Keeping up with all the different car types can be difficult at times. After all, rental companies offer roughly 20 different types of cars to choose from! Find out what to expect when booking an estate rental car, also known as a station wagon.
Click one of the links below to quickly jump between different sections of this blog post.
An estate car is essentially a sedan with an extended roof line and a hatchback trunk. Access to the rear space is possible through the rear doors, as opposed to the trunk lid. In addition, most station wagons feature rear seats that fold down. That way, you can decide whether you need more cargo space or room for additional passengers.
Believe it or not, it’s surprisingly easy to distinguish an estate car from other types of cars, all thanks to their unique design. An estate car features A, B, C and D pillars in its design.
Every single estate rental car will have the following:
space for four or five passengers
a spacious hatchback trunk
similar to a BMW 3 Series Touring
Estate Rental Cars-Sub Categories
Many rental companies break down their estate fleets further. Check out the following sub-categories of estate rental cars you can often come across.
Compact
As the name suggests, compact estate cars are slightly smaller in size. This can be a Toyota Auris STW, for example.
Full-Size
Full-size estate cars are going to be the biggest ones, providing more space for cargo and passengers. This can include cars such as the station wagon variant of an Audi A4.
Luxury
Luxury comes at a higher price, and luxury estate rental cars are no different. Expect to pay more for a station wagon Mercedes-Benz or an upscale Audi A6, as opposed to a more budget-friendly alternative.
Crossovers and MPVs
Some rental companies will also consider large crossover SUVs and MPVs in the estate category. If that’s the case, you can expect to receive a Toyota RAV4 or a Ford Galaxy.
Is An Estate Car The Same As A Station Wagon
Yes. An estate car is exactly the same as a station wagon. Most rental companies in the United States will refer to this type of vehicle as a (station) wagon. In the United Kingdom, they’re called a station wagon.
Examples Of Estate Cars
As mentioned above, estate cars can easily be identified by their unique body style. When booking an estate rental car, you can expect to pick up one of the following vehicles:
BMW 3 Series Touring
BMW 5 Series Touring
Volkswagen Passat Estate
Audi A6
Audi A4 Estate
Toyota RAV4
Skoda Octavia Estate
Ford Focus Estate
Citroen C4 Picasso
Toyota Auris STW
Seat Leon ST
Opel Insignia Touring
Kia Ceed Estate
Ford Galaxy
Volvo V70 EState
Vauxhall Zafira
When It’s Best To Book An Estate Car
A quick glance at one of these cars is enough to understand that they’re all about space. That’s why they’re ideal whenever you need to fit up to 5 occupants along with their luggage.
Travel comfortably with the entire family for hours on end in a luxury estate, or book a compact estate to take your friends around town.
You can also fold down the rear seats. Then, you’ll end up with a two-seater and plenty of cargo space. Perfect for transporting a large piece of furniture, for example.
Learn More About Your Rental Car Type
You may not be aware that you only book a vehicle type, and not a particular make and model. That’s why you’ll see the words “or similar” next to every vehicle offered by rental companies. What does that mean exactly?
As rental companies’ fleets are constantly changing, it’s difficult for suppliers to predict which exact vehicles will be available at each location.
That’s why rental companies use a four-character code- called ACRISS- to classify their entire fleets.
You can check out our guide to ACRISS codes to learn more about rental car types. That way, you’ll always be prepared beforehand.
Don’t forget to book your next rental car through Rentalmoose. Our platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.
We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.
Cancun has become one of the hottest travel destinations within the last years. It’s the ideal spot for bachelors, party animals, as well as families with kids.
These are 14 of our favorite things to do in Cancun with kids. All of the activities listed above are kid-friendly and ideal for days of family fun!
Visiting Mayan Ruins should be on the itinerary of every traveler visiting Mexico, no matter how old they are. These ancient sites date back thousands of years and are a crucial part of the local culture.
There are two major Mayan archeological sites in Cancun: El Rey and El Meco. Both of them are worth visiting!
El Rey Ruins
While the sites in Tulum and Chichen-Itza are among the most famous in the entire country, the long drive may not be ideal for families with kids. Don’t worry, as the El Rey Mayan ruins are located within Cancun itself!
El Rey ruins are located within the southern part of the Hotel Zone, near the famous Playa Delfines. Admission costs just 50 pesos per person.
El Meco Ruins
El Meco Archeological site is just a few minutes out of Cancun. Like the El Rey Ruins, admission to El Meco costs just 50 pesos per person.
Note: El Meco Archeological Site is temporarily closed.
Beach Day At Playa Delfines
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s busy Hotel Zone, Playa Delfines is the perfect place to go. This sandy beach is truly spectacular, and it lays just a few miles south of all the resorts. It’s much quieter and more laid-back as opposed to the beaches at the Hotel Zone itself.
This gorgeous public beach stretches for miles, making it the perfect spot to unwind for a few hours. Go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or sunbathe for hours on end. Oh, and the soft sand is ideal for building sandcastles, too!
Keep an eye on the horizon. If you’re lucky, you may just spot a dolphin or two.
Go On A Pirate Dinner Cruise
Did you know that your entire family can feel like pirates during a very special themed cruise? Captain Hook offers dinner cruises on an impressive pirate ship. Set sail right from the Hotel Zone, dine on a pirate ship, and enjoy the entertainment.
This unique experience is quite pricey, though. Expect to pay around $US100 per adult. Children tickets are available at discounted rates.
Pirate dinner cruises are available 7 days a week from different operators throughout Cancun.
Hang Out At A Theme Park- Ventura Park
Ventura Park is an adventure-packed theme park ideal for the entire family. From go-karts to waterslides and rollercoasters, this place really has it all.
You can make the most of the park’s waterslides, ziplines, or race go-karts right by the ocean. There’s an indoor state-of-the-art virtual reality arcade, too.
There are lots of attractions here, so it’s best to plan a trip to Ventura Park for the entire day. Tickets start at around US$30 and go up all the way to $70, depending on the attractions you pick.
Check Out The Interactive Aquarium
Not only is a visit to the Interactive Aquarium one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids, but it also doubles as one of the best indoor activities in town. As a result, it’s the perfect attraction to drop by on a rainy day!
The Interactive Aquarium Cancun is conveniently located within the La Isla Shopping Village, right in the middle of the Hotel Zone. Inside, you can admire exotic marine life and learn all about the fascinating underwater world.
The fact that the aquarium is super interactive makes it the perfect spot for families with kids.
Expect to spend at least half an hour to tour the Aquarium. Oh, be sure to drop by the gift shop afterward.
The Cancun Interactive Aquarium is open daily between 9AM and 8PM.
Cenotes are one of the most popular attractions among tourists who visit Mexico. A cenote is a natural sinkhole filled with water. They’re scattered all over the Yucatan Peninsula, and a couple breathtaking ones are within a short drive from Cancun.
Cenote Azul- The Best Cenote Near Cancun
This attraction is a little over an hour out of Cancun. However, it is most certainly well worth the drive!
Cenote Azul is perhaps the most impressive cenote in this part of the Yucatan Peninsula. Guests can swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of two different swimming areas. Thrill-seekers can plunge into the cenote from the cliff diving site, too.
Expect to pay roughly 120 pesos per person for admission.
Extra tip: Consider driving down to Tulum to explore even more spectacular cenotes! And don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Tulum while you’re there.
Hop On A Ferry To Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a real oasis located a quick 15-minute ferry ride away from Cancun itself. This island is home to some truly spectacular sandy beaches and trendy eateries waiting to be explored. There are a couple of spots ideal for snorkeling, too.
Once you’re on Isla Mujeres, you can rent a golf cart to thoroughly explore all of what the island has got to offer.
You can catch a ferry from the Puerto Juarez pier, located just outside of the heart of Cancun.
Ferries depart every 30 minutes between 5AM and 9PM.
Relax At Parque de Las Palapas
Parque de Las Palapas serves as the booming heart of local life here in Cancun. It’s the perfect spot to grasp some of the local life, as opposed to the tourist-oriented Hotel Zone.
Parque de Las Palapas is more than just your average downtown park, though. There’s plenty of stalls to try out local specialties and purchase hand-made products. You can play a game of soccer, or simply unwind and enjoy the sunset.
There’s always something to do at Parque de Las Palapas, especially on sunny weekend afternoons. You can enjoy live performances and really dive into the local life here. Be sure to drop by!
Day Trip To Xcaret
Xcaret is an adventure park located roughly halfway between Cancun and Tulum, near Playa del Carmen. The drive there will take around an hour each way. At first, you may think that this is yet another Adventure Park. This could not be further from the truth, though.
Unlike most amusement parks in this part of Mexico, Xcaret is an archeological park that celebrates Mexican and Mayan cultures. Guests can choose from tens of different activities, including swimming with dolphins and other marine life, go on a speedboat tour, snorkel, or encounter stingrays.
In the meantime, the adults can unwind at the spa, or go for a romantic wine pairing session at the local wine cellar. The activities are curated for guests of all ages!
Adventure-Packed Day at Selvatica
This is yet another great adventure park located near Cancun. Selvatica is famous for their thrilling Polaris ATV tours through the Mexican wilderness. That’s far from the only activity here, though.
A wide array of attractions make Selvatica Adventure Park one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids by a long shot. Visitors can zipline head-first through the jungle, for example. Believe it or not, it’s not quite as scary as it sounds!
Let’s not forget bungee jumping, ziplining into a cenote, and the famous off-roading tours either. You can check out all of the activities at Selvatica’s official website.
