#sometimes we specify if it's city or highway driving

[sga-owns-my-soul]

rodney measures everything in time and no one can figure out why

until they realize chuck does the same thing

[hadtochangemyurlquick]

it’s work in progress wednesday so here’s a little goodfoe one shot that i can’t decide if i like and is mostly just me exploring leah and shelby’s relationship. also there’s some religion in there that i’m sure i fucked up.

Shelby doesn’t remember the dream, but she wakes to Toni’s arm thrown over her, reaching for Shelby’s phone as she attempts to hit the snooze alarm.

She spends most of the morning feeling queasy, a little nauseous, as Toni spends most of the morning exchanging grunts with her and muddling through coffee. It’s half past nine when Toni is awake enough, presses her arms around Shelby, kisses her neck. Toni’s arms have always, instinctively, made Shelby relax, like her body knows it’s safe.

Her skin feels like its falling off in awful flakes and she can barely breathe when she pushes Toni away.

“Um—”

“Would you give me some space? Jesus Christ, I can’t have a minute to myself?”

“Uh—” Toni reaches out a hand and Shelby finds herself in a corner, rock and a hard place, burning up.

“Don’t touch me!”

Toni flinches, “I just—”

Shelby pushes past her, eight steps to the bathroom in this tiny damned apartment, and upchucks in the toilet.

“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”

She is only spitting up bile now, Toni is calling her name. The door is locked.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

She’s trapped, she’s trapped, she’s trapped. She made the wrong choice, everything is falling apart, her skin is flaking off.

"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”

Shelby leans against the wall, closes her eyes as she feels her stomach gracefully settle, now empty. The bitter taste along her mouth lingers, and she doesn’t realize she’s praying.

“For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever.” And ever. And ever. And ever.

She is trapped here, and it’s ruined.

The pounding at the door has stopped, Shelby gets to her feet.

Toni almost falls through the door when Shelby opens it, her eyes are wide and red rimmed.

“I’m going out,” Shelby tells her. “Don’t follow me.”

“Shelby wait—”

The apartment is so small Toni doesn’t have time to finish her sentence before Shelby makes a jailbreak, she’s wearing house shoes, and it’s freezing outside but what should she expect it’s Minnesota?

God, what in the world is she doing in a tiny ass town in rural Minnesota?

Her skin is baked, she’s so hot, it’s flaking off, joining that mushy gray slush on the ground that Toni told her will stick around through March.

“Hey girl hey! You’re on speakerphone with Dot in the car, because I am driving because that is all you fuckin do in LA,” Fatin answered on the first ring.

“My skin is flaking off,” Shelby says. And then, to specify, “I can’t breathe and I’m dying and it’s too hot and I think my fingers are turning blue.”

“Hey, breathe with me okay, it’s going to be—”

Shelby hangs up.

The entire world is falling apart, she’s trapped and she’s nothing, and she’s going to die and die alone for ever and ever and ever and ever and ever and

“Hey,” Leah picks up on the fifth ring.

“Leah,” Shelby sobs, the name a prayer, a lifeline. “It’s ruined, everything is ruined, I’m trapped and my skin is flaking off and I’m dying and I can’t breathe and—and—and—and—”

Someone sobbing interrupts her and she’s relieved to realize it’s not Leah.

“Are you around anything sharp?” Leah asks.

Shelby blinks, she looks around, “No.”

“What about a body of water?”

“No.”

“Any motor ways?”

“Maybe a five minute walk?”

“Okay, are you sitting?”

Shelby nods, realizes Leah can’t see that, “Yes.”

“You need to stand up,” Shelby stands. “Stand in the opposite direction of the road, and start walking.” Shelby starts walking. “Your skin isn’t falling off, you aren’t dying, you’re breathing, nothing is ruined, you aren’t trapped.”

“My skin isn’t falling off, I’m not dying, I’m breathing, nothing is ruined, I’m not trapped.”

“Stop running,” Leah tells her and Shelby hadn’t realized she had started. “Nothing is chasing you.”

“Nothing is chasing me.”

She doesn’t believe the words but she and Leah have played this game before, the only way to win is by playing the game again, some different day.

“Did I wake you up? The time difference—I always forget.”

“No,” Leah says. “I haven’t slept since I got the restraining order.”

Shelby nods. “I want that man in prison for you, Leah.”

“I know you do.” And every time someone says something like that to her it always sounds like Leah comes a little closer to believing the sentiment herself.

Shelby is still walking, she might walk until her feet hurt, or her bad ankle feels like it wants to fall off.

“Was it a nightmare?” Leah asks.

“You know I still pray,” Shelby says. “I prayed so often for so long it’s like—it’s instinct, it’s like my brain just goes there when I’m struggling like a reflex. Only sometimes I’ll be praying and repeating the words and I don’t even believe them. And I’m just sitting there in my prayer wondering where the hell I go from here. Maybe I do go to hell.”

Leah hums.

“I don’t think I’m okay, Leah,” Shelby confides. “I still felt safer than I ever have on that damn island.”

“I hate my therapist, I hate that it’s working, that I don’t obsess over things in the same way, that I can feel myself changing and I’m afraid of this new person. At least I knew who I was on the island.”

“That’s not who you are,” Shelby argues. “This is who you are. This person, who I’m talking to right now.”

Leah is quiet for a long time, she always is. She always plans her words a million years in advance, especially during these calls.

“Do you really feel trapped?”

Shelby wants to cry again, “No.”

“What do you feel?”

“Like I’m on the edge of a cliff and I don’t know which side is solid ground.”

“Was it a nightmare?” Leah asks again, because neither let the other get away with anything for very long.

“I think so.”

“You’re not gonna die if you fall off the cliff,” Leah tells her. Shelby swallows hard. “I’m telling the truth.”

“You promise?”

“Train wrecks unite,” Leah tells her. “Now call Toni.”

She hangs up, and Shelby opens her phone to a million missed calls from everyone. She blocks them all and calls Toni.

“Hey,” Her voice is breathless. “Where are you?”

Shelby looks around, “I don’t—” her voice breaks, she tries to muffle a sob, “Toni, I don’t know.”

“That’s okay, hey that’s okay. I’m coming. I’m coming.”

Toni keeps talking to her as Shelby hears her leave the apartment, start the pickup they bought from Martha’s mom for cheap, drive down that old highway with the potholes from the winter the city refuses to acknowledge. There’s some breaking of branches, before Toni is behind her. Toni comes up slow but Shelby falls into her, terrified.

“I’m sorry.”

