Nelson is one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand's South Island and a campervan hire in Nelson gives you plenty of holiday options. You will enjoy the freedom of stopping when and where you choose and making use of some of the relaxing camping spots on offer.
Campervans solve two of the biggest costs associated with planning any holiday - finding transport and booking accommodation. With a campervan, you have the transport to go wherever you choose, a place to cook, a bathroom and - most importantly - a place to lay your head after a busy day of sightseeing. It's great value for money and gives you the freedom and flexibility to travel on your own schedule.
By booking a campervan hire in Nelson, you're in charge of your own holiday. If you find a place you like, you can stay for an extra day or two. Instead of sleeping in a motel, you can find a picnic area or campground by a river and enjoy the natural beauty that the Nelson region has to offer.
Known as New Zealand's sunshine capital, Nelson has everything from mountains to beaches as well as arts and crafts, quirky cafes, vineyards and a variety of outdoor activities. If you enjoy museums and galleries, Nelson has an unusual selection to choose from, including the Hoglund Art Glass Studio and Gallery which is one of the city's iconic attractions. Another treat is the WOW Museum which features Wearable Art garments from New Zealand's national awards as well as a world class collection of rare and classic cars.
When you're ready to venture outside the city, a campervan hire in Nelson can start you on a journey around the entire South Island. You can choose your own itinerary to visit places like Westport with its long history of mining, the hot pools at Hanmer Springs and the glaciers at Fox and Franz Josef. Other great South Island experiences include Haast with its jet boat rides and skiing in Queenstown. Continue on to Christchurch and travel further south into Southland if you have plenty of time. Then return through Kaikoura for a whale watching experience that will take your breath away.
If you don't have enough time to go right around the South Island, you can book a campervan hire in Nelson and travel around the scenic top of the South Island. Here you can find the Abel Tasman National Park, which has plenty to offer visitors at every level of fitness. But if you want a rest, just stop at one of the gorgeous unspoilt beaches for as long as you like. With a campervan, you're the boss.
Sunrise Holidays Campervan Hire has been operating in New Zealand for the past 18 years with the last 10 years being operated by Roydon Anderson and his wife from their home base in beautiful Nelson, New Zealand.
Travel and Leisure
Travel and Leisure Headline
A Magical Day in a Deux-Chevaux
Many years ago on a European back-packing trip with a boyfriend, I was introduced to the Citroën 2CV or deux chevaux. On a six-week tour of various countries and historical sites he took 90 photos of the cars and 10 of me, I think you can guess where the relationship ended up.
History aside I thought that my husband would have lots of fun driving a vintage car around Provence for a day. The answer was simple, there is a Dutch/French company called 2CV Experience that rents lovingly restored "two horsepower" cars for the day. It could not have been easier, as they are based minutes outside of Aix-en Provence. They currently have 12 cars and are building their inventory to 15 shortly. These pristine cars have been fully restored by hand, painted meticulously and are ready to go when you arrive. All of the cars are named: Tournesol, Olivier, St-Tropez, Menthe, Sahara...we were handed the keys to Lavende for the day.
The Citroën 2CV was produced from 1948 to 1990. Technically well-built and engineered the car, was affordable and literally designed to move the French rural population from a dependence on animals (horses and carts) to the automobile. The car continues to be iconic. It is minimalist by design, lightweight, offers easy serviceability and consistent reliability. In 42 years of production over 3.8 million cars were produced.
I could not have dreamed of a more perfect day in the middle of March. It was a brilliantly sunny, cloudless, warm day. At 10am we were instructed on how to "roll-back" the canvas convertible top, from then on it was a "topless-day" until 19:00.
We had a vague idea for our day-trip. It looked something like; head to the coast and then "discuss" whether to head left or right. This would be followed by a more hearty talk about where to eat lunch and then finally a more silent trip back to home base. Thankfully, 2CV Experience saved the day by providing a detailed map, route instructions and tourist notes for a 145km tour of l'Etang de Berre. There are actually seven lakes but Etang de Berre is the largest. The area was formed during the last ice age. This inland water body is fed by fresh water sources. The whole area is over 20km long and 16km wide. There are numerous tiny villages and towns to be visited along the way.
