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Lots of people like to drive themselves around when visiting Europe, and if coming from the UK, it is quite easy these days to get there in a matter of hours. If you are considering taking your car abroad, then ensure you are prepared. Look online at the FCO website, it offers lots of travel advice by country, you’ll also need to check what insurance and breakdown cover is required.

Europe can be a great place to explore by car, especially if you are heading to the countryside. Rolling hills, quiet roads, beautiful scenery, and you get to stop whenever and wherever you want. The road infrastructure is good in European countries and traffic isn’t a problem at most times of the year, apart from the cities of course. If you have to drive in the city it can be quite stressful, particularly if you are not sure of the road system and don’t know the areas. Try to avoid certain holiday seasons such as Christmas if you are nervous and new to driving on the opposite side of the road.

The FCO provides information on the driving laws of the country you plan to visit, including local speed limits, what you have to do to comply with the vehicle requirements of the country you are visiting, and whether you need an International Driving Permit. If you are required to get one then you only need your current driving license to apply and you can get it within 24 hours in the UK by applying online.

Not every country requires you to have an international driver’s license; however it is an internationally recognised document and can facilitate contact with the authorities in the event of an accident or traffic violation. It doesn’t replace your driver’s license however, and when travelling you will need to show both. Continue reading ‘Tips on Driving in Europe’ »

With the new car registration season nearly upon us, many people’s thoughts turn to buying a new car. Immediately, however, the old question that many have wrestled with each year comes to the fore again – With so many cars for sale, should you purchase a new or used car. The benefits of buying a new car rather than a second hand model are pretty obvious. Obviously, the the plus side is that you can decide on the car you desire, complete with a spec that meets your requirements exactly. You can have the colour you want with the interior you want and all the bells and whistles that your budget will allow.

Buying a new car also means that it will come with a three year parts and labour for total peace-of-mind. The vast majority of manufacturers cover their new cars for a minimum of 3 years and also include roadside assistance for the same period with one of the major breakdown companies like the RAC or AA A few make it seem like their own breakdown package, but most are actually using one of the larger operators.The car dealers have changed immensely over recent years and much of it to the that favour the car buyer. Continue reading ‘Buying A New Car Has Its Advantages’ »