She’s shaking in Toni’s arms and Toni just tightens up on her,

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done—

“Sometimes I feel like I’m the worst person on the planet,” Shelby whispers, “just for loving you. Sometimes I feel like I’m cheating God, just because I’m happy. Sometimes I feel like there is no God and I’ve been cheated, and whoever I am just crumbles into nothing. I don’t know if I am anyone anymore, I don’t know why you’re with me.”

—on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

“I feel like the whole world is spinning on one axis, and I’m spinning on the other,” Shelby finishes.

Toni finally pulls away, hands still on Shelby’s biceps, Shelby still shaking under them.

“I’m with you because I love you,” Toni says. “What else is there?”

And there’s nothing else, is there?

When it all was stripped away, their hygiene and the fluoride in their water supply, their history and their secrets and their family and their responsibilities to everything but basic survival—all that was left was love. Love for each other, and their lives back home, and for the dead, and the world, and a hundred other things they hadn’t loved since they were little. Like the way the sky looks just before sunset, or the way it smells after it rains, and chocolate chip cookies their mom made for them after they got home from school. Like old people struggling to carry their grocery bags, or the kids with cancer when those ads came on the TV to donate, or the homeless man that always smiled at them.

That was all that was left, that love. And the love for each other.

There is no intrinsic reason why Shelby should love Dot and Fatin, or Rachel or Leah. There is no reason why she should love Nora and Martha. There is no reason why she should love her parents, her siblings. There is no reason why she should love Becca Gilroy.

There is no reason why she should love Toni Shalifoe.

But there is a reason, isn’t there? She loves Toni because she loves her.

Maybe Leah was right, that falling off a cliff won’t kill her. That’s faith isn’t it? Trust, blindly, openly, love because you love.

“I can’t walk home,” Shelby says. “My ankle it—”

“I’ve got you,” Toni says.

She does.

[mcccleaningomaha-blog]

Best Sidewalk Snow Clearing Services and Cost in Omaha NE | MCC Cleaning Omaha

More Information: http://www.greencleaningomaha.com/sidewalk-snow-clearing-services.html

Sidewalk Snow Clearing snow removal services near Omaha NE: Looking for Sidewalk Snow Clearing snow removal services near Omaha NE? MCC Cleaning Omaha is the source for the crews who drive snow plows also operate sidewalk and bus stop cleanup equipment sidewalks are cleared street cleanup. It generally takes up to three days to complete a sidewalk operation. Cost? Free estimates! Send us a message or call us today. Best Sidewalk Snow Clearing Services around Omaha NE. We serve Omaha NE and other areas. Get a Free Quote Now!

 SIDEWALK SNOW CLEARING SERVICES OMAHA NE

OMAHA SIDEWALK SNOW CLEARING

 Sidewalk Snow Removal

 Private Property

Sidewalk Snow Clearing snow removal services near Omaha NE: Private property, residential or commercial property owners and occupants are required to clear the sidewalks abutting their property of snow or ice within 24 hours after the snow has stopped falling. This includes the corner crosswalk area for property owners with corner lots or those whose property abuts a midblock crosswalk.

 Fees/Fines

 Violators who are reported to DPW will be issued a notice to clear the walk and will be assessed a special charge of $50.  Property owners who fail to clear all sidewalk snow and ice, before the abatement contractor arrives, after the property has been cited will be assessed additional special charges of $75 for the first violation, and $100 for a second violation and any violations thereafter, plus the cost of snow and ice removal if cleared by the City (City Ordinance 116-8). The City is responsible for clearing approaches to alleys only; the City does not plow alleys.

 Appeals

To appeal a sidewalk snow removal violation submit the appeal application and $25 filing fee to the Administrative Review Appeals Board, 200 E Wells St, Rm 205 within 30 days of the date of the bill.

Sidewalk clearing for elderly and/or disabled persons

Residents who own single family homes who are physically unable to clear the sidewalk in front of their home may apply for assistance with clearing the walk after a snowstorm exceeding 4 inches. Click here to learn more about special needs services.  A $30 charge per event is assessed for this service.

 Public Sidewalks and Crosswalks

Sanitation will clear corner crosswalks when there is snow accumulation of 4 or more. The crews who drive snow plows also operate sidewalk and bus stop cleanup equipment; sidewalks are cleared following street cleanup. It generally takes up to three days to complete a sidewalk operation.

 Bus Stops

Depending on the conditions following a general plowing, the Street Maintenance Section of DPW Infrastructure Services Division will clear snow on specific bus stops. Operations usually take place during the nights following the completion of street plowing operations.

 There are roughly 4,200 bus landings that are cleared during these operations. The front door landing area is always cleared.  Rear door landings are cleared only at higher traffic areas. Bus stop shelters are county facilities and are not cleared during these operations.

  City Owned Buildings

 Each city department is responsible for maintaining clear sidewalks abutting their buildings and field offices in outlying areas. The entire City Hall complex is maintained by Department of Public Works staff.

 Pedestrian Walks

 Forestry Services clears a limited number of specified locations while other pedestrian walks are cleared by Sanitation Services staff.

 City Owned Parking Lots

 Parking Services manages the private contractors responsible for clearing the abutting sidewalks and lots of snow and ice.

 Tot Lots

Sidewalks around and through tot lots are managed by Forestry Services and are cleared by private contractors.

 Railroad Bridges

Sanitation Services clears sidewalks abutting railroad bridges in conjunction with a general plowing operation.

 City Maintained Bridges

The Infrastructure Services Division is responsible for a specified list of sidewalks on bridges. Certain bridge sidewalks are cleared by the Sanitation Services but only in conjunction with a plowing operation cleanup.

 Bridges/Overpasses over Freeways/Interstate Highways

 Sidewalk Snow Clearing snow removal services near Omaha NE:  Pedestrian walkways and streets with sidewalks abutting bridges are cleared by Sanitation Services, only when a plowing operation is called and there is sufficient snow accumulation to warrant a plowing.

City ordinance prohibits shoveling snow onto streets

 Property owners should deposit the snow from sidewalks and driveways onto their yards or the strip between the curb and sidewalk.

Here is a brief description of what you can expect and some helpful numbers to call if you require assistance.

 ●       High pedestrian volume sidewalks will be cleared when the snow has stopped and the accumulation has reached two centimeters (approximately one inch). High pedestrian volume sidewalks are sidewalks on arterial roads, transit routes, near school zones and around accessibility locations.

●       Low pedestrian volume sidewalks will be cleared when the snow has stopped and the accumulation has reached eight centimeters (approximately three inches).  Low pedestrian volume sidewalks are sidewalks on local roads.

●       Generally, it takes approximately 13 hours to clear high and low pedestrian volume sidewalks after a snowfall. However, depending on the severity of the storm, sidewalks may have to be cleared more than once.