The first stop was Chateau La Barben, just outside La Barben. There has been a structure in place since 1064. The castle has been restored and now accommodates several needs; day tourists, overnight B&B guests and special function receptions. Unfortunately we arrived early season, and too early in the day so could not view the interior. Certainly the exterior is well restored and the location is a beautiful cool oasis, surrounded by water sources.
The next towns were Pelissanne, Salon de Provence, Grans, and Saint Chamas. Each town has some unique sites and photo opportunities. Hands-down the village of Grans was our favoured stop. The village is small and maintains a real Provencal feel with a mix of residences, restaurants and cafes. This tiny village has a permanent population of about 3800 residents.
The other towns were not highly remarkable although each one has some unique characteristics and offers some photo opportunities at the most unexpected moments. Although the rental company provides all the tools for a picnic, you still need to spend a few moments purchasing the ingredients. We ended up in Istres at a restaurant for lunch instead. This is an ancient town has a few remaining Roman sites surrounded by a bustling town. A quick drive through the area and it is clear you should not venture too far from your car and keep your valuables close at hand. That being said we stumbled across Pinçée de Sel for lunch on the main street and it was excellent.
The post lunch stops included the village of Saint Mitre les Remparts, this village should NOT be missed. The ancient town was surrounded by high defensive walls, which date to back to the 14th century. There are two main entrances into the old village, the North and South gates. Do not miss the residences built into the old walls of the village. This small village is a lovely, relatively quiet stop on the tourist circuit. Unfortunately, time was ticking and the sun was headed the wrong direction so the next towns were literally drive-bys for another time.
My husband, the willing driver was warned about some of the idiosyncrasies of the car. First up was where the hazard lights were just in case of any unforeseen events. Important details included the fact that there is NO power steering, NO power brakes, and the transmission is unsynchronized. Translated that all means that one needs to use a little muscle to drive the car and must think ahead. With an unsynchronized clutch if you need to downshift into first gear, the car must come to a complete stop before engaging the gear. The gearshift is interesting as it is on the dashboard, with a unique shift pattern. Lavendre was fun to drive, cornering took a little effort to manhandle the steering, and a rolling stop in second gear was the name of the game, avoid full stops if possible. The car accelerated well. The car seems to perform best at 90km/hr and below; much better to enjoy the sights and sounds of the little towns, natural vistas, and historic monuments along the route.
At the end of the day it was really a "magical" experience in an old classic. The small team at this company is well-organized, professional, accommodating and they provide excellent route notes! Otherwise we might still be "discussing" the directions.
History aside I thought that my husband would have lots of fun driving a vintage car around Provence for a day. The answer was simple, there is a Dutch/French company called 2CV Experience that rents lovingly restored "two horsepower" cars for the day. It could not have been easier, as they are based minutes outside of Aix-en Provence. They currently have 12 cars and are building their inventory to 15 shortly. These pristine cars have been fully restored by hand, painted meticulously and are ready to go when you arrive. All of the cars are named: Tournesol, Olivier, St-Tropez, Menthe, Sahara...we were handed the keys to Lavende for the day.
The Citroën 2CV was produced from 1948 to 1990. Technically well-built and engineered the car, was affordable and literally designed to move the French rural population from a dependence on animals (horses and carts) to the automobile. The car continues to be iconic. It is minimalist by design, lightweight, offers easy serviceability and consistent reliability. In 42 years of production over 3.8 million cars were produced.
I could not have dreamed of a more perfect day in the middle of March. It was a brilliantly sunny, cloudless, warm day. At 10am we were instructed on how to "roll-back" the canvas convertible top, from then on it was a "topless-day" until 19:00.
We had a vague idea for our day-trip. It looked something like; head to the coast and then "discuss" whether to head left or right. This would be followed by a more hearty talk about where to eat lunch and then finally a more silent trip back to home base. Thankfully, 2CV Experience saved the day by providing a detailed map, route instructions and tourist notes for a 145km tour of l'Etang de Berre. There are actually seven lakes but Etang de Berre is the largest. The area was formed during the last ice age. This inland water body is fed by fresh water sources. The whole area is over 20km long and 16km wide. There are numerous tiny villages and towns to be visited along the way.