Note that children need to be at least 8 years old to participate in one of the tours at Selvatica. Families with younger kids may want to skip this spot.
Pricing starts at $US99 all the way to $199, depending on the tour you select.
Go On A Road Trip
Road trips are one of the best ways to bond as a family. In addition, a road trip around Mexico is the perfect way to see just how diverse this beautiful country is.
Check out our curated travel guide and plan your perfect road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula. Expect to see ancient Mayan ruins, impressive cliffs, and cute towns along the way.
We already wrote about Ventura Park, as we consider it to be one of the best spots to visit in Cancun with kids overall. Their high-tech virtual-reality arcade, however, is another great attraction in its own right.
This part of Ventura Park is fully enclosed, making it the perfect destination for a rainy day in Cancun.
Visit Museo Maya de Cancun
The Mayan Museum of Cancun is the go-to spot to find out more about the fascinating Mayan culture. Unlike the nearby Mayan ruins of El Rey and El Meco, this attraction is fully indoors. That’s why it’s best to save it for a rainy day.
Guests of all ages can discover Mayan culture within Museo Maya de Cancun. There are loads of precious artefacts displayed within the museum, which is already an architectural gem by itself.
Admission will set you back 80 pesos per person.
Shopping Spree At Plaza Las Americas
A shopping mall may not be your first pick when looking for things to do in Cancun. A day at Plaza Las Americas is, however, quite a solid way to spend a rainy day.
Aside from around 200 retail stores, Plaza Las Americas also boasts a food court and a large cinema. Catching a movie followed by a not-so-healthy lunch is indeed a great plan B for a rainy day, just in case.
Plaza Las Americas is open 7 days a week from 10AM to 10PM (8PM on Saturdays).
Bonus- Rent A Car in Cancun
Unsure whether to book your rental car in Mexico? Be sure to check out Rentalmoose. We’re a global car rental broker that serves over 15 000 locations worldwide.
We only offer rental cars from trusted and verified suppliers.
Driving in Mexico can seem a little overwhelming at first. Check out our comprehensive guide, ideal for those who are planning to drive in Mexico!
There is so much to see in Mexico. Wonderful attractions, such as ancient Mayan ruins, are scattered all over the country. If you’re planning to make the most of your trip, the best way is to travel within the country by car. That way, you can freely move between different cities and regions in Mexico.
A Comprehensive Tourist Guide To Driving In Mexico
Yes! International tourists are permitted to drive in Mexico. Naturally, you have to meet the local laws to be eligible to drive here. In practice, this means the following.
You need to have a valid driving license. You only need an International Driving Permit if your domestic license is not in English. If your license is only in Japanese, for example, you’ll need to obtain an IDP.
Can You Drive In Mexico With A US License
Yes! As mentioned above, you can drive in Mexico with a foreign driving license as long as it’s in English. If you own a US-issued driving license, you can freely use it when driving in Mexico.
Requirements To Rent A Car in Mexico
If you’re planning to travel between different cities in Mexico, it’s best to rent a car for your trip. You can use Rentalmoose to browse through rental cars across over 15 000 locations worldwide. We only offer cars from trusted & verified suppliers.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Renting a car in Mexico? Don’t forget about proper insurance! Your credit card insurance may not provide coverage in Mexico.
The minimum age to rent a car in Mexico is 21. Drivers between 21 and 25 years will likely be charged with a young driver fee. This daily fee will be added on top of your rental quote.
In addition, most rental companies will require the renter to have at least 2 years of driving experience. This is verified by the issue date on your license.
The vast majority of rental companies in Mexico will require a credit card issued under the renter’s name. Debit cards are often not accepted.
Is It Safe To Drive in Mexico
To be completely honest, that depends. Safety remains a concern for many international tourists visiting Mexico. Tourist areas such as Cancun are perfectly safe. The same goes for the vast majority of the country. Drug violence remains a serious problem in the country, and it’s best to stay up to date on local news.
There are some areas that are not recommended to visit, such as Toluca Highway. It’s often referred to by locals as the carretera de la muerte, which translates to the Highway of Death. The name is pretty self-explanatory. You may want to drop it from your itinerary.
That said, you should always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, just like any other country you travel to.
There is absolutely no need to freak out. You can find some helpful tips for driving in Mexico below.
Tips For Tourists Driving in Mexico
Check out the information below to prepare you to drive in Mexico for the first time.
Stay vigilant
Avoid driving at night
Take cuotas (toll roads)
Look out for topes
Stay Vigilant
Naturally, you always want to be vigilant and fully aware of your surroundings when traveling abroad. The same goes for driving in Mexico. There is absolutely no need to panic and freak out that something bad will happen.
Simply stay aware of what’s going on around you at all times. Just like you would anywhere else.
Avoid Driving At Night
A couple of decades ago, this piece of advice would refer to banditos- local gangsters who would rob drivers, especially in remote areas during the night. Over the last years, the number of banditos has dramatically decreased.
The main reason you should drive in Mexico during the day is actually the quality of roads. Major toll roads (we’ll get to those in a second) are well-paved. The same cannot be said about side roads, especially in remote parts of the country.
If you do happen to break down in the middle of nowhere, you may have to wait until daytime for assistance to arrive. That’s why it’s best to simply avoid driving at night altogether.
Take Cuotas, or Toll Roads
At first, you may think that this is related to banditos or drug-related violence, like the advice to drive during the day. However, it’s recommended to stick to cuotas, or toll roads, due to the quality of roads. Cuotas tend to be well-paved, unlike minor streets. The difference is even more apparent in poorer regions of Mexico.
Look Out For Topes
Topes are speed bumps. They can be found all over Mexico, especially on busy highways and in big cities. You may expect speed bumps to be painted in bright yellow to ensure they’re visible. That’s not exactly the case.
In reality, many topes remain completely unmarked. As a result, they’re very difficult to see. Some topes are built by locals, hence seeing them is even more challenging. If you hit one going too fast, you may require roadside assistance. Look out for topes!
Know The Traffic Laws When Driving in Mexico
This is an absolute no-brainer. Be familiar with the traffic laws in Mexico, both the official ones as well as the unwritten ones. Let’s go over both of them.
Mexico Official Traffic Laws
The legal driving age in Mexico is 18
Every occupant in a car needs to have seatbelts on
Drink-driving is a crime. The legal limit is 0.08%
Using a phone while driving is forbidden, unless with a hands-free kit
Left-hand highway exits- Highways in Mexico have areas where drivers can safely stop and make a u-turn past their desired exit
Call 911 in case of emergency
Call 074 for roadside assistance- Los Angeles Verdes (more on that below)
Speed Limits in Mexico
Urban Areas- 40km/h
Open Roads Outside Urban Areas- 80km/h
Highways- 100-110km/h
First and foremost, be familiar with the official laws as well as the speed limits.
Unwritten Traffic Rules in Mexico
An oncoming vehicle flashing their headlights at you is a warning to slow down. The first vehicle to flash their lights has the right of way. If someone is flashing their headlights, you are expected to yield
Left turn signals can mean one of three things- the car in front is turning left, letting you know that there is space to overtake, or taking the right-hand side exit to then make a left
It is common to drive on the shoulder to make more space for overtaking vehicles. Expect to see overtaking vehicles on your lane, and use the shoulder to accommodate them
As mentioned above, many speedbumps are hard to see. Drive cautiously
Los Angeles Verdes- Roadside Assistance in Mexico
Knowing this is crucial for any tourist driving in Mexico. Los Angeles Verdes, or the Green Angels, are a fleet of green-colored trucks that provide roadside assistance. The personnel speak both Spanish and English, and will be able to get you back on the road in no time.
You can reach Los Angeles Verdes at 074, a 24-hour toll-free number. It’s best to write this phone number down, just in case.
Note that Los Angeles Verdes only operate in the daytime and on major highways. This is yet another reason why you should avoid driving in Mexico at night and stick to toll roads.
Road Trip in Mexico- Travel Ideas
Mexico is full of fascinating places to visit, and going on a road trip is one of the best ways to see the country!
Road Trip Around The Yucatan Peninsula
This is by far our favorite road trip itinerary in all of Mexico. You set off in dreamy Cancun, and then drive south via Tulum and through to San Cristobal de las Casas. Then, you’ll make your way back to Cancun via the west coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
This is a truly unforgettable road trip. Expect lots of driving in Mexico, as there’s plenty to see!
Day Trips From Mexico City
The region around Mexico City is truly fascinating. You can rent a car from the capital and go on multiple day trips, or combine them all into one grand road trip. Check out our curated travel guide.
Tulum and its Surrounding Areas
If a road trip around the entire Yucatan Peninsula is too much driving, check out our favorite things to do in and around Tulum. There’s more to Tulum than fancy resorts, and you won’t want to miss out on any of that.
Cabo San Lucas and Baja California
Cabo is a fantastic destination in its own right. Check out our travel guide on the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. We’ve included a few small road trip ideas around Baja California, too!
Tulum is the ideal year-round destination for tourists from across the world. We’ve hand-picked 13 of our favorite attractions and wonderful things to do in Tulum.
Without further ado, here are our favorite attractions in and around Tulum!
Swim in A Cenote
You simply can’t skip this when in Tulum. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with water. They can be found all over the Riviera Maya. Swimming in a cenote is a bucket-list attraction for anyone visiting Mexico.
A cenote is either open, partially open, cave cenote, or underground. Be sure to visit at least one of each kind for the full experience.