●       This service can take up to 72 hours after the snow has stopped.

●       The service does not include the clearing of snow from driveways or private approaches (private sidewalks) leading to a residence.

●       If your property is a corner lot, the sidewalk on the flank will not necessarily be cleared at the same time as the sidewalk at the front. This work is sometimes performed by different equipment.

●       While every attempt is made to clear all the residences on the service within 72 hours, if your sidewalk has not been cleared after 72 hours after the end of a snowfall, please call 311 and staff will place your address on our missed list and crews will be scheduled to attend and clear the sidewalk.

 COST

 Sidewalk Snow Removal Prices

Removing snow from your home costs an average of $110 with a typical range of $48 and $173. Larger properties with longer drives, more sidewalks or requiring roof clearing can run upwards of $400 or more. Hiring someone to plow costs $30 to $50 per visit while sidewalk shoveling or snow blowing runs $25 to $75 per hour. Most companies also clear roofs for an additional $250 to $500.

 Snow Removal Service Costs

 Though most professionals charge seasonal or event prices from $50 to $450 or more, they almost always figure costs based on hourly rates. Pricing is figured by how long it will take one person to move a certain amount of snow in an hour plus equipment and overhead.

·        Snow Removal & Plowing Price List Shoveling - $25 to $75 per hour

·        Blowers & Throwers - $25 to $75 per hour

·        Plowing - $30 to $95 per event or visit

·        Roof Removal - $250 to $500

Different contractors might use different tactics to clear your sidewalk or walkway. What they choose to use - shovel, blower or plow - depends on the conditions, size and type of area to be cleared. Your professional will pick the equipment best suited to complete the job quickly and thoroughly.

 Snow Removal Pricing Calculator

 Professionals charge using multiple cost models. They don't charge per square foot but do almost all their pricing by figuring the amount one person can move in one hour plus overhead and equipment costs.

Pricing is done one of the following ways:

Per hour - $25 to $75. Usually used for manual removal with shovels or blowers/throwers.

Per season - $350 to $450. Typically has an upward limit of visits/clearings.

Per event - $30 to $75. A snowstorm is an event. This pricing method is typical in areas with either short periods or not much total annual accumulation.

Per push/visit - $30 - $50. Each time the area is cleared, even if it's multiple times per storm.

Per inch - $60 to $95. This is typical for up to 6 inches of snow. Add $30 for each additional 6 inches.

 Snow Plow Rates

 Plowing runs $30 to $95 per visit. You can also hire them on a seasonal basis for $350 to $450 with a maximum limit of visits per season.

 Snow Shoveling Prices

The average homeowner can expect to pay $25 to $75 per hour for shoveling services per crew member.

This is one area that homeowners can consider hiring less-experienced local providers. Though you may be tempted to hire the neighbor's kid, consider who ends up paying for the scratched car or torn lawn if something goes wrong. Always hire a service that provides guarantees and insured work.

 Snow Blowing Estimates

Snow blowing services tend to run about the same as shoveling services or $25 to $75 per hour. In some cases, the two are synonymous. The service has slightly more overhead with gas and equipment costs, but they make up for this with the volume of work they can accomplish.

 Salt Application Rates

Expect to pay $20 to $40 per application. Some areas require that sidewalks remain clear and free of ice for public use, especially if you're near public spaces like schools and parks. HOA's typically cover some or all the plowing as part of the HOA fees. Check with you homeowner's association and city government for what is and is not your responsibility.

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 Sidewalks

We must all work together to ensure residents can travel safely. The public is responsible for keeping sidewalks around their property free of snow and ice within 24 hours after a snowfall. Uncovered sidewalks can create issues for individuals with disabilities, older adults, parents with strollers, other mobility devices.

 How long do I have to clear the sidewalk before bylaw enforcement begins? How is it enforced?

You have 24 hours from when the snow stops falling. City bylaws require property owners or occupants to remove snow and ice from sidewalks. When staff receive a complaint about an uncovered sidewalk, they inspect the property and issue a notice to the resident. If the sidewalk is not cleared upon re-inspection, the resident will be invoiced for snow removal by the city.

 What can you do to get people to shovel their sidewalks?

Every year, the city conducts an outreach campaign to let people know about their responsibility to remove snow and ice from sidewalks (according to city bylaws). When a complaint is received, staff will inspect the property and issue a notice to the resident. If the sidewalk is not cleared upon re-inspection, city staff will remove the snow and invoice the resident.

 I am unable to clear my sidewalks. Who can help me?

There are agencies who provide snow removal to seniors or other individuals who are unable to clear their sidewalks. Fees may apply.

The Working Centre is offering assisted sidewalk and windrows clearing services for up to 50 properties. Apply online to be considered for the program.

Contact your local high school to see if there are students who need volunteer hours and can help you through the winter. The city has also created a Snow Angel program to recognize those who help their neighbors clear their sidewalks. Learn more about the program or nominate a Snow Angel who has cleared your sidewalk (nomination form currently expired as program is seasonal and will reopen in the winter).

 Why doesn't the city plow sidewalks?

Budget constraints do not provide sufficient resources to allow for this service. Also, according to a city report on winter sidewalk maintenance (2016), municipalities that implemented city-wide sidewalk snow-clearing identified that service levels are inconsistent, and sidewalks are maintained to snow-packed, not bare, conditions.

 Why do plows go so fast and throw snow on my sidewalk?

Sorry! There is no practical way to avoid pushing snow into driveway entrances during plowing operations. To avoid additional work, we suggest you delay clearing your driveway entrance until your street is cleared full width.

Plows must maintain a minimum speed to throw snow off to the side. Some sidewalks are very close to the curb and it is difficult to avoid getting snow on them.

 CALL FOR US:

 ●       Sidewalk Snow Clearing Near Omaha NE

●       Snow Machine For Sale

●       Commercial Snow Removal Equipment For Sale

●       Sidewalk Snow Vehicle

●       Snow Removal Vehicles

●       Sidewalk Snow Broom

●       Snow Removal Price Omaha NE

●       Who Is Responsible For Clearing Snow From Sidewalks

●       Snow Removal Pricing Calculator

●       Commercial Snow Removal Rates Per Square Foot

●       Bobcat Snow Removal Prices Omaha NE

●       Snow Removal Cost Report

●       Snow Removal Rates

●       Snow Plowing Cost Per Mile

●       How Much To Charge For Snow Plowing Driveways

●       Snow Removal Pricing Calculator

 BEST SIDEWALK SNOW CLEARING SERVICES IN OMAHA NE

MCC CLEANING OMAHA

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION. CONTACT US NOW!