The first stop was Chateau La Barben, just outside La Barben. There has been a structure in place since 1064. The castle has been restored and now accommodates several needs; day tourists, overnight B&B guests and special function receptions. Unfortunately we arrived early season, and too early in the day so could not view the interior. Certainly the exterior is well restored and the location is a beautiful cool oasis, surrounded by water sources.
The next towns were Pelissanne, Salon de Provence, Grans, and Saint Chamas. Each town has some unique sites and photo opportunities. Hands-down the village of Grans was our favoured stop. The village is small and maintains a real Provencal feel with a mix of residences, restaurants and cafes. This tiny village has a permanent population of about 3800 residents.
The other towns were not highly remarkable although each one has some unique characteristics and offers some photo opportunities at the most unexpected moments. Although the rental company provides all the tools for a picnic, you still need to spend a few moments purchasing the ingredients. We ended up in Istres at a restaurant for lunch instead. This is an ancient town has a few remaining Roman sites surrounded by a bustling town. A quick drive through the area and it is clear you should not venture too far from your car and keep your valuables close at hand. That being said we stumbled across Pinçée de Sel for lunch on the main street and it was excellent.
The post lunch stops included the village of Saint Mitre les Remparts, this village should NOT be missed. The ancient town was surrounded by high defensive walls, which date to back to the 14th century. There are two main entrances into the old village, the North and South gates. Do not miss the residences built into the old walls of the village. This small village is a lovely, relatively quiet stop on the tourist circuit. Unfortunately, time was ticking and the sun was headed the wrong direction so the next towns were literally drive-bys for another time.
My husband, the willing driver was warned about some of the idiosyncrasies of the car. First up was where the hazard lights were just in case of any unforeseen events. Important details included the fact that there is NO power steering, NO power brakes, and the transmission is unsynchronized. Translated that all means that one needs to use a little muscle to drive the car and must think ahead. With an unsynchronized clutch if you need to downshift into first gear, the car must come to a complete stop before engaging the gear. The gearshift is interesting as it is on the dashboard, with a unique shift pattern. Lavendre was fun to drive, cornering took a little effort to manhandle the steering, and a rolling stop in second gear was the name of the game, avoid full stops if possible. The car accelerated well. The car seems to perform best at 90km/hr and below; much better to enjoy the sights and sounds of the little towns, natural vistas, and historic monuments along the route.
At the end of the day it was really a "magical" experience in an old classic. The small team at this company is well-organized, professional, accommodating and they provide excellent route notes! Otherwise we might still be "discussing" the directions.
How To Find Affordable Vacation Packages Online
Going on an early vacation is a very relaxing experience and if you have a very hectic and tiresome work routine, it is all the more reason to make sure that you go on a vacation whenever you can get your annual leaves approved. However an unplanned vacation can stressful as you have to make travel and stay arrangement for all the locations, arrange for transport and spend a lot of money on air fare.
Online Vacation Planning:
One of the most convenient ways to plan a vacation is to do it online as there are so many things you can take care of while sitting at home. There are several benefits of researching for vacation deals online which include:
* Ease of access to unlimited websites which offer hundreds of vacation plans and different packages at suitable rates.
* You can research different places on the internet and then choose the package which caters to your demands.
* You can compare the prices being offered by different companies and then choose the one which offers best rates and suitable facilities.
* You can also read the reviews posted by people who have availed a specific package and read their comments about the services provided by the company.
Before you have narrowed down a list of packages which are affordable and attractive, you also need to decide whether you want to get an all inclusive package or do you want to arrange your own air tickets and transport. Usually it is best to opt for an all inclusive package as it is not only cheaper but also gives you time to relax while the company takes care of all the arrangements.
