Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Since the events of 9/11, car travel has become a very appealing way to travel. There's no metal detectors, searches, or waiting for hours in the same building. On the other hand some trips are more bearable if taken by airline and then a car can be rented once you have arrived at the airport. But where will you park? This is a strange city, you don't know where you're going, you don't want to be late or waste your time, and the last thing you need is to get a ticket and/or have your car towed away. So, what do you do?
The first thing that should do before you even start the engine or head to the airport is RESEARCH the area that you plan to visit. You can do that by logging on to the Internet or visiting a local library or bookstore. If you're headed to a major city in the US than logging on to the Internet is very helpful. Most large metropolitan areas have up-to-date websites devoted to the transportation needs of both residents and tourists. You can find out if you'll need a permit to park in certain areas and how to get this permit if needed; if there are free or metered parking lots or parking garages anywhere near your destination(s) and how far you may need to walk; and if there are other forms of transportation that may surpass the use of a personal car or at least do you can park and ride. Travel guides and brochures issued by the city's tourist information bureau are also helpful. If none of these sources give the exact parking information that you need, especially when visiting smaller cities, than look for a email address or phone number where you can contact someone who can provide you with the appropriate information.
If research is too much of a hassle or it's too late, don't give up hope. There are some common sense things that you can still do. If you are at the airport, find an information desk and ask there because they will either know what you're looking for and/or have brochures and maps of the area that you're going to visit. Also ask the car rental agent for maps and additional directions if you need them. If you're staying at a hotel, ask someone at the front desk because they are probably familiar with the area or may know who to contact for information.
Once on the road:
1) Look out for posted signs. If a sign says "No Parking," than don't park there.
2) Carry enough cash or change to pay for parking
3) Park in well-lit areas
4) Have your car valet parked when possible
5) Keep your parking ticket so you can find your car again
6) Never leave valuables in plain sight. Either take them with you or lock them in the trunk.
7) Provide yourself enough time to look for a park if you know that it's a tough area to find a park in.
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