confidence.

Get in touch with our team! Call 604-726-6502 or 1-800-391-6502.