Finalizing The Package:
Before you finalize a package and pay for it, make sure that the company you are choosing has a good reputation and has been in business for quite some time so that you know you will get your money's worth. There are many good vacation packages available online and when you choose carefully, you can enjoy your holidays immensely. By choosing a company that has no reputation and business history, you are taking a big risk as it might be a fraud and you will not only end up wasting money but your vacation will also be ruined completely. Also, since you are supposed to pay for online booking via your credit card, it is best to make sure that you are hiring a reputable company.
You can easily plan a vacation to Hawaii online by visiting different websites and finding the best package. You can stay at the best Hawaii hotels and enjoy your vacations immensely.
Online Vacation Planning:
One of the most convenient ways to plan a vacation is to do it online as there are so many things you can take care of while sitting at home. There are several benefits of researching for vacation deals online which include:
* Ease of access to unlimited websites which offer hundreds of vacation plans and different packages at suitable rates.
* You can research different places on the internet and then choose the package which caters to your demands.
* You can compare the prices being offered by different companies and then choose the one which offers best rates and suitable facilities.
* You can also read the reviews posted by people who have availed a specific package and read their comments about the services provided by the company.
Before you have narrowed down a list of packages which are affordable and attractive, you also need to decide whether you want to get an all inclusive package or do you want to arrange your own air tickets and transport. Usually it is best to opt for an all inclusive package as it is not only cheaper but also gives you time to relax while the company takes care of all the arrangements.
Finalizing The Package:
Before you finalize a package and pay for it, make sure that the company you are choosing has a good reputation and has been in business for quite some time so that you know you will get your money's worth. There are many good vacation packages available online and when you choose carefully, you can enjoy your holidays immensely. By choosing a company that has no reputation and business history, you are taking a big risk as it might be a fraud and you will not only end up wasting money but your vacation will also be ruined completely. Also, since you are supposed to pay for online booking via your credit card, it is best to make sure that you are hiring a reputable company.
You can easily plan a vacation to Hawaii online by visiting different websites and finding the best package. You can stay at the best Hawaii hotels and enjoy your vacations immensely.
Do You NEED to Go to Exotic Lands for An Unforgettable Holiday?
A simple answer...NO!! Most people do not realise the amazing possibilities the Costa Blanca has to offer. All you have to do is choose, do as much or as little as you want, its your holiday. I have listed below 10 of them but there are many many more. My previous Blog was how to book a cheap flights, car hire and villa. Now the holiday of a lifetime.
FIESTAS
There are so many wonderful fiestas celebrated in the Costa Blanca that you are bound to see one whatever time of year you travel. In preparation, the local people bake, cook, make fabulous costumes and organise huge firework displays. There are elaborately decorated and traditional costumes, re-enactments of historical battles, some of the loudest and most colourful fireworks you will ever see and hear, and lots of delicious (and sometimes free) food and drink for all. One thing is for sure - you should visit a Spanish fiesta at least once in your lifetime.
BENIDORM PALACE, COSTA BLANCA
A magnificent and gloriously colourful BIG show of international renown. Feast your eyes on the first-class, fabulous dancers in exotic, spectacularly glamorous feathered costumes who will take your breath away. A full programme of original, top artistes from around the world ensure you are thoroughly entertained. A must-do in Benidorm. Opens at 9 pm but get there for 8.30pm. Dinner is served soon after. Their menu is a delicious combination of fish, first class meat and vegetables. Vegetarian menus on request and Gluten Free on some menu categories. Showtime is at 10.30 pm. The Benidorm Palace is completely non-smoking.
UNFORGETTABLE SAILING EXPERIENCE
Picture this, you board a sleek Catamaran, enjoy a calm sailing around beautiful coves of the uninhabited, yes uninhabited, Island of Tabarca. Here they will anchor, and while they prepare a delicious meal on board, you enjoy a fantastic swim and snorkel in the crystal clear turquoise waters a few meters away from the idyllic beaches. The Catamaran is fully equipped with bar, toilets, showers on deck and a professional crew to pamper you with everything you need. Heaven!!!
COSTA BLANCA WALKS
Walking on the Costa Blanca is a popular past time for hikers of all tastes and abilities. However because it is not as well known a walking destination as say Mallorca, the countryside remains unspoilt. From September to May this area offers some of the best winter walking in Europe under sunny skies with temperatures in the 60s (13-18 C). From casual ramblers to experienced walkers, all have been impressed by the beauty and variety of the walks and found it to be a great alternative to better-known but more expensive winter walking areas.