[croixdememoire]

New Zealand RV Rentals New Zealand Rental Cars New Zealand RV Car Rentals Car Rentals

A unique flora and fauna awaits you when you rent a camper. In New Zealand, the cute bird kiwi with a pointed beak is a national symbol. On your camper trip along the coast, you will also discover penguins, whales and dolphins, which are in the sea. Leave Auckland on State Highway 1. From there you can continue your New Zealand vacation in the overwhelming south with the motorhome. With an honest & fair rating you help us and other readers. Thanks a lot! Wild camping is common in New Zealand. It is sometimes the cheapest form of camping in New Zealand. However, there is a requirement to have a self contained camper. This means that the camper must have a toilet on board. You can tell whether the camper is self contained by this badge. The 6-bed camper is the only model in New Zealand in which all passengers can sit in the front and in the direction of travel. We offer a large number of rental companies and vehicle models. Our database automatically calculates which rental company offers which price for the vehicle you want at the travel time you specify and which services are included in this price. The so-called campervans are very popular in New Zealand. The campsites are set up for these vehicles, a parking space with electricity connection costs from about NZ $ 15 per person (depending on the equipment and travel time).

How long is the North Island of New Zealand?

new zealand motorhome

Prices in New Zealand: the rules of thumb The North Island is generally more expensive than the South Island. Petrol is much cheaper in large cities than in the surrounding area.

there is a great tour ahead of you. I'll try to answer your questions as briefly and in detail as possible. If you didn't grow up in the country, it may very well be that you don't get tired of this green, hilly landscape so quickly. Certainly the nature here is beautiful, but not very varied.

Find suggestions for impressive camper tours in New Zealand here.

Your penultimate stop is in Cambridge, a town in the Waikato region.

Motorhome rental in Auckland If you want to travel in New Zealand by motorhome, you shouldn't take a long way on your arrival day.

From Picton the whole island stretches south and the highways are very inviting.

Auckland is also New Zealand's primary international hub. Travel around New Zealand in a motorhome, note that there is left-hand traffic. Accordingly, you sit on the right side as a driver in New Zealand vehicles. Nevertheless, "Right before Left" applies at intersections without Right of way sign . If you stay on the island for up to twelve months, you can drive with your German driving license - for longer stays a New Zealand driving license is required.

But there were also points that we were very disappointed with. These include the widely acclaimed Abel Tasman National Park, of which we had hoped for a lot more. Here you should definitely know that you hardly get anything to see when driving through. All beauties are either connected with excursions or long hikes. Then it makes sense to explore the North Island in all its facets. From Auckland to Wellington you will get to know many of New Zealand's most fascinating highlights.

Which vaccinations are necessary for New Zealand?

New Zealand is located in the southern hemisphere. All New Zealand islands are isolated in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.

For more information, see my article on renting a camper in New Zealand. The seasons in New Zealand are opposite to ours, which means that New Zealand's midsummer is in our winter months. In summer, however, it is winter in New Zealand and it can get really cold when traveling through New Zealand in a motorhome. Of course there is no bad weather, just unsuitable clothing - especially in New Zealand. But you still have to know that it can get very cold in autumn and especially winter in New Zealand.

Total availability: not available

Depending on how economically you live, you will also spend little money on groceries while renting a camper in New Zealand. If you cook yourself every day, you save a lot, of course, because going out to eat or buying fast food simply costs money. But there are also some costs for self-cooking, because things like salt, spices and basic foodstuffs also have to be bought. Personally, I am a fan of the Self Contained badges, because I have often been to camping sites where it was obviously made into the bushes - in addition to the legacies, there was often toilet paper as well.

[emilyzh2019-blog]

Tips For Renting A Car In Ireland

Ireland Driving Guide

Renting a car in Ireland and driving around the country yourself is a wonderful way to experience the Emerald Isle. But here’s some advice about the best way to do it.

When my family and I were planning our genealogy trip to Ireland to learn more about our ancestors, we were initially hesitant about renting a car to explore the country by ourselves.

Ireland has a bit of a reputation for narrow and scary winding roads!

Plus of course, they drive on the other side of the road, so there’s that. But the more we researched, the more we realized renting a car in Ireland would allow us to make our itinerary as imaginative as possible.

I love the freedom of road trips and planning my own travel itineraries. Ireland is such a diverse country that it made sense to rent a car so we could stop anywhere to discover small villages, castles, and go hiking in the mountains at our own pace.

Here are some important tips we learned from our experience renting a car in Ireland, to help you save money and stay safe while driving around the country!

How To Rent A Car In Ireland

Driving in Ireland for Tourists

Should You Rent A Car In Ireland?

Hey, if you love those big group bus tours, by all means, go book one. It’s a decent way to see Ireland if you don’t have a lot of time.

No planning, no driving, just sit back and let someone else do all the work!

But if you’re like me, you prefer the adventure of independent travel.

No set schedule or timetable — driving around Ireland with the freedom to stop anyplace cool you find along the way.

If that’s the kind of traveler you are, renting a car in Ireland is the way to go!

Just keep in mind that some of the backroads in Ireland can be very narrow, and often feel like a single lane (but they’re not). With some practice, you’ll gain confidence on them!

Another nice thing we enjoyed about having a car was the ability to store things in the trunk, stopping off in Irish towns with small daypacks rather than hauling luggage everywhere.

Learning to Drive on the Opposite Side!

Where To Rent Your Car In Ireland

The best site to book your car is Discover Car Hire. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Ireland.

We rented our car from Dublin Airport after spending a few days in the city. Our South West route brought us to Cork on the M8 before moving on to Killarney National Park and then Glengarriff, where my grandmother was born.

After tracking down our family history in this small coastal fishing village, we drove North on the Wild Atlantic Way up to Dingle and the famous Cliffs of Moher, then to Galway, and finally back to Dublin.

However there are many different road trip routes you can choose when driving in Ireland. Other major airports to consider picking up a car are Shannon in the Southwest and Cork in the Southeast.

Crazy Irish Winding Roads!

The Amazing Cliffs of Moher

Car Rental Insurance In Ireland

Some of the rumors about driving in Ireland are true, and the roads are VERY narrow in areas. Especially the backroads outside Ireland’s smaller towns. Don’t worry, I’ll share some tips for dealing with them below.

This is why I highly recommend getting full insurance coverage.

Typically, rental cars in Ireland come with a basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but this isn’t exactly insurance, and only covers the car for up to €1000-3000 EUROS worth of damage.

This is the amount they hold on your credit card until you return the car in one piece. CDW typically does not include tire, cracked windshield, or undercarriage damage either.