Note that all guests are required to shower before entering a cenote. That’s the only way to assure that the water inside remains crystal-clear and free from pollution.
There are so many different cenotes to choose from. We have picked our three favorites that you may want to head to first.
Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote is easily one of the most popular ones in the entire country.
The water is as clear and turquoise as it gets. Going for a swim in this dreamy water, surrounded by the impressive caves, is truly unforgettable. Guests can even dive through the cave, if they dare.
It’s highly recommended to come here early in the morning to beat the crowds. Gran Cenote can get extremely crowded, especially during peak season.
Gran Cenote is 3 minutes away from Tulum.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos may just be the most spectacular one near Tulum. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that if you only have the time to visit one cenote- it should be Cenote Dos Ojos.
You may be surprised to hear that Cenote Dos Ojos is actually made up of two different cenotes. You can head through the main entrance and explore them both while swimming.
Cenote Dos Ojos is a short half-hour drive from downtown Tulum.
Cenote Car Wash
This cenotemay not seem as spectacular as the two above. However, it’s a great place to visit and experience just how different cenotes can be. Once you’re here, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled to the middle of the jungle.
The open cenote is surrounded by lush mangroves and colorful trees. You can spot plenty of fish, turtles, and even crocodiles!
Thrill-seekers can hop in the water from a wooden platform 5 meters above the surface. This cenote is not as popular as some of the other ones in the area, hence it’s also not as crowded.
Cenote Car Wash is a quick 10-minute drive from Tulum itself.
Try Out Watersports
Any adventure junkie is going to fall in love with Tulum. There are plenty of action-packed attractions to do here, including loads of watersports to try out.
“Tulum Is Better On The Water” according to this local kitesurf rental, and it’s pretty hard to disagree. Mexican Caribbean Kitesurf offers kitesurfing lessons for beginners, experts, and anyone in between.
You can also try out foil surfing, as well as traditional surfing. Kiteboards and stand-up paddleboards can be rented, too. Oh, and you can explore cenotes on a SUP tour. What more could you possibly ask for?
Unwind At A Lavish Beach Club
A day at a beach club isn’t exactly the cheapest thing to do in Tulum. In fact, some of the pricier beach clubs here will ask you to pay around $50 to enter. Luckily, the entrance fee can often be used as credit to spend on food and drinks inside.
Coco Tulum
Coco Tulum is the place to see and be seen at. It’s favored by wealthier tourists who aren’t repelled by the cost. The minimum spend is roughly $25.
Visit Coco Tulum after dusk falls to see the beach club transform into one of the best party spots in town. Order a cocktail, listen to electronic music, and dance till you drop.
Coco Tulum is located in the Hotel Zone, a 15-minute drive south from the heart of Tulum. A car park is available directly by the beach club.
Explore Mayan Ruins In Coba
Mayan ruins are arguably the most significant landmarks in Mexico. Getting a grasp of the ancient civilization is an absolute must, and there are plenty of spots to do it around Tulum. Coba Archeological Zone is one of them.
The lack of tourists is another great part of visiting Coba. Since they’re not as accessible as the ruins in Tulum or Chichen Itza, many travelers decide to skip them. That’s a huge mistake!
Visitors have the chance to climb the ancient pyramid in Coba. Once you’re at the top, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. It’s like a real-life Indiana Jones movie.
The drive from Tulum will take you around 45 minutes one-way. Parking is available on site, expect to pay 50MXN ($2.5).
Dive Into The Tulum Nightlife
Tulum is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, so you definitely don’t want to miss out on it. The best part? You can party 7 days a week, as there’s always something going on!
There are plenty of spots where you can experience Tulum’s nightlife. You can head to Pueblo for a more affordable experience, as opposed to the pricy Hotel Zone. Either way, you’re bound to have fun.
Some of the must-try nightlife spots around Tulum include:
Batey Bar (Pueblo)
Xibalbar (Pueblo)
Kiki (Pueblo)
Pasito Tun Tun (Pueblo)
Gitano (Hotel Zone)
Casa Jaguar (Hotel Zone)
I Scream Bar (Hotel Zone)
Coco Tulum (Hotel Zone)
Many of the local beach clubs, such as the previously mentioned Coco Tulum, also host parties after dusk falls.
Check Out The Caves At Aktun-Chen Park
by Gary J Wood
Aktun-Chen Park is perhaps one of the most thrilling parks in this part of the country. It’s located just 20 minutes away from Tulum, making it the ideal spot to spend the afternoon.
The cave system has got to be the most impressive highlight of the Aktun-Chen Park. Guests can go for a dip in the underground cenote, explore the cave system on a guided tour, or go for an adventure-filled zipline ride above the wilderness.
Note that this is far from the cheapest thing to do in Tulum. In fact, you can expect to pay upwards of $100 to experience all the attractions in Aktun-Chen.
Drive north along the coast, you’ll reach Aktun-Chen 20 minutes after leaving Tulum.
Look For Jaguars At Punta Laguna Nature Reserve
Visiting this vibrant reserve is an absolute must for anyone who wants to experience Mexico’s exotic wilderness. Book a guided tour of Punta Laguna to learn all there is to know about the local flora and fauna.
The reserve is home to lots of fascinating animals. Bumping into spider and howler monkeys is nearly guaranteed. If you’re lucky, you might just spot a jaguar too. This isn’t a major tourist attraction in the region, or at least not yet. Crowds should not be an issue at Punta Laguna.
Adrenaline junkies will find themselves right at home in Punta Laguna. You can ride the zipline across the lake just like Indiana Jones, or hop in a kayak.
The drive up to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve will take you around an hour one-way.
Visit Tulum Archeological Site
The waterfront Tulum Archeological Site is perhaps the best-known attraction here. Don’t let the crowds discourage you from visiting this spot, as it’s absolutely mindblowing!
What makes Tulum Archeological Site stand out from any other Mayan site in the region is its gorgeous setting- right in front of the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
This Mayan city is made up of over 60 restored temples. The site sits atop a cliff right by the sea. It’s no wonder that this is the most-photographed spot in the region.
After exploring the Archeological Site, you can head down to the small sandy beach. There’s not too much space, so you may want to get here during off-peak hours.
Family Fun At Xel-Ha
If you’re a fan of waterparks, you surely need to drop by Xel-Ha.
Xel-Ha isn’t your average theme park, however. Instead, it’s a fun mix of waterpark attractions mixed with the natural wonderland. In fact, it’s often considered to be one of the most spectacular aquatic parks on the planet. It’s certainly worth visiting, at least for the scenery itself.
Guests can climb the 70-feet (30m) tall lighthouse to admire panoramic views of the area, and then hop on the waterslide to go back down. Xel-Ha Park is packed with fun activities, including ziplines, snorkeling, and natural caves waiting to be explored. Naturally, you’ll also find cenotes and wild jungle trails here.
The park is a 20-minute drive away from Tulum.
Day Trip to Chichen-Itza
This is it, the most famous Mayan pyramid in the country. Chichen-Itza is a bucket-list attraction for travelers across the globe. It may not be in Tulum, though it’s located just a 2-hour drive away. As a result, it makes for a perfect day trip from Tulum!
Tourists are able to climb some of the ancient towers throughout Mexico. However, this is not the case at Chichen-Itza. Climbing the tower is forbidden. You may only admire it from ground level.
As this is the most popular archeological site in Mexico, you can expect it to be rather crowded. Arrive early in the morning to beat at least some of the crowds.
The site is open 7 days a week between 8AM and 4PM. Admission costs around 400 pesos, or $20, per person.
The journey from Tulum to Chichen-Itza and back will take around 4 hours both ways.
Photograph Ven a La Luz At The Hotel Zone
You will probably recognize this unbelievable sculpture from social media. It’s one of the most Instagrammed spots in Tulum, and perhaps all of the Riviera Maya. The 10-meter tall structure has been drawing in crowds ever since its debut in 2018.
As of late 2021, the sculpture can be found at AHAU Tulum. A photo with the wooden art piece will set you back 60 pesos. Expect to wait in a queue, especially on weekends. The site is open between 9AM and 8PM.
AHAU Tulum is a waterfront hotel located within The Hotel Zone.
Swim At One Of The Best Beaches in Tulum
It is no secret that Tulum is home to some of the best beaches in the world. It’s one of the main reasons why so many tourists flock to this part of Mexico every year.
The gorgeous coastline stretches for miles, only bringing one question to mind- what beaches in Tulum are the absolute best?
These are our top picks in Tulum and the surrounding area:
Playa Ruinas
Playa Paraiso
Akumal Beach
Secret Beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere
With that said, you’re bound to have a good time at virtually any beach here. All of them are drop-dead gorgeous!
Playa Ruinas
This is the famous beach that sits right below the Tulum Archeological Site. It’s quite small and often packed with tourists. On the other hand, the scenery is unforgettable. It’s easy to see why so many tourists choose to come specifically to this sandy beach. Come early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Playa Ruinas is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Playa Paraiso
This one is an absolute must. Playa Paraiso, rightfully named Paradise Beach, lays just a few minutes south of the Tulum Archeological Site and stretches along the Hotel Zone.
Unlike Playa Ruinas, Playa Paraiso is quite wide and long, hence it can accommodate a lot more people. Hordes of tourists aren’t really an issue, perhaps only during the absolute peak tourist season.
This public beach can be accessed 24/7, free of charge. You can rent chairs, umbrellas and other equipment right on the beach itself.