SWIM IN THE WATERFALLS
Under no circumstances should you miss a day trip to visit the Fonts de Algar waterfalls and then onto the 13c fortress town of Guadalest (intriguingly the old village and castle is accessed through a tunnel carved from the rock and when you reach the other end you seem to have been transported to another age). Numerous small fountains that merge into marvellous waterfalls and small lakes. Here you can find many paths to practice hiking and specially natural pools carved by the famous waterfalls. In the Summer, visiting the Fountains is a great alternative to a day at the beach, as the water temperature of 18C offers you a refreshing swim and you can always find a shady spot. So dont forget your swimming costume.
EXPERIENCE THE FLAMENCO PASSION
Flamenco is a style of music which is considered part of the culture of Spain, but is actually native to only one region: Andalusia. The Flamenco that tourists are presented with in the coastal haunts is far from the true form of Flamenco but at the very least its fun. Unless you are a Flamenco aficionado, go and enjoy the music, the dance, the colourful costumes and above all the passion.
NATURAL PARK OF IFACH ROCK, CALPE
Rising from the sparkling blue Mediterranean sea, the precipitous rock formation called Penon De Ifach watches over the bay of Calpe. One of the most famous sights along the Costa Blanca coastline is now a protected Natural Park. The summit of Penon De Ifach offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and makes it well worth the effort of the 330m climb to the summit. Some rare bird species can be seen on the rock and many species of wild flower.
GO KARTING
La Font Santa Karting is one of the best and most competitive go-kart tracks in Spain with 700 meters of circuit at 10 meters wide. It is one of the all time great tracks and is owned by the father of the junior champion of Espana, Adrian Valles. Set in the countryside there are lots of outdoor space and recreation grounds with 2 large swimming pools as well as a bar/restaurant for spectators.
VIBRANT CITIES
Alicante - from golden beaches and lush parks to designer shops and street markets. Add a mountain-top castle, beautiful churches and palaces and a charming old quarter and it all makes for an alluring taste of typical Spain
Valencia - The city, surrounded by immense beaches, gracefully mixes new and old. Stroll through the old city center, the cathedral, the palace and enjoy the very best tapas and wine by the market. Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Science.
FOR THE SPORTY ONES
You can enjoy a different sport every day on your holiday if you want to. Makes me tired just thinking about it!!!. Tennis, Golf, Rock climbing, various watersports including Windsurfing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Waterskiing, Parasailing etc. Scuba diving is amazing as the rocky headlands and bays offer excellent sub-aqua sport for the snorkel or scuba-diver. Swim with the dolphins.
FIESTAS
There are so many wonderful fiestas celebrated in the Costa Blanca that you are bound to see one whatever time of year you travel. In preparation, the local people bake, cook, make fabulous costumes and organise huge firework displays. There are elaborately decorated and traditional costumes, re-enactments of historical battles, some of the loudest and most colourful fireworks you will ever see and hear, and lots of delicious (and sometimes free) food and drink for all. One thing is for sure - you should visit a Spanish fiesta at least once in your lifetime.
BENIDORM PALACE, COSTA BLANCA
A magnificent and gloriously colourful BIG show of international renown. Feast your eyes on the first-class, fabulous dancers in exotic, spectacularly glamorous feathered costumes who will take your breath away. A full programme of original, top artistes from around the world ensure you are thoroughly entertained. A must-do in Benidorm. Opens at 9 pm but get there for 8.30pm. Dinner is served soon after. Their menu is a delicious combination of fish, first class meat and vegetables. Vegetarian menus on request and Gluten Free on some menu categories. Showtime is at 10.30 pm. The Benidorm Palace is completely non-smoking.