While you can often save money booking your car with a credit card that includes car rental insurance, you REALLY must read the fine print, because many people wrongly assume their card covers them in Ireland.

If you get in a wreck driving in Ireland, declined full coverage, and you suddenly learn your credit card doesn’t actually cover the damage — you’re screwed. I can’t tell you how many travel horror stories I’ve heard like this…

It’s why I usually pre-book full coverage online. It’s cheaper than at the counter — and then you won’t have to worry about accidents at all!

The Stunning Cobh Cathedral

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car In Ireland?

Renting a car in Ireland is going to cost you around $25-$40 USD a day, depending on the type of car you get. Our 4 door sedan was about $30 per day.

I recommend renting a car with an actual trunk (no hatchbacks) to hide your luggage from prying eyes. It helps to prevent break-ins if thieves can’t see your stuff.

Gas Prices

Gas (petrol) prices in Ireland might seem cheap to Americans, but remember that the rest of the world quotes gas in Liters, not Gallons (1 Gallon = 3.78 Liters). Currently, gas costs about $5.90 per gallon (€1.40 per liter) in Ireland. Diesel cars will often save you some money on gas.

Automatic vs Manual

Automatic cars are more expensive to rent than manual cars (but manuals are more common in Ireland), and you must specify what type you want when booking.

One-Way Rentals

There’s also an additional fee for one-way car rentals, which can vary by company. For example, if you want to drop off the car in a different city than you started from.

Admin Fee

If you opt to use your own credit card insurance, companies will charge you an “admin fee” of about €30 EURO.

Credit Card Fee

I was charged an extra €5 EURO just for using a credit card. Which is strange to me, but typical in Ireland.

Irish Taxes

Car rentals in Ireland have a very high tax rate of 13.6%. Ouch!

Age Requirements For Renting A Car

The minimum age for driving in Ireland is 18 years old, however most car rental companies enforce their own age limit of 21 years old to rent a car. They also charge an additional fee if you’re under 24 years old.

Driving Through the Town of Killarney

Irish Driving Laws Tourists Should Know

The most confusing part of driving in Ireland for most tourists is driving on the left side of the road — with the driver’s seat on the right side of the car.

If you’ve never been to a country that drives on the left, it’s wise to practice a bit in a small town before you head onto the highways of Ireland.

For example, just North of Dublin Airport is the town of Swords. Maybe spend an hour or two getting the hang of driving there before you enter Dublin or onto the main highways.

While challenging at first, especially if driving a manual, you’ll get the hang of it quickly and will be ready to explore Ireland by car in no time!

The speed limit on local roads is generally around 80 km/h while on national highways it’s up to 100 km/h.

International Driver’s License

No, you do not need an international driver’s license to drive in Ireland or rent a car there. Just bring your passport, credit card, and your driver’s license from your home country.

Ross Castle at Sunrise

Helpful Tips For Driving In Ireland

Watch out for sheep! In many smaller towns, local shepherds move their sheep on the roads. You can easily round a sharp bend and find yourself stuck behind a huge flock walking down the road.

Narrow backroads in Ireland don’t have standard break-down lanes as we have in America. There’s often no room for error or pulling over.

Sometimes your side-view mirror will be inches away from stone walls or hedges while passing other cars! It can make driving here nerve-wracking.

Remember to carry some cash for road tolls on Ireland’s major highways. Irish tolls can cost between $1-$3 for a passenger car.

In the countryside, some roads are truly single lane, but with traffic in both directions. In these situations, there are pull-outs so one of you can pull over for the other to pass.

USEFUL TIP: Buy a cheap “learner” sticker (L) sold at gas stations so locals don’t get pissed off at your incompetence on their roads!

The Colorful Town of Glengarriff, Ireland

Advice For Renting A Car In Ireland

You don’t need a rental car for Dublin itself. Parking can be a pain and Dublin is very walkable with excellent public transportation too.

If you’re starting your trip in Dublin, maybe book a rental car when you’re ready to leave the city, for exploring the rest of the country.

Don’t book a car without reading the company reviews. You’ll find plenty of bad reviews for every company (people love to complain online), but try to pick one with the LEAST bad reviews.

You may not always get the make/model/type of car you booked. If they give you a smaller car, or a manual when you asked for an automatic, be pushy and ask for an upgrade.

Inspect your car thoroughly and record video on your smartphone pointing out damage before you leave. This is a backup if they attempt to charge you for damage that was already there.

Pay attention to if your car takes regular petrol or diesel fuel, so you fill up with the correct type at gas stations.

Use Google Maps on your smartphone for directions. Bring your own hands-free adapter and buy an Irish SIM card at the airport.

Enjoy Your Ireland Road Trip!

Exploring the small villages, ancient castles, green mountains, and coastal cliffs of Ireland in a rental car was definitely the right choice for us.

Self-drive road trips get off the beaten track to see things most people miss! ★

Check Car Rental Prices & Availability In Ireland

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

Enjoy This Post? Pin It!

READ MORE FROM IRELAND

How To Visit The Cliffs Of Moher The Best Of Dublin Travel Guide My Irish Genealogy Road Trip Claiming Irish Citizenship By Descent

Any questions about driving or renting a car in Ireland? Are you planning a road trip there? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

[greywindys]

What happened before the mocap possible explanation no. 1: In which leaving the past behind involves two hours of driving and making a car explode. (mini fic blip under the cut. no ships but does contain 2Doc friendliness. word count ~1300)

They leave the house in the late afternoon and drive until the sun is low in the sky and the roads are empty, well beyond the edge of the city. It carries with it an unsettling familiarity to Murdoc. The flat, remote areas of the Rust Belt are reminiscent of the deserted highways of California, so much so that he’s been frequently reassuring himself in his head that, no, there won’t be a black cloud chasing them this time for the last hour or so.

Murdoc doesn’t know exactly when he plans to stop - he rarely ever does - but as they turn onto a side road, something about the abandoned gas station and its adjacent lot registers as having just the right amount of creepiness for him that he pulls the car over abruptly and parks in one of the few areas of concrete that hasn’t been overtaken by weeds.

The hasty park job jolts 2D, who had been sleeping in the passenger’s seat, awake.

He takes a moment to regain his whereabouts and assess his surrounding before asking, “So it’s gonna be this place then?”

“Well, I don’t see why not. It looked like as good a place as any,” Murdoc replies casually. He then tosses the car keys into the back seat and pops the trunk.

They both exit the car.