Akumal Beach
Akumal Beach isn’t exactly in Tulum. In fact, it’s roughly halfway between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, so it’s definitely worth a stop on a drive from Tulum to Cancun.
Amenities and facilities are plentiful at Akumal Beach. You can unwind at one of the waterfront bars and restaurants, or rent a sunbed and sunbathe for hours on end. You can snorkel here, too. If you’re lucky, you may spot turtles and colorful fish.
Expect this beach to get quite crowded, especially on weekends.
The drive from Tulum to Akumal Beach will take you 30 minutes one-way.
Secret Beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere
The pristine sandy beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere is ideal for those looking for a more private experience. This secluded beach is in the heart of the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve. It does not have any facilities.
You’ll need to cycle or hike to reach the secret beach, it cannot be accessed by car. Just finding it is an adventure in itself! Once you’re here, you’ll be rewarded with a serene sandy beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll be the only one there.
Go On A Road Trip
Want to make the absolute most of your time in Mexico? Going on a road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula will allow you to see many different attractions in the region.
We’ve prepared a curated road trip guide around the Yucatan Peninsula. The trip begins in Cancun, then continues south all the way to San Cristobal de Las Casas, before looping back up to Cancun via the west coast.
A private car is unarguably the best way of getting around Tulum, especially if you plan to head out of town. Before renting a car in Tulum, be sure to read our guide on Car Rental Insurance in Mexico. It’s better to come prepared!
Don’t forget to book your rental car in Mexico via Rentalmoose. Our platform features over 15 000 locations worldwide, as well as rental cars only from trusted and verified suppliers. Browse through rental cars at your favorite destinations.
Knowing the different types of car categories offered by rental companies is a must. Here is what you can expect when booking a standard rental car.
a Ford Mondeo is classified as a standard car.
We have divided this quick guide into the following sections to make it as easy to follow as possible. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each part of the blog post.
A standard car is larger than an intermediateand smaller than a full-size. Frankly speaking, the name is rather self-explanatory. Standard rental cars are just that- standard. A prime example would be a Volkswagen Jetta, which can is a popular pick among rental companies worldwide.
All standard rental cars will share the following features:
space for up to 5 occupants (including the driver)
four doors
more cargo space than an intermediate car
good fuel economy
roughly the same size as a Volkswagen Jetta
Note that some rental companies offer slightly larger cars, such as MPVs and some crossovers, that are classified as standard. Continue reading to find out more about different examples of standard rental cars.
Standard Car Models
Keep in mind that you are not guaranteed a particular make and model when booking a rental car. You’re actually booking a rental car type instead. That’s why you’ll see the words Or Similarnext to your rental car.
With that in mind, these are some cars you may receive when booking a standard car:
Volkswagen Jetta
Kia Sportage
Vauxhall Insignia
Buick Verano
Citroen C4 Grand Picasso
Ford Mondeo
Volkswagen Passat
Ford C-Max
Renault Laguna
Vauxhall Corsa
When You Should Rent a Standard Car
Standard cars are ideal when an intermediate rental car just doesn’t cut it in terms of space, for example on longer trips. After all, a standard car has enough room in the trunk for at least one more piece of luggage compared with an intermediate car. Rear-seat passengers can expect more legroom, too.
On the flip side, standard cars are harder to park in tight spots. Fuel economy may be worse than your average intermediate or compact car, as well.
If you’re planning to drive a few hundred kilometers with two to three passengers and their luggage, a standard car may just be perfect. If you crave more space, consider renting a full-size instead.
Know More About Your Rental Car Type
As mentioned above, you always book a rental car type as opposed to a specific make and model. Although you are not guaranteed a particular vehicle, you can work out many of its features and specifications.
Rental companies around the world use the four-character ACRISS code to classify their fleets. The code includes information on the car type, category, drivetrain type, transmission, and even whether or not it has air conditioning.
Don’t forget to book your next rental car through Rentalmoose. Our platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.
We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.
The car rental world is made up of nearly 20 different categories. Keeping up with them all can be difficult, especially if you haven’t rented a car in a while. Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out what exactly a compact car is according to rental companies.
Rental companies are constantly shifting their fleets, hence guaranteeing renters a particular make and model would be virtually impossible. That’s why rental companies actually rent car types, as opposed to particular models.
To keep things simple and clear, rental companies throughout the globe use the same unified car classification system. The ACRISS code consists of four characters that describe the type of car offered by the company.
The first letter in the ACRISS code describes one of the 18 different car categories. Compact is one of them.
We’ve divided this blog post into the following sections to keep it as short as possible:
Compact cars are medium-sized. They are smaller than intermediate cars and bigger than mini cars.
Remember that a rental company cannot guarantee you a particular make and model. For this very reason, the exact dimensions and specifications of compact cars can slightly vary. Some rental companies also classify small SUVs, such as the Nissan Juke, as compacts.
You can expect every single compact rental car to have the following:
space for up to 5 occupants
4 doors
excellent fuel economy
similar in size to a Nissan Versa
In addition, some rental companies may also offer economy cars as well as compacts. Note that both of these types are very similar to each other, though a compact will typically be a little larger.
Examples of Compact Rental Cars
Compact rental cars are, despite the name, pretty spacious. As mentioned above, a Nissan Versa is considered a compact car. Some more examples of compact rental cars include:
Nissan Versa
Volkswagen Golf
Vauxhall Astra
Ford Fusion
Volkswagen Beetle
Nissan Juke
Ford Focus
Hyundai i30
Kia Soul
Peugeot 306
Opel Meriva
When Is It Best To Rent a Compact Car
As compact rental cars are smaller than intermediate and full-size sedans, they are ideal for driving around the city with friends or family. Compact cars can easily fit into tight parking spaces, and their small engines are renowned for exceptional fuel efficiency.
For example, a 2021 Volkswagen Golf can drive up to 39 miles on a single gallon of fuel. That equates to only around 6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Rent a compact car and you’ll never have to worry about gas prices again!
If you’re planning a longer trip with more than two passengers and their luggage, you may be comfortable in an intermediate car, though. A couple going on a romantic weekend to Lake Tahoe from LA will be perfectly happy with a fuel-efficient compact.
Know More About Your Rental Car Type
We already mentioned that rental companies use a unified four-character ACRISS code to describe their rental cars. Did you know that you can figure out the car type, category, drivetrain, fuel type, transmission, and even if it has A/C, all by looking at its ACRISS code?
Remember that you are never guaranteed a particular make and model when booking a rental car. Instead, you’re actually booking a car type defined by its ACRISS code. That’s exactly why you’ll see the words or similarnext to the make and model when browsing through rental cars.
Don’t forget to book your next rental car through Rentalmoose. Our platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.
We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.
California is one of the best tourist destinations in all of the United States. A private car is unarguably the best way of getting around, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple cities.
Even if you’re planning to stick to one city, like Los Angeles, you’ll be better off with a rental car. This particular city extends for nearly 45 miles (70km) from north to south!
Driving in California for the first time can seem a little scary, at least at first. We’ve prepared a guide to help you navigate through California’s traffic laws and regulations. That way, you can make the most out of your California holiday.
To keep this guide as convenient as possible, it has been broken down into the following sections. You can click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section.
Planning is key to a fun and stress-free holiday. Ensure you’re all set before leaving for California using the information below.
Rental Cars in California
You can find your rental car via Rentalmoose. Rentalmoose features only verified suppliers across over 15 000 locations worldwide. Browse through rental cars from Hertz, Europcar, National, Enterprise, Alamo, and more. We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.
Who Can Drive a Car in California?
Teens as young as 14 can be permitted to drive a car in California in special cases. Drivers between 16 and 18 can drive with a provisional license, and anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a regular driving license. However, you need to be older in order to rent a car in the same state.
In fact, most California rental companies will permit drivers who are at least 21 years old to rent a car, as long as they’ve had their driving license for at least a year. Note that young drivers may not have access to the entire fleet though. Luxury cars or powerful drop-tops are usually reserved for drivers with more experience.
Big Sur, Pacific Coast Highway
Renters aged between 21 and 25 should prepare to pay an additional young driver fee. This daily fee will be added on top of your rental bill for anyone under 25, as well as seniors (usually over 65 years old).
Did you know that renters can face up to 20 additional fees when renting a car? You can learn how to avoid them in thisblog post.
International Driving Permits- Are They Required in California?
An International Driving Permit is not required by tourists driving in California. You can simply use your foreign driving license. Note that some rental companies may ask for an IDP, even when it is not legally required by the state or country you’re in. It’s always best to double-check directly with the supplier before setting off.
You can check out this blog post for more information on renting a car in California. You’ll find out all about the standard insurance, how to avoid young driver fees, and more practical information.
California Traffic Laws and Regulations
Seatbelts and Other Mandatory Safety Measures
Seatbelts are an absolute must for all occupants in a car.
In addition, motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet at all times. This applies to their passengers, too.
Speed Limits
Watch your speed at all times, as the limits are strictly enforced throughout the state.
These are the speed limits in California unless there are signs that state otherwise:
15-25mph (25-40kmh)- school zones, railroad crossings with poor visibility- under 400ft in both directions
25mph (40kmh)- urban areas, such as business and residential districts
55mph (90kmh)- two-lane undivided highways
65-70mph (105-110kmh)- multi-lane highways, such as freeways or interstates
55mph (90kmh)- maximum speed for vehicles towing trailers
As mentioned above, speed limits are strictly enforced in the state of California, much like in the majority of the US. The police can even use aircraft to enforce speed limits. If you’re caught speeding, you can expect to pay up to $900 for serious offenses. Criminal charges are possible for reckless drivers, too.