UNFORGETTABLE SAILING EXPERIENCE
Picture this, you board a sleek Catamaran, enjoy a calm sailing around beautiful coves of the uninhabited, yes uninhabited, Island of Tabarca. Here they will anchor, and while they prepare a delicious meal on board, you enjoy a fantastic swim and snorkel in the crystal clear turquoise waters a few meters away from the idyllic beaches. The Catamaran is fully equipped with bar, toilets, showers on deck and a professional crew to pamper you with everything you need. Heaven!!!
COSTA BLANCA WALKS
Walking on the Costa Blanca is a popular past time for hikers of all tastes and abilities. However because it is not as well known a walking destination as say Mallorca, the countryside remains unspoilt. From September to May this area offers some of the best winter walking in Europe under sunny skies with temperatures in the 60s (13-18 C). From casual ramblers to experienced walkers, all have been impressed by the beauty and variety of the walks and found it to be a great alternative to better-known but more expensive winter walking areas.
SWIM IN THE WATERFALLS
Under no circumstances should you miss a day trip to visit the Fonts de Algar waterfalls and then onto the 13c fortress town of Guadalest (intriguingly the old village and castle is accessed through a tunnel carved from the rock and when you reach the other end you seem to have been transported to another age). Numerous small fountains that merge into marvellous waterfalls and small lakes. Here you can find many paths to practice hiking and specially natural pools carved by the famous waterfalls. In the Summer, visiting the Fountains is a great alternative to a day at the beach, as the water temperature of 18C offers you a refreshing swim and you can always find a shady spot. So dont forget your swimming costume.
EXPERIENCE THE FLAMENCO PASSION
Flamenco is a style of music which is considered part of the culture of Spain, but is actually native to only one region: Andalusia. The Flamenco that tourists are presented with in the coastal haunts is far from the true form of Flamenco but at the very least its fun. Unless you are a Flamenco aficionado, go and enjoy the music, the dance, the colourful costumes and above all the passion.
NATURAL PARK OF IFACH ROCK, CALPE
Rising from the sparkling blue Mediterranean sea, the precipitous rock formation called Penon De Ifach watches over the bay of Calpe. One of the most famous sights along the Costa Blanca coastline is now a protected Natural Park. The summit of Penon De Ifach offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and makes it well worth the effort of the 330m climb to the summit. Some rare bird species can be seen on the rock and many species of wild flower.
GO KARTING
La Font Santa Karting is one of the best and most competitive go-kart tracks in Spain with 700 meters of circuit at 10 meters wide. It is one of the all time great tracks and is owned by the father of the junior champion of Espana, Adrian Valles. Set in the countryside there are lots of outdoor space and recreation grounds with 2 large swimming pools as well as a bar/restaurant for spectators.
VIBRANT CITIES
Alicante - from golden beaches and lush parks to designer shops and street markets. Add a mountain-top castle, beautiful churches and palaces and a charming old quarter and it all makes for an alluring taste of typical Spain
Valencia - The city, surrounded by immense beaches, gracefully mixes new and old. Stroll through the old city center, the cathedral, the palace and enjoy the very best tapas and wine by the market. Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Science.
FOR THE SPORTY ONES
You can enjoy a different sport every day on your holiday if you want to. Makes me tired just thinking about it!!!. Tennis, Golf, Rock climbing, various watersports including Windsurfing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Waterskiing, Parasailing etc. Scuba diving is amazing as the rocky headlands and bays offer excellent sub-aqua sport for the snorkel or scuba-diver. Swim with the dolphins.
Good Driving Habits For Everyone
There are a number of things that constitute good driving habits. These include your safety as a driver and the safety of other road users. It also includes taking care of the vehicle you are driving. To qualify as a good driver, you need to know the following driving instructions.
The first thing that every driver needs to do is fasten the safety belt. By doing so you are preventing possible injury in case of extreme circumstances. If you have a passenger with you, ask them to fasten their safety belts as well. When with children, it can be difficult to concentrate since children need extra attention. Normal safety belts are not recommended; therefore make sure you fasten the child with the proper belt. Make sure that all the doors are locked.
Make use of mirrors, rear view and side mirrors so as to be aware of your surroundings. Adjust the driver side and passenger side mirrors before you start to drive. The side mirrors are in optimal position when you can see a portion of the door handle at the bottom end of side mirror. If you are using a vehicle you are not used to, take a moment to familiarize yourself.
