We first heard about Peugeot Driveaway Holidays at a travel expo, ten years ago. Quite frankly, it sounded too good to be true: a brand new car, comprehensive insurance with no excess, unlimited kilometres all for a cost less than that of a hire car. We are very cautious and not very trusting, and when something sounds too good to be true it's usually because it is. So we spent a significant amount of time crawling through the the fine-print, looking for the catch. But the joke was one us, there really isn't one.
We have now used this service each year, for the past 10 years and we look forward to coming back again. The first year we started with a manual, petrol 307. It was a comfortable hatchback, ideal for two people. The following year we had the same vehicle, only automatic. Over the years we've also had a 308 Station Wagon and a 407 Sedan.
The last two years we have had a 3008, 2L, automatic, diesel crossover with GPS. I would advise any client to get a diesel; the fuel is cheaper and takes you further. Unless you always drive a manual, I would advise you choose an automatic. It's enough having to worry about staying on the right side of the road, let alone change gears.
In recent years, many models have been fitted with an English-speaking GPS, covering the whole of Europe. This makes driving so much easier, especially in those complicated Autobahn interchanges. If you are planning on driving on free-ways then a 2 litre engine is preferable and if you are getting that bit older, like us, the 3008 model is higher and easier to get in and out of.
Admittedly, the paperwork looks a bit daunting when you complete it for the first time, but believe me, there is no hidden agenda. The system works like a charm. We are met at the airport, taken to our vehicle, the representative explains all the 'buttons', provides enough fuel to get us to the next service station then away we go. When we return the car, we are driven to the airport to fly home again.
We have no hesitation in recommending "Peugeot Driveaway". Our only criticism is that the driver's manual is in French, but we easily overcame that by purchasing an English one. Another hint: in most European countries you require a an orange or yellow safety vest and a warning triangle on your vehicle. I think Peugeot now supply the triangles, and you can purchase the vests at any service station. The biggest danger of all? When you return from your trip, you'll want to buy a Peugeot.
Happy customers of Peugeot Driveaway Holidays,
Merryl and Walte, W.A.
For more unique holiday ideas, see our special interest section.
- Travel Associates
#