Overtaking and Lane Changes
A general rule of thumb is to stick on the right lane on highways and use the ones on the left for overtaking.
Overtaking on the right side is allowed, as long as there are at least two clearly-marked lanes going in the same direction.
Lane Splitting
Lane-splitting is legally permitted for motorcycles in California. Be sure to look out for bikes when driving!
Carpool (HOV) Lanes
Carpool lanes are a clever way to reduce the number of vehicles on busy roads. You can spot them on some of the busiest freeways in the states, especially in big cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco. They are marked by a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on the surface.
You can use carpool lanes, as long as you have at least two (or three in some places) occupants in the vehicle, including the driver. Note that vehicles towing trailers are forbidden to use carpool lanes, no matter how many people are in the vehicle.
Turning Right at A Red Light
The ability to turn right at a red light continues to amaze many European tourists in many US states.
In California, it is legal to turn right at a red light, unless there are signs that prohibit it. Note that you must first come to a complete stop at the red light before turning right.
Pedestrians Have The Right of Way
Pedestrians have the right of way at any intersection. Crosswalks do not need to have lines painted on the road. What’s more, pedestrians are permitted to use unmarked intersections, unless there are signs that state otherwise.
Use of Mobile Phones, Texting and Driving
It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving in California. This is a distraction that can have deadly consequences for you, as well as other road users. Keep your hands off your phone when driving.
Fully hands-free devices are the only exception.
Drinking and Driving
Much like the rest of the United States, California takes drinking and driving very seriously. Although the legal limit is 0.8%, you can still be charged for drunk driving if you’re impaired, even if the alcohol level is below the legal limit.
Drivers caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be arrested on the spot. Never drink and drive.
Smoking in The Car
If you’re driving with children, it is illegal to smoke tobacco products in the vehicle. Not only is it against the law, but also incredibly bad for your health.
Opened Containers
Driving under the influence is a very serious crime in California. To help reduce the number of drunk drivers out on the roads, the officials have made it illegal to have any open alcohol containers within the passenger compartment of a vehicle- including the glovebox. If you have any open alcohol bottle, it has to be transported in the trunk.
DON’T FORGET TO USE RENTALMOOSE TO COMPARE THE BEST DEALS FROM OUR TRUSTED SUPPLIERS.
Though most vehicles sold today are automatics, manual rental cars are not going anywhere! Check out this guide to learn all you need to know about stick-shift automobiles in the world of car rental.
Picking the right transmission car to suit your needs is absolutely crucial. This is particularly important if you plan to rent a car for a long period of time or take it for a cross-country road trip.
For this very reason, Rentalmoose has created a comprehensive guide on manual rental cars. We’ll cover everything from reasons to book a manual car, finding a stick-shift vehicle, all the way to driving one.
To keep things simple, this handy guide is divided into 5 different sections. You can click one of the links below to quickly jump to each part of the blog post.
Torn between an automatic and a good ol’ stick shift? Check out some of the reasons why some drivers prefer manual transmissions.
Full Control Over Gears And Shifting
This one is quite obvious. The reason why many drivers love manual transmissions is that they are in full control of the gearbox. As the driver, you decide when to shift. This may not matter to everyone, though some people simply find it more enjoyable.
Some cars offer a semi-automatic transmission where the driver can still shift up and down without a clutch, though that feature is mostly reserved for sports cars.
Long Trips and Driving In The City
While a manual transmission is perfectly fine when driving on a long highway, it could get annoying very quick in the city. Imagine being stuck in rush-hour traffic, constantly having to keep your left foot on and off the clutch.
If you’re planning to stick to city driving, you may want to re-think renting a manual car. For long journeys, however, manual rental cars can be the perfect pick.
More Driving Pleasure
According to some car fans, driving a car with a manual transmission is simply more fun than an automatic. While this is definitely a matter of personal taste, it’s pretty clear that a manual transmission is simply more engaging for the driver.
It’s Cheaper Than An Automatic
Renting a manual car will always be cheaper than an automatic.
If a rental company happens to have the exact same vehicle, the only difference being the transmission type, you can be sure that the manual will have a lower day rate.
Renters who want to drive stick can save a few bucks along the way, too.
Note that this does rule does not apply in the United States, as there aren’t any manual rental cars offered there. Keep reading for more details.
Where Can You Find A Manual Rental Car?
Manual rental cars are very common throughout European countries. In most cases, the cheapest vehicles offered by a rental company come equipped with a stick shift.
The majority of trusted suppliers, such as Hertz, Europcar, Budget, or Enterprise, all offer manual rental cars in Europe as well as other countries. You can use Rentalmoose to filter manual rental cars at your selected location.
Cars with a stick shift have become hard to come by in the US. That brings up another question.
How To Check If Your Rental Car Will Be A Manual- ACRISS Code
When browsing through rental cars, you should always keep in mind that you’re not actually booking a specific model. Instead, you’re booking a car category that meets the criteria you’ve picked. That’s why you’ll see the words “or similar” next to the model name.
With that in mind, there is an easy way to check what transmission type your rental car will have. The third character in the vehicle’s ACRISS code describes its transmission.
The letters A, B, D indicate that the vehicle is an auto. Take a look at the example below.
CCMN- a compact 2/4 door manual without air conditioning.
CCAN- a compact 2/4 door automatic without air conditioning.
Can You Rent A Manual Car In The United States?
Finding a manual rental car in the US is virtually impossible. Though there may be a few local rental companies that still offer stick shifts, a manual rental car is a rare sight.
Alamo and Budget still have some manual vehicles at select locations, though they’re very difficult to find.
The number of manual automobiles in the US is dropping rapidly. According to Carmax, less than 2.5% of cars sold in the US come equipped with a stick shift. That’s quite a drop from 25% a little over two decades ago.
As a result, just 1 in 5 American drivers know how to drive manual. While that may not necessarily be a bad thing, it dramatically reduces the amount of stick shift rental cars in the country. Most drivers simply prefer automatics, either due to comfort, a lack of skill, or both.
The lack of manual transmissions in the US is good news for drivers who prefer automatics, though. Renters don’t have to pay a premium rate to receive an automatic car, as opposed to Europe where the cheapest rental cars are typically diesel-powered manuals.
How Do You Drive Stick Shift?
Driving a manual can be a little tricky after a long break. However, you should be able to get the hang of it after a few minutes. You can also check out our quick guide to driving a stick shift, just in case.
If you’ve never driven stick before, it may be a better idea to go with an automatic rental car.
Rent A Manual Car With Rentalmoose
Rentalmoose has made renting manual rental cars easier than ever before. Simply go to our website, find a location, select pick-up and drop-off dates, and hit enter.
Once the results pop up, you are able to set additional filters. This can be anything from the renter’s age, the deposit amount, and the transmission type.
Renting a car is a pretty straightforward process, as long as you have a credit card. While it is preferred, most rental companies will allow you to use a debit card when renting a car. This quick guide will answer one of the most confusing questions in the world of rental cars.
To keep things simple, we’ve divided this blog post into the 3 following parts. Click the links to quickly jump to each section.
The short answer is yes. However, it depends on a few factors:
the rental location
age of the renter
proof of a return travel itinerary
the name on the card
Continue reading to find out more.
Although it can seem a little bit complicated at first, it is possible to rent a car without a credit card. Rentalmoose has made renting a car as straightforward as possible. Virtually all of our suppliers allow renters to rent cars using a debit card. This can, however, change depending on the location.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Some of our suppliers offer a quick way to check location-specific policies. Check out Budget’s Find A Location as an example.
Note that the policies can vary depending on the rental station. Always double-check with the supplier before finalizing the transaction. Otherwise, you may run into issues during the pick-up process.
Another thing to keep in mind is the age of the renter. While most rental companies allow a driver under 25 to rent a vehicle (a young driver fee may be applied), the lack of a credit card is an issue. You need to be at least 25 years old to rent a car with a debit card.
If you’re picking up your rental car at an airport, you will need to provide proof of a return travel itinerary. This is required by virtually all rental companies at airport locations, especially if you plan to use a debit card.
Last but not least, ensure that the debit card is registered to you- the renter. No matter whether you choose to book with a debit or a credit card, it has got to be under the name of the renter.
Don’t forget that while some rental companies won’t accept a credit card during the pick-up process, payment for the rental car at drop-off may be covered via a debit card. It’s best to get in touch directly with the supplier if you’re unsure.
Which Rental Car Companies Allow You To Use A Debit Card?
Rentalmoose only offers rental cars from trusted and verified rental companies. As a result, most of our suppliers offer a car rental with a debit card.
You can always double-check directly with the rental company if you’re unsure whether your rental car can be booked with just a debit card.
Avis (Ace, Budget)
Most Avis locations accept debit cards, though the renter has got to be at least 25 years old.
Cards accepted by this supplier include Avis Charge Cards, American Express, AT&T Capital, China Union Pay, Diner’s Club, Discover, GE Capital, JCB, Mastercard, Sears, and Visa.
Aside from local policies, Avis also requires credit cards when renting premium vehicles, including the ones in the Avis Select Series.
Enterprise (Alamo, National Car Rental)
Enterprise typically accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Discover debit cards at most of their airport locations in the US and Canada.
Note that the renter needs to present a return flight ticket to be able to rent a car using a debit card at airport locations. Otherwise, only a credit card will be accepted.
Europcar
Europcar accepts debit cards issued by major operators at select locations. It’s best to refer to their terms and conditions before finalizing the booking.
For the most part, it should not be an issue to use a debit card when booking a rental car with Hertz. As always, local limitations may apply depending on the rental location. Hertz requires a credit card when booking a premium vehicle, too.
Charge and debit cards accepted by this supplier include American Express, MasterCard, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Visa, China Union Pay, Hertz Charge Card.
Similar to Enterprise, Hertz requires to present a return flight ticket at airport locations to be able to rent a car with a debit card.
Rental car deposits and holds on account funds
No matter what supplier you choose to book your rental car with, you can expect a hold on account funds.
By doing this, the rental company can make sure that the renter is actually able to pay for the rental car. In most cases, the holds on your account funds will be similar to the final rental car bill.
This fee will be returned to you within a few business days after the drop-off. Ensure you have enough funds on your debit card to cover this hold, as well as to pay for the rental car itself.
Most rental companies will take a security deposit. You can learn more about that in this informative blog post.
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to book your next rental car! Click the banner below to start browsing rental cars.
Mexico is filled with fun attractions and plenty of things to do for all kinds of travelers. It’s no surprise that this country attracts nearly 100 million tourists every single year. Traveling by car is unarguably the best way to see the best of what this country has to offer. Check out our insightful guide to car rental insurance in Mexico before setting off!
To keep things simple, we have divided this blog post into the following sections. Click the links below to jump to each topic.
For the most part, renting a car in Mexico is exactly the same as in the United States. You will need the following items to rent a car in Mexico:
Major credit card under your name
Driver’s license issued at least a year before the start of the rental period
Valid passport
Note that there are common extra car rental fees that can be added to your rental bill. These include a premium location surcharge, mainly for airport pick-ups and drop-offs, a young driver fee, or a late drop-off fee.
Most rental companies will require a security deposit before handing over the keys. The deposit is usually taken from the credit card used when booking your rental car. While some local companies may allow you to cover the deposit via debit card, it is not common practice.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Booking using local currency may save you from overpaying for bad conversion rates.
Your US Insurance Is (Probably) Not Valid In Mexico
This is indeed quite a bummer. Many credit card plans come with rental car insurance (more info here). However, most providers don’t extend this coverage south of the United States.
Credit Card coverage will not be accepted in Mexico. Purchasing additional coverage in Mexico is the best way to go.
Note that this will also apply to travelers who drive their own vehicles into Mexico. Most US auto insurance plans are not valid in Mexico.
Mandatory Car Rental Insurance in Mexico
Just like the United States, Mexico has two types of car rental insurance- collision damage and liability. However, this is where the similarities between rental cars in the US and Mexico stop. Here’s why.
Personal Liability Insurance, also referred to as Third-Party Insurance, is mandatory when renting a car in Mexico. You cannot rent a car without this coverage.
Although this is the only obligatory type of insurance, it’s not always enough. In fact, it’s highly recommended to opt for additional coverage. You can also learn more about rental car insurance in other countries in this guide.
Personal Liability Insurance- Why It May Not Be Enough
As the name suggests, Personal Liability Insurance (a.k.a. Third Party Insurance) covers personal injury claims and material damage done only to the other driver.
That’s right, this basic coverage does not protect the renter or the rental car in any way. If you do happen to have a collision in your rental car without any extra coverage, you will need to pay for the damages out of your own pocket. The bill can quickly round up to tens of thousands of dollars.
Be sure to double-check the limit on your basic coverage before driving off. In most cases, basic liability insurance will only cover you up to 50 000 pesos, or $3800. Anything above that will need to be paid by the renter.
While we sincerely hope that you’ll never need rental car insurance, it’s always best to come prepared.
Additional Rental Car Insurance in Mexico Explained
Be sure to check out the section below to avoid overpaying for what may seem like a great deal, at least at first. Avoid any misunderstandings and ensure that you have the exact coverage you want.
If you choose to buy additional insurance outside of your rental company, double-check whether it’s accepted. Some local companies won’t accept insurance bought outside of their company.
These are the different types of car rental insurance in Mexico. We’ll go over the details below.
Basic Car Rental Liability Insurance in Mexico
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SAI)
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW)
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Basic Car Rental Liability Insurance in Mexico
You may be surprised to hear that basic liability insurance is included in your Mexico rental car. It’s a legal requirement for every rental company to include the basic liability in the day rate.
Every rental car in Mexico comes with this basic liability insurance. That said, you should consider adding extra coverage. Check out the options below.
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SAI)
As you already know, basic liability insurance is obligatory in Mexico. That has to be good news, right?
Well, not exactly. Many rental companies in Mexico will insist on purchasing SAI, or Supplemental Liability Insurance. This extended protection may come in handy, as it typically increases the coverage from the 50 000 pesos included in your basic insurance. However, this extended coverage is not mandatory.
Don’t forget that it’s always cheaper to purchase additional coverage in advance. If you decide to add extra insurance at the rental desk, expect to pay a higher fee.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW)
A Collision Damage Waiver, also referred to as the Loss Damage Waiver, is not theoretically insurance. Instead, it confirms that your rental company is willing to waive some (or all) of the cost of damage done to the rental car.
Some credit card plans may come with a CDW policy, at least in the US. Note that most credit card insurance plans won’t work in Mexico. Double-check whether your provider offers extended insurance in Mexico. If not, you may want to consider purchasing CDW.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
This is the only type of coverage that will protect you and other occupants in the rental car. For extra peace of mind, make sure you add PAI to your rental car quote. It will set you back under $10 per day.
Personal Accident Insurance will cover the cost of treatment, transport to the hospital, etc. Once again, we hope you’ll never actually have to use it.
What If You Decline Additional Car Insurance in Mexico
Here comes another bummer. When you decline additional coverage offered by your supplier and can’t provide proof of having external protection, the company may ask you for a larger security deposit.
This may seem like a good way to avoid paying for rental car insurance in Mexico at first. In reality, however, the security deposit can quickly become an enormous sum.
This security deposit can easily surpass $2 500. Make sure to have proof of separate insurance plans, and double-check with the company before picking up your rental car.
Damaged Rental Car In Mexico
Fighting rental car damage claims can be tricky, no matter which country you’re in. This should not discourage you from renting a car in Mexico. Nonetheless, every renter should be aware of the local procedures.
You may have heard about international tourists going to Mexican jail after a car collision. While this could happen, many of these horror stories are quite exaggerated.
Yes, you could get detained after a car accident in Mexico. The police do have the right to detain you until money matters are settled (this is where insurance comes in handy).
However, this only happens IF:
someone got injured during the car accident
police cannot determine who was at fault
Note that the local police can have your rental car towed and impounded, too. While the chance of this happening on your Mexico vacation is extremely low, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Bonus- Mexico Rental Car
Unsure where to book your rental car in Mexico? Be sure to check out Rentalmoose. We’re a global car rental broker that serves over 15 000 locations worldwide.
We only offer rental cars from trusted and verified suppliers.
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to continue planning your Mexico adventure! Check out some of our Mexican travel guides:
No matter which destination you pick, be sure to book a rental car. The comfort of being able to adjust your itinerary on the go can only be achieved when traveling by car. A private vehicle is also a safe way to travel during the coronavirus pandemic.
We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
There are plenty of wonderful attractions just a few hours away from Boston. While the largest city in Massachusetts is an exceptional destination in its own right, we all need a getaway from the hustle and bustle of a city sometimes. We’ve hand-picked 10 of the best day trips from Boston.
Take a look at the map below for driving directions to each attraction.
Click one of the links below to jump to each section of the article.
Without further ado, let’s jump into each one of the best day trips from Boston!
Cape Cod National Seashore
lakewentworth
Distance from Boston: 100 miles (160km), 2 hours one way
Cape Cod is a well-known destination among beachgoers. After all, this region sees tens of millions of tourists from across the world every year. Most choose to come here during the summer, that’s when the weather is ideal for a day of sunbathing.
Best Beaches on Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s pristine sandy beaches are among the best on the East Coast. There are 18 different beaches to choose from, either run by one of the local towns or the National Park Service. You have to visit these three, at the very least:
Craigville Beach
Monument Beach
Nauset Beach
If you’ve seen Jaws, parts of Cape Cod may seem weirdly familiar. That’s because this famous blockbuster was actually filmed all over Cape Cod. Be sure to book a private tour to Martha’s Vineyard to visit some of the filming locations.
Consider going on a boat tour to experience the local marine life up close. There are plenty of operators that offer boat tours to spot whales, seals, and even sharks. Check out Bay Spirit Tours for a variety of daily boat trips.
Wompatuck State Park
si_kor
Distance from Boston: 25 miles (40km), 40 minutes one way
Wompatuck State Park is easily one of the favorite day trips from Boston. This park is merely a 40-minute drive away from downtown, ideal for a dramatic change of scenery. Travelers can make the most out of over 5000 acres of forests, hike down one of the numerous trails, or stay overnight at the large campsite.
This state park is a top pick among local bikers. There are plenty of trails, ranging from the paved Whitney Spur Rail Trail through to thrilling off-roading trails, ideal for mountain biking. Click here to check out an interactive map of Wompy’s biking trails.
Note that there aren’t any bike rentals available at the Wompatuck State Park. You can, however, rent a bicycle from SouthShoreCycles around 15 minutes north of the park. Alternatively, you could also pick a rental in Boston before driving over to the park.