Avoid over speeding; follow the speed limits that are set by the state. Look out for signs on the road that indicate the recommended limit. Your speed as a driver depends on a number of factor. One factor is the condition of the road. Reduce your speed if the road is icy or slippery to avoid an accident. Also, the tire condition also matters; make sure the tires are inflated and tread. The road density also matters as well as the visibility. It is dangerous to speed in foggy or dusty conditions.
Be attentive as you drive. Do not drink and drive since this will lower your alertness. You might not respond as quickly as possible in case of an emergency. Taking illegal drugs will also impair your judgment. They have varying strengths so it is impossible to anticipate their effects. Some of those drugs give a false sense of alertness causing drivers to take risks that are not thought through. Prescription medicine like cough syrups can cause drowsiness which leads to impairment. Avoid using cell phones while driving. This takes your attention from the road. Do not text or read maps while on the wheel. If you have to do this, pull over first.
It is advisable to drive only when in the right state of mind. When your emotions are on a high due to anger or anxiety you are likely to have errors of judgment. Calm yourself down first before you get behind the wheel.
Keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you. The distance apart to some extent depends on the speed at which you are going. Give yourself four to five seconds catching up distance between you. A general rule of thumb is making sure you can see the rear tires of the car ahead of yours when you stop.
When overtaking, make sure you check your rear view mirror and also check for blind spots. Do not overtake at a climbing lane especially if your vehicle is not fast enough. When another vehicle is passing you, avoid directing them.
A good driver will always ensure that the car is in good condition. Take it for regular check-ups and change the oil regularly. Fill up your tank before the gas is used up completely. Do not rev the engine in neutral. Lastly, remember that it is better to be a courteous driver.
The first thing that every driver needs to do is fasten the safety belt. By doing so you are preventing possible injury in case of extreme circumstances. If you have a passenger with you, ask them to fasten their safety belts as well. When with children, it can be difficult to concentrate since children need extra attention. Normal safety belts are not recommended; therefore make sure you fasten the child with the proper belt. Make sure that all the doors are locked.
Make use of mirrors, rear view and side mirrors so as to be aware of your surroundings. Adjust the driver side and passenger side mirrors before you start to drive. The side mirrors are in optimal position when you can see a portion of the door handle at the bottom end of side mirror. If you are using a vehicle you are not used to, take a moment to familiarize yourself.
Avoid over speeding; follow the speed limits that are set by the state. Look out for signs on the road that indicate the recommended limit. Your speed as a driver depends on a number of factor. One factor is the condition of the road. Reduce your speed if the road is icy or slippery to avoid an accident. Also, the tire condition also matters; make sure the tires are inflated and tread. The road density also matters as well as the visibility. It is dangerous to speed in foggy or dusty conditions.
Be attentive as you drive. Do not drink and drive since this will lower your alertness. You might not respond as quickly as possible in case of an emergency. Taking illegal drugs will also impair your judgment. They have varying strengths so it is impossible to anticipate their effects. Some of those drugs give a false sense of alertness causing drivers to take risks that are not thought through. Prescription medicine like cough syrups can cause drowsiness which leads to impairment. Avoid using cell phones while driving. This takes your attention from the road. Do not text or read maps while on the wheel. If you have to do this, pull over first.
It is advisable to drive only when in the right state of mind. When your emotions are on a high due to anger or anxiety you are likely to have errors of judgment. Calm yourself down first before you get behind the wheel.
Keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you. The distance apart to some extent depends on the speed at which you are going. Give yourself four to five seconds catching up distance between you. A general rule of thumb is making sure you can see the rear tires of the car ahead of yours when you stop.
When overtaking, make sure you check your rear view mirror and also check for blind spots. Do not overtake at a climbing lane especially if your vehicle is not fast enough. When another vehicle is passing you, avoid directing them.
A good driver will always ensure that the car is in good condition. Take it for regular check-ups and change the oil regularly. Fill up your tank before the gas is used up completely. Do not rev the engine in neutral. Lastly, remember that it is better to be a courteous driver.
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