As 2D pulls the cans of lighter fluid out of the back, Murdoc leans against the hood of the car, pulling a pack of cigarettes out of his back pocket. After he lights one, he takes a long drag and watches as the smoke drifts up towards the stars as he exhales. There was going to be a lot more where that came from.

“Oh and, Murdoc?” 2D joins him at the hood, his hands now heavy with cans of flammable liquid. “I know we talked about this earlier but, um, are you sure you want to get rid of this car this way?”

“You know just as well as I do what we all agreed upon. For Gorillaz to continue we’re, or no, I’m getting rid of anything and everything that was associated with, uh, you know…last time. Trashing it. Making it go ‘kaboom’ et cetera, et cetera. ”

2D nods. “Yeah but…” He furrows his brow in thought. “What about Russel? He was just going on about how the environment is doomed and if he finds out-”

“He’ll just have to find a way to deal with it. We may have decided to get rid of everything but we never specified how,” Murdoc says, smirking. “Besides, I don’t know if I ever told but I was famous for my arsonry skills when I was eight. Even won an award for it. The legal system tried to say it was actually just a charge but what do they know.”

He stamps out his first cigarette with the heel of his boot and looks at 2D, who’s still hesitating, and rolls his eyes.

“And if makes you feel any better, if we get caught you can tell them it was my idea. But I’m already on my second cigarette now and the night isn’t getting any younger.”

2D remains pensive for another moment.

“Now that I think about it I always wanted to see a car explode,” he says as the beginnings of a smile pull at the corners of his mouth. “This one especially. Not all the time though - I really like the production we did on the song about it - but, some of the times, yeah. I wasn’t it’s biggest fan, but that was more your fault. It’ll just have to bear the brunt of that, I guess.”

“That’s the spirit!” Murdoc motions towards the open windows. “You want to do the honors then?”

As 2D douses the vehicle, Murdoc fiddles with the broken side view mirror that he never got fixed.

“It’ been a good run, eh?” He mutters to the car like a pet he’s about to put to sleep. “Outran a demon trying take my soul, made it out in one piece after a high-stakes car chase…”

Maybe he is a little bit sad. It’s not exactly a symbol of the best parts of himself, but it still means something to him, somehow. They have a new car now, and a new home, and he’s in the process of rebuilding old relationships on a new note. This is part of that process, for better or for worse.

“I think that oughta do it. You want to take a look Murdoc?” 2D looks proud of himself as he tosses the empty cans back into the trunk.

“But sometimes,” Murdoc continues to himself. He’s still focused on the car and the question barely registers. “You have to know when it’s time to stop running.”

“Stop running from what?” It’s 2D again.

Murdoc shakes his head. “Nothing…Actually, no.” He rethinks his answer quickly. “You’ve got it all wrong, 2D. It’s not ‘from what.’ We’re about to make this car stop running and that’s it. Stop running. And, euh I think it’s about time we got started.”

They begin with Murdoc tossing in a few cigarettes. When it doesn’t result in quite as dramatic an effect as Murdoc envisioned, 2D gathers dried grass and shrubbery from the surrounding area and piles it in the vehicle through the windows and sets it ablaze with Murdoc’s lighter. The flames grow steadily after that, and they soon have to back away to avoid being singed.

“We haven’t ended the day on a note like this in a long time, huh, Murdoc?” 2D remarks with a chuckle.

“Nah, we really haven’t now, have we?” Murdoc replies with a sad smile. He usually has a different reaction to small talk but would be a while before the flames die down which guarantees them a lengthy stay. Any distraction would be welcome.

“And the funny thing is, this isn’t even the strangest thing that’s happened to me today.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. I think I, uh, I think I accidentally stole a cat today,” 2D says, completely serious.

Murdoc raises an eyebrow. “How the hell did you do that?”

The question launches 2D into a story about a cat he had encountered on the way back home from a nearby convenient store that wouldn’t leave him alone after he fed it some crisps from his bag. The cat has been sitting with an elderly man at a bus stop before he met 2D, but now it had taken up residence in the singer’s room, refusing to leave and occasionally throwing up bile.

“Ahh, horrible! Is he alright now? Did you feed him a little pipette of milk?” Murdoc asks while wondering internally how 2D gets himself into these situation in the first place.

“No, no pipette,” 2D says plainly. “I gave him a…I gave him a kinder egg.”

Murdoc laughs as the fire continues to crackle in the distance. He’s never been so thankful for one of 2D’s classic stories of random life experiences. It almost makes him forget about his reflections from earlier.

They spend the next few hours swapping stories, ending with an indie horror trilogy that 2D had ordered on Amazon that arrived in the mail today.

“..And I was hoping to watch the first one later tonight,” he says, looking back towards the road.

Murdoc examines what’s left of the vehicle and stamps out the last of the flames. “Well, it doesn’t look like this is getting any crispier. What do you say we start heading back?”

2D is nodding along with him until he takes a final look back at the pile of ash, embers, and partially burned metal. Then he looks back at Murdoc, and then back at the pile. Slowly the realization dawns on Murdoc as well.

“Actually, um, Murdoc? How..um, how are we going to get back without, uh, without…”

“Without a car…” Murdoc finishes the sentence for him, blinking. Perhaps the cat story wasn’t going to be the strangest thing to happen to 2D today after all.

It was going to be a long night. 

[ronaldmrashid]

Mental Illness Deserves A Sick Day Just Like A Physical Illness

What’s great about America is that we’ve got a highly productive workforce that grinds like no other. We invent some of the greatest products and consistently build some of the largest companies in the world.

What’s sad about America is that we’re working ourselves to an early death. We pride ourselves on working double digit work hours a day. We pack our schedules to the brim and never give ourselves a break.

I’m guilty of adopting the “always be grinding” mentality because I landed a a dream job in New York City after college and then migrated to San Francisco, another hyper-competitive city. I didn’t want to take my luck for granted, so I tended to constantly push myself to the limit.

Even after I left full-time work in 2012 after 13 years of 60-80-hour work weeks, I still wanted to keep the intensity up with my writing on Financial Samurai. I was free to kick back and do whatever thanks to passive income, but I refused to live a life of leisure after the first six months of freedom.

Needless self-imposed pressures are why so many of us aren’t as happy as we should be. As soon as I let go of my perennial goals of outperforming the S&P and reaching ever higher website growth, I started to feel happier.

Accept Your Mental Illness

Nobody bats an eye if you tell them you’re planning on taking several days off because you’ve come down with the flu or some nasty bacteria. Falling physically ill is normal, especially if you’ve got little ones running around.

But nobody comes out and admits they have a mental illness that’s keeping them down. Yet I argue we all experience some sort of mental illness at some point in our lives.

I come down with a mental illness at least once a year.