Distance from Boston: 45 miles (70km), 1 hour one way
A visit to Myles Standish State Forest makes for one of the best day trips from Boston. This quiet park is located just an hour away from the city. There are plenty of things to do here all year round.
Visitors to Myles Standish State Forest can hike deep into the forest, the hiking trails add up to 13 miles in total. There are also plenty of trails for bicycles, as well as a campground where you can spend the night.
Cool off at College Pond an adventurous day at the park. Go for a dip in the refreshing water, or sunbathe on the sandy beach. You could also rent a canoe, kayak, or a stand-up paddleboard from Nemasket Kayak.
You can drop your car off at the College Pond car park. It costs $8 for vehicles registered in MA and $30 for those registered in other states.
Halibut Point State Park
Alan Wolf
Distance from Boston: 45 miles (70km), 1 hour one way
Note that Good Harbor Beach, as well as the cute coastal town of Rockford, are both located virtually next to Halibut Point State Park. Therefore, you can easily combine visiting three of these destinations at once for a long day trip from Boston.
This state park offers breathtaking scenery, as well as a serene vibe that’s simply ideal for a quiet afternoon out of town. The waterfront rocks make for a perfect spot to have a picnic, so be sure to bring some snacks with you. There are also lots of scenic hiking trails all over the park.
Keep in mind that swimming is not permitted at Halibut Point State Park. If you wish to go for a refreshing dip, you should head to Myles Standish or Cape Cod instead.
Distance from Boston: 40 miles (65km), 45 minutes one way
Fancy a beach day? It doesn’t get much better than Good Harbor Beach. This beautiful sandy beach sits less than an hour away from the heart of Boston, making it ideal for a quick day trip from the city. Whether you want to spend the day swimming in crystal-clear waters, or soaking in the sun, Good Harbor Beach is the place for you.
Beachside parking is available at a daily fee. Note that cars with a resident beach sticker are exempt from paying the fee. You can also check the Gloucester Beaches Facebook page for live updates regarding beachside parking.
Rentalmoose insider tip: If Good Harbor Beach is too full, try to visit one of the other sandy beaches in the area. Stage Fort Park Beach and Wingaersheek Beach are always worth a shot.
Distance from Boston: 45 miles (70km), 50 minutes one way
Rockport is a cute coastal town located roughly halfway between Good Harbor Beach and Halibut Point State Park. It makes for a great stopover during your day trip from Boston to either one of these destinations. Here’s why.
A stroll through the main street of Rockport is a great starting point for your day trip. Admire the colorful houses and take in the quiet, peaceful vibe. You can unwind at one of the local eateries, too.
A visit to Front Beach is an absolute must, especially if you’re not planning to go to Good Harbor Beach afterward. This sandy beach is the go-to spot for both locals and tourists to unwind, hence it can get a bit busy during peak season and on sunny weekends.
Walk along the Rockport Harbor until you reach Bearskin Neck. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of both the bay and the harbor.
Rockport- A Dry Town Since 1856
Did you know that Rockport remained dry for over 160 years? Back in 1856, a resident of this tiny village led a procession of over 200 women, destroying all alcohol products along the way. Alcohol has not been available ever since. That is until restaurants were allowed to serve beer and wine in 2006. Then, in 2019, local officials allowed the only grocery store in the village to sell alcoholic beverages, too.
Distance from Boston: 120 miles (200km), 2 hours 10 minutes one way
Glendale Falls is an absolute must-visit, and its proximity from Boston makes this destination ideal for a quick day trip from the city. In fact, these falls are among the longest in all of Massachusetts.
Go up to the falls to grab a photo like the one above (mind your step!), hike along one of the remote trails, or simply enjoy the 2-hour drive from Boston. You can learn more about the local attractions on the Glendale Falls website.
What’s more, the road leading to the falls is equally stunning as the destination. Scenic driving roads are the highlight of any great road trip, and they can also be a fun attraction on one of your day trips from Boston. Be sure to drive down Route 112, one of the state’s Scenic Byways.
Mount Tom State Reservation Area
Doug Kerr
Distance from Boston: 100 miles (160km), 1 hour 40 minutes one way
A drive to Mount Tom State Reservation Area is one of the best day trips from Boston for any hiking aficionado. This spot is renowned for its vast forests, as well as seemingly endless hiking trails. Don’t take our word for it, just look at the trail map below.
Courtesy of Mt Tom State Reservation
Once you’re at the top of Mount Tom, you can admire panoramic views of the Pioneer Valley. It’s also a favorite spot for birdwatching, as hawks can often be spotted in this part of the park.
Let’s not forget that Mount Tom State Reservation is a year-round destination, too. During the winter, you can come here to enjoy cross-country skiing along the snow-covered hiking trails. No matter what time of the year you visit Mount Tom, there’s always something to do here.
Salem
Wikimedia Commons
Distance from Boston: 25 miles (40km), 40 minutes one way
If you’re in the mood for some local history, then a day trip from Boston to the town of Salem is an absolute must. This picturesque town sits less than 30 miles away from the city, making it the perfect destination for a quick afternoon trip out of the city.
This coastal town is famous for its historic significance, particularly the witch trials of the 1690s. You certainly have to visit the local Salem Witch Museum to find out more about these 1692 events. Admission costs $15 for adults, $13.5 for seniors over 65, and $12 for children under 14.
As Salem is known as the Witch Town, you should consider visiting one of the local psychic parlors while you’re here. Head down to Omen at 184 Essex Street, where you can find out about your future during a fortune-telling session. Omen specializes in anything from palmistry all the way to Tarot and Voodoo.
White Mountain National Forest
weesam2010
Distance from Boston: 160 miles (260km), 2 hours 30 minutes one way
At this point, you could argue that we’ve saved the best for last. While we won’t argue whether or not White Mountain National Forest is the greatest day trip from Boston, it is the furthest from the city. In fact, you’ll have to drive for roughly two and a half hours one way to reach this natural wonderland. Is it worth it? Continue reading to find out.
Scenic Drives in White Mountain National Forest
Kancamagus Scenic Byway
White Mountain Trail Byway
Southern Driving Loop
Scenic driving is one of the best activities in the White Mountains. Don’t miss the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, often considered to be one of the best roads in all of New Hampshire. Expect panoramic views, thrilling chicanes, and plenty of overlooks to safely pull over and take in the beauty. The loop stretches for 34 miles in total and connects with the White Mountain Trail Byway.
After you’re done with scenic driving, stretch your legs at one of the park’s numerous hiking trails. Pay a visit to Flume Gorge, the Elephant Head Trail, and the Basin-Cascades Trail.
You can also go on a tram ride to enjoy the best views, or go for a refreshing dip at Echo Lake Beach. The attractions here are nearly endless!
White Mountain National Forest is a great destination that can be enjoyed all year long. If you plan to visit this park in winter, put your skis on and enjoy the best runs at Cannon Mountain.
Rentalmoose insider tip: check out this blog post to properly prepare for a winter road tirp.
Bonus- The Best Way Of Getting Around Massachusetts
There you have it, those are the best day trips from Boston!
No matter which destination you pick, be sure to book a rental car. The comfort of being able to adjust your itinerary on the go can only be achieved when traveling by car. A private vehicle is also a safe way to travel during the coronavirus pandemic.
Unsure about renting a car or taking your own vehicle? This blog post may help.
We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
Check out this list of 28 of the most breathtaking bridges across the world. Some of them are the pinnacle of modern engineering, while others date back hundreds of years. We’ve compiled a list of the most famous bridges in North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Autralia.
We’ve divided this post into different continents. You can quickly jump to each section by clicking one of the links below.
Brooklyn Bridge needs no introduction. Not only is it a major landmark in the Big Apple, but it also doubles as one of the most Instagrammable places in town.
This bridge has been a vital connection between Manhattan and Brooklyn ever since the completion of its construction back in 1883. Crossing the bridge, either on foot or on a bicycle, is an absolute must-do on any trip to NYC.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
by johnlogins
Location: Tampa, Florida, USA
What makes Tampa’s Sunshine Skyway Bridge stand out from the crowd is its impressive size. In fact, this is the longest cable-stayed concrete bridge on the planet! Construction was completed in the late 1980s, and the bridge has been a local landmark ever since.
Its gigantic size makes the Sunshine Skyway Bridge hard to miss when in Tampa. It’s just one of many great spots to see in town, click here for more attractions in this Florida city.
Golden Gate
courtesy of Fshoq
Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Like the previously mentioned Brooklyn Bridge, Golden Gate needs no introduction. This spectacular structure has been a distinctive landmark of San Francisco ever since its completion in 1937. The entire bridge was painted red to improve its visibility in bad weather conditions, which are common in that part of California.
Bixby Creek Bridge
by Foundry Co
Location: Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best driving roads on the planet. Hence, it makes perfect sense for one of the most famous bridges to be a part of it! The entire PCH stretches for over 1000 kilometers/600 miles, making it the longest state route in California.
Even if you have never been to the sunny state of California, this bridge may seem familiar. It’s a popular shooting location for various blockbusters and TV shows.
Seven Mile Bridge
Meyyappan S
Location: The Keys, Florida, USA
The Seven Mile Bridge is yet another famous bridge that’s located in the Sunshine State. As the name suggests, this spectacular structure stretches for 7 miles atop the turquoise waters.
Moreover, this bridge is a part of the scenic Overseas Highway that connects the Florida Keys to the mainland. A drive here makes for an ideal day trip from Miami, too.
Confederation Bridge
by Jamie in Bytown
Location: Borden-Carleton, PE, Canada
This is yet another bridge that became famous due to its sheer scale. That’s because the Confederation Bridge is the world’s longest bridge built atop ice-covered water. While not as long as some of the other bridges on our list, it still is worth mentioning.
Oh, and it’s a part of the Trans-Canada Highway. Driving across this enormous road that spans nearly 5000 miles, or 7000 kilometers, is the perfect itinerary for a road trip across Canada.
Royal Gorge Bridge
by Dave Soldano
Location: Royal Gorge, Colorado, USA
Walking across this spectacular suspension bridge is not for the faint-hearted. It was completed back in 1929 and broke the world record as the highest bridge on the planet, 955 feet (291 meters) above the Arkansas River.
It wasn’t until 2001 when the Royal Gorge Bridge was stripped of its title by an even higher bridge in China. Despite not being the world’s highest bridge anymore, it’s still worth a visit during a Colorado road trip.
Hartland Covered Bridge
by Dennis Jarvis
Location: New Brunswick, Canada
At first sight, you may not believe that this Canadian bridge would hold any world record. Afterall, it doesn’t exactly look as glamorous as the Golden Gate, and it’s definitely not as high as the Royal Gorge Bridge. However, it is certainly unique.
The Hartland Covered Bridge is the world’s longest covered bridge at 1282 feet (391 meters).
The Rialto Bridge is the oldest bridge built over the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. It also doubles as one of the most popular attractions in town.
This stone arch bridge dates all the way back to the late 16th century, it’s been a crucial structure ever since. Be sure to continue reading, as the famous Rialto Bridge isn’t the only Italian bridge that’s made it on our list.
Stari Most
by pixelRaw
Location: Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The original Stari Most was a bridge built by the Ottomans back in the 16th century. It became a landmark, as well as a showcase of classic Ottoman architecture.
Sadly, Stari Most was destroyed during the Bosnian war in the early 1990s. It was then rebuilt at the beginning of the 21st century. It’s been a major tourist attraction since 2004.
Ponte Vecchio
by Justin Brown
Location: Florence, Italy
The famous Ponte Vecchio is the second Italian bridge that has made it on our list. Its history dates back to the mid-1300s, and the structure can still be admired in modern-day Florence.
Ponte Vecchio was the first segmental arch bridge built in the West. What’s more, it’s also the oldest of all bridges in the city of Florence.
Great Belt Bridge
Stig Nygaard
Location: Tårup, Denmark
This spectacular bridge is a vital connection between the eastern and western parts of Denmark. Contrary to popular belief, this engineering marvel is more than just one bridge! Nonetheless, it’s commonly known as one of the most famous bridges of all time.
The structure stretches for 18 kilometers, or 11 miles, in total. It’s made up of the East Bridge (6.9km long), the East Tunnel (8km), and the West Bridge (6.6km). You can learn more about the history of the famous Great Belt Bridge on its official website.
Tower Bridge
Fuzzypiggy
Location: London, United Kingdom
The monumental Tower Bridge is a London landmark that’s famous all over the world. It should also be one of the places you visit on your London itinerary.
The Neo-Gothic architecture makes this the most distinctive bridge in the city, and perhaps even all of the United Kingdom. The busy Thames River is full of large ships and boats. You may just see the bridge’s middle section lift up if you’re lucky.
Don’t confuse this with London Bridge! Tower Bridge is a lot more sophisticated and famous, whereas London Bridge is pretty regular.
Magdeburg Water Bridge
by Olivier Cleynen
Location: Magdeburg, Germany
The bridge in Magdeburg is a real engineering marvel, and we can guarantee you’ve never seen anything else like it. The Magdeburg Water Bridge opened back in 2003 and has instantly become a point of interest in this part of Germany.
This impressive construction spans nearly a kilometer, making it the world’s longest navigable aqueduct. Tourists can walk along the wide pathways, located at each end of the bridge.
Charles Bridge
by Miroslav Petrasko
Location: Prague, Czech Republic
The historic Charles Bridge is perhaps the most famous landmark in all of Prague. This beautiful bridge has been around since the early 1400s. It was the only bridge connecting the city’s Old Town to the castle up until the 1840s.
Don’t forget that this bridge doubles as one of the biggest attractions in town. Hence, it’s recommended to visit it early in the morning if you wish to avoid crowds.
Viaduc de Millau
Bert Kaufmann
Location: Millau, France
The Viaduc de Millau is yet another piece of state-of-the-art modern engineering. It’s located in the South of France near the small town of Millau. This enormous bridge is a part of the A75 highway. It’s also one of the most famous bridges in Europe.
This award-winning structure first opened to the public back in 2004. It remains the tallest bridge (not to be confused with the highest bridge) on the planet. The distance between the top of the mast and the bottom of the structure measures a whopping 270 meters (890ft)!
Chapel Bridge
by suju-foto
Location: Lucerne, Switzerland
The Chapel Bridge, or the Kapellbrücke in German, may not be the biggest structure in the world. It is, however, one of the prettiest by far. It’s located in the heart of Lucerne, a beautiful Swiss town around 40 minutes south of Zurich.
The Chapel Bridge is the world’s oldest covered wooden bridge. The bridge was originally built in 1360, though it had nearly burned down in the 90s. Currently, visitors can walk across a reconstructed version of the historic structure.
The 15th July Martyrs Bridge, often simply referred to as the Bosphorus bridge, is unlike any other in the world. It’s located in the heart of Istanbul, the capital of Turkey.
This bridge was constructed above the Bosphorus Strait in 1973. It connects the European and Asian parts of Istanbul. That’s right, you’ll be on a different continent as soon as you cross this bridge!
Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
courtesy of Max Pixel
Location: Kobe, Japan
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge in Japan is yet another masterpiece of modern engineering. It broke world records virtually as soon as it first opened in the late 1990s. Today, commuters use it to get between the cities of Kobe and Iwaya.
This monumental structure still holds the world record for the longest central span of any suspension bridge on the planet. The highway is suspended around 70 meters, or 230 feet, above the Seto Inland Sea.
Hangzhou Bay Bridge
by HighestBridges
Location: Jiaxing, China
When it comes to the Hangzhou Bay Bridge, the sheer scale of this structure is its main highlight. It currently sits as the world’s fourth longest transoceanic bridge on the planet.
The Hangzhou Bay Bridge measures an impressive 35 kilometers, or 22 miles, in length.
Si-O-Se Pol
courtesy of Alluring World
Location: Isfahan, Iran
The eccentric Si-O-Se Pol Bridge is the most famous symbol of Isfahan, a city in central Iran. This monumental structure is the longest of the 11 bridges in Isfahan. It was constructed back in the early 17th century.
The bridge spans nearly 300 meters, or 980 feet, in length. Back when it was built, the Si-O-Se Pol was used both as a bridge and a dam.
Seri Wawasan Bridge
by Nik Azwaa Azmi
Location: Putrajaya, Malaysia
The Seri Wawasan Bridge is easily one of the most famous bridges in the world. This futuristic structure is one of the main connections in Putrajaya, a planned Malaysian city that was built in 2001. It quickly became famous due to its spectacular design that resembles a sailing ship.
If you’re planning a road trip to Malaysia, consider stopping over in Putrajaya to see this incredible bridge. The best time to visit has got to be after dusk falls.
Helix Bridge
by Daniel Peckham
Location: Singapore
This marvelous bridge fits right in with the rest of Marina Bay, a beautiful part of Singapore. It may not be the biggest bridge in the world, though it’s one of the most impressive ones for sure.
What makes this bridge unique is its design. The shape of the bridge resembles DNA! You simply have to stroll across this marvelous structure during your stay in town.
Tsing Ma Bridge
by Kai Yan, Joseph Wong
Location: Hong Kong SAR
It may have been beaten in terms of world records by now, though Hong Kong’s Tsing Ma Bridge remains one of the most impressive structures of its kind. At the time of its completion in 1997, it was the world’s second-longest suspension bridge at a1377m or 4518ft.
Today, the Tsing Ma Bridge still holds the record for the world’s longest bridge that carries both a motorway and a railway.
Africa may not have seemingly endless transatlantic bridges that you would see in other parts of the world. However, the 6th of October Bridge in downtown Cairo is arguably the most significant structure of this kind in all of Africa.
This busy bridge connects two districts of Cairo, that would otherwise be separated by the Nile River.
The famous Sydney Harbour Bridge is arguably just as much of a landmark as the Opera House. Both of the landmarks are just a short walk away from each other, sightseeing them is the ideal way to spend the day in Sydney.
Adventure seekers can go on a guided tour and climb to the top of the bridge! How cool is that?
Sea Cliff Bridge
by illawarrashowcase
Location: Stanwell Park, NSW
The Sea Cliff Bridge is a major highlight of the Grand Pacific Drive, which is one of the most scenic drives on the planet. Though far from the biggest in the world, the dramatic scenery makes Sea Cliff Bridge one of the best in the world.
Story Bridge
by Andrew S
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
The Story Bridge is a landmark of Brisbane, aside from being one of the most famous bridges in the world. Its construction began all the way back in the mid-1930s. Today, it proudly represents the city of Queensland.
Just like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is possible to climb this enormous bridge. Pricing starts at around $120 per person for the express climb. Click here for more details on climbing Story Bridge.