Sometimes I get depressed about how unfair life is. My depression always focuses on why some people have so much opportunity, while other people have so little opportunity.

I go through a guilt phase where I often ask, why me? During this time period, I have no desire to hang out with anyone. I start thinking wild ideas like relocating to Virginia over Hawaii because I need a certain amount of suffering to feel more worthy.

While living in Malaysia, one of my friend’s died in a car accident at age 15. He lost control and rammed into a tree off the highway. Yes, he legally wasn’t allowed to drive, but we were irreverent in Kuala Lumpur. The passenger in the front seat didn’t survive either.

We were skateboard buddies from different schools who would hang out over the weekend. He was one of the coolest kids around and I wanted to go out with him to the club that night, but he ignored me because I was only 13.

The next day, I called Mark to ask whether he wanted to hang out. I will always remember his mother’s voice telling me he had passed away.

I have survivor’s guilt. I’ve learned that one of the best ways of overcoming this mental condition is to journal my thoughts and be useful to others. Over the years, no other activity has helps me more.

The reason why I started Financial Samurai in July 2009 was due to extreme anxiety and fear that I was going to lose everything I spent 10 years building up until the financial crisis.

I had nightmares of having to go back to work flipping burgers at McDonald’s for a tyrant manager. As a result, perhaps I am more sensitive to financial loss than the average person.

Through my posts and now through the Financial Samurai Forum, I’ve found a supportive community that acts as my supplemental mental health care system. Over the years, so many folks have reached out to share similar thoughts.

Take Sick Days For Your Mental Health

When I advised employees to take sick days instead of PTO in my post, Using Vacation Days Before A Severance Negotiation, I expected some readers to question my advice given our grinding society.

Here are a couple negative responses,

“Your suggestion of using sick days in lieu of vacation days is a gray area. Some companies have policies which theoretically forbid that. Or, if you use a certain amount of sick days in a row (say 3 or more) you have to get a doctors note. Personally, I wouldn’t want to be relaxing on the beach in Hawaii having to call my boss each day pretending to be sick.“

“Taking a sick day when I am not sick? Sorry, my moral code won’t let me go there. A day’s pay used to be worth a couple of grand, that is significant, but the price of my word, that is nonnegotiable, or priceless, if it is a Visa commercial. And if the company is being evil, well, that’s on them, I’m fine with fighting but I only fight fair regardless of how someone else fights. What anyone else does, not my problem, what I do, I have to live with that guy.“

To a manager or CEO, these responses are music to their ears. Their goal is to have employees be max loyal to the firm, while they enrich themselves with max reward.

What the commenters don’t recognize is the importance of taking sick days to improve one’s mental health. Their automatic assumption is that sick days are only for physical illnesses, which is a big blind spot.

I used to work at a firm that allowed a three-month sabbatical for every five years of work. Unfortunately, no manager ever took a sabbatical, which meant that nobody else took a sabbatical out of fear of getting a crap bonus or worse.

But after my 8th year at the firm, I decided to take a step towards living a more balanced life by taking all my vacation days. For the last three years at my old firm, I took six weeks off a year and loved it. I stopped giving a crap about what others thought.

Interestingly, while I took six weeks off a year, my production improved. Unfortunately, my firm didn’t properly compensate me for my production. But instead of complaining, I negotiated a severance.

Types Of Mental Illnesses

Perhaps you still have doubts about how common mental illness really is. Well here is an infographic that puts together many mental health issues. I’ve written most of them out since there are so many and the graph is so small.

Types Of Anxiety

Agora

PTSD

OCD

Acute Stress Disorder

Adjustment Disorder

Substance Induced

Separation Anxiety

Selective Mutism

Caffeine Induced

Androphobia (fear of men)

Panic

Social

Generalized

Types Of Schizophrenia

Schizoaffective

Paranoid

Brief Psychotic

Schizophrenium

Delusional

Shared Psychotic

Disorganized/ Hebephrenia

Cenesthopathic

Types Of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa

Binge Eating

Eating Disorder Not Other Specified (EDNOS)

Atypical

Purging

Night/Nocturnal

Orthorexia

Pica

Types Of Self Harm

Cutting

Carving

Using Objects (kicking or punching a wall)

Scratching

Picking

Ripping Skin off

Promiscuity

Burning

Hair Pulling

Rubbing objects on the skin

Misusing or Abusing Alcohol or drugs

Eating Disorders

Suicide Attempt

Law Breaking

Poisoning with toxic chemicals

Excessive exercise

Multiple piercings and/or tattoos

Overspending money

Types of ADD/ADHD

Inattentive

Hyperactive-Impulsive

Classic ADD

Overfocused ADD

Temporal Lobe ADD

Limbic ADD

Ring of Fire ADD

Anxious ADD

Types of Addiction

Alcoholism

Drugs

Nicotine

Food

Gambling

Internet

Sexual

Shopping

Work

Video Games

Plastic Surgery

OTC Medications

Arson

People Pleasing

Perfectionism

Sick Days Are Built Into Your Compensation Package

Not utilizing your sick days or PTO or not taking unemployment benefits is foolish because they are part of your compensation package. Your employer pays unemployment insurance, which directly affects your compensation.

Don’t be a proud ignoramus like me who only took maybe 15 sick days after 11 years of service, when I was allotted 77 sick days. Definitely don’t be one of those people who hoard their PTO and actually lose some of their days because they exceeded the carryover limit.

Take your sick days, take your vacation days, use short-term disability and long-term disability when needed.

You don’t feel bad about your employer subsidizing most of your healthcare costs. So why should you feel bad about taking sick days?

If your employer gets around the unpaid PTO issue by offering unlimited PTO, your mission is to take more PTO, especially if you are planning to do something else. Test the the word “unlimited.” So long as you’re hitting your performance metrics, you should be fine.

We’re in a tight labor market folks. The very least you can do is take advantage of all your benefits. And for goodness sake, let’s all accept that mental illness affects us all in some way.

Once you embrace the ubiquity of mental illness, you will develop more empathy for those whom you find uncomfortable.

Related: Using The Family Medical Leave Act To Negotiate A Severance

Readers, why doesn’t society do a better job at recognizing mental illnesses? Why do some people feel embarrassed or conflicted about taking sick days or PTO? Have people been conditioned this badly to not recognize their benefits?

The post Mental Illness Deserves A Sick Day Just Like A Physical Illness appeared first on Financial Samurai.

from https://www.financialsamurai.com/mental-illness-deserves-a-sick-day-just-like-a-physical-illness/

[1ff]

The Society of Multiples, Chapter 7

Second draft of my story about an alternate world where almost everybody is multiple. If you read it, you agree to leave at least two words in response. Constructive criticism welcome. Reblog unless you hate puppies.

Catch up: (Chapter 1) (Chapter 2) (Chapter 3) (Chapter 4) (Chapter 5) (Chapter 6)

Two chapters in one day? Why the hell not.

Let me know if you want to be tagged when I update so you don’t miss it ( @nevermindbinarity ) or search for the tag #thesocietyofmultiples

Chapter 7

Four long telephone calls to Shikakwa later, I had a guarantee of the reward and an taped television interview half a continent away. I didn’t care that much about the reward, because at the moment I wasn’t actually thinking that far ahead. The resources to do what I wanted- to either go back into hiding, or try to live in the open, would be useful. At that point in time though, everything centred around the interview itself.

I had negotiated a long list of specific demands, and in return proved my identity well enough to pass their scrutiny. I wanted to make sure that everything went off without a hitch.

I managed to find one remaining outfit and enough makeup of the right colours to resurrect my previous fake headmate. I gave myself a thorough examination in the mirror, and nodded approvingly. I’d managed to reconstruct Eron fairly decently from memory.

I was picked up that afternoon in a plain car driven by two people in completely average clothing, exactly as I’d specified. As I slipped into the back seat, the woman leaned over and shook my hand. “You must be Eron. I’m Macy, this is Cal. We’re so glad to have finally found you.”

I nodded quietly. “Thanks for picking me up.”

She smiled. “Is this to your satisfaction? I have to confess I’m very curious to know why all this secrecy. But I’m guessing we’ll all have to wait for your interview with Amy.”

I nodded. “Mum’s the word.”

“Well, that’s fine, you’re the star of this show. You call the shots.”

Cal started driving towards the highway to take us south. “We have hotel reservations just as you requested. Everything is all set up.” He had a very professional, deep, even voice. I got the impression that the t-shirt and jeans I’d insisted they wear were completely out of character for him.

“Good,” I nodded. “We won’t be showing up. We’ll be staying at all different hotels from what I listed, no reservations, all walk-ins.”

Cal chuckled. “I figured. I don’t know what you’ve got going on but this is going to be one hell of a trip.”

I watched out the window as we left River City behind- probably for the last time, for me. After this, there was no telling what would happen. With the group dissolved and deep in hiding, and Emma gone to whatever personal hell she’d chosen for herself, I didn’t have much left for me here.

“Tell me about Amy,” I asked, trying to sound like I was idly making conversation.

“She’s amazing,” Macy glowed. “Every bit as generous and kind and smart as she seems on TV.”

“And saavy,” Cal added. “Doesn’t take nonsense from anyone.”

“Her and Julian are a perfect power-couple for headmates,” Macy added. “Between the two of them they run a media empire nobody can touch.”

“Good.” Hopefully that untouchability can be passed on for a short period. Then something occurred to me. “Amy and Julian- is it just the two of them? A dual system?”

“That’s right. Weird, I know. In some cultures apparently it’s considered a kind of blessing.”

I wondered if that logic would make me doubly blessed, or half. In a life that sometimes feels like a curse, neither made sense to me.

I wondered if Amy and Julian would empathize with me on any level for being singular. There would be so many ways in which we would be similar, but then again, many ways in which we would be worlds apart.

I stared out the window as we went. It rarely really occurred to me how lonely being alone is, since I’d been so alone my entire life. Usually it confused me instead how they could handle never being alone. Even the way they used that word meant something different. They even had a special word for being not just physically but mentally alone: solity. They used it like a curse.

The drive was long. It would have been far quicker to fly, but without registration, I had no identification, and no passport. Crossing the border was tricky enough by road.

I watched my travelling companions over the next few days rotate headmates a few times, and new faces and identities introduced themselves to me in the usual custom.

Personally, I was done with the performance of it. I introduced myself as Eron each time, never bothering to fake a switch. Other than Eron’s particular shades, I hadn’t really packed any makeup or clothing to pull it off anyways. If they noticed, they never said anything.

I made requests as we went, some of them strange but serving an important purpose, but some of them just random. I insisted that each hotel we stopped at had a swimming pool, which was mainly so that I could sneak down there at night and just float on my back, experiencing the weightlessness and peace with my eyes shut. Usually I would get the swimming pool to myself; it was odd that even now, being one of the most alone people on the planet, I was craving even more solitude.

We took detours. Some of them had no real purpose, but some of them were to avoid larger cities and places where I’d heard of particularly strong anti-singlet sentiment.

At the border, of course, we were detained for four solid hours. The car was stripped off all our clothes and belongings, tossed out on the dusty parking lot. I sat patiently, explaining over and over and over that I not only didn’t have a passport, but no ID whatsoever. Technically, nobody was really required to have ID, but most people carried around a wallet or three swollen with cards that bore several faces and biographies along with the MRI proof to show that each was legitimate and registered.

And so I sat, expressionless, bored, ready for all of it, while people in uniforms interrogated me with the same questions over and over again. My only real plan was to just wait it all out; technically, by law, they couldn’t stop me from crossing. In the back of my head though, I remembered what Nora had said about the difference between what was legal, and what happened in real life.

It didn’t last that long though. I watched through a cracked door as Macy made furious call after call, and soon the entire office seemed to be saturated with ringing phones. People from Amy’s formidable forces of lawyers and interns and assistants were threatening, admonishing, and even diplomatically convincing everyone they could get a hold of that it was in their best interest to send us on our way. Finally they just let us go, exasperated.

As we drove south, I looked back at the border station in awe.

“When Amy’s determined to get something done, it gets done,” Cal said simply.

Another late night, another float in the pool. There was a couple in the hot tub, but they were keeping to themselves, and as my ears bobbed up and down across the waterline I heard only brief snippets of their conversation.

I felt an ache, though. Knowing that Emma had not only left me, but she had handed herself over willingly to suffering under whatever brutal techniques they were using to try and split up her mind and make her ‘normal.’ Unless I tried really hard to block them out, sometimes I would get glimpses in my imagination of her tied down to a bed with a block of wood in her mouth, her eyes rolling back and her whole body seizing as they shocked her with electricity...

I stopped myself again, then took a few deep breaths and let it all wash over me. I gave in to the anguish and anger and despair for a few moments, let it wash over me, and then pulled myself back from the brink.

My tears washed away into the water of the pool, and the chlorine disguised my bloodshot eyes.

As I rinsed off and changed into my dry clothes, I noticed that the couple was also leaving the hot tub. They seemed innocent enough- both handsome, tall men, one with dark hair a little longer than typical, the other a short-buzzed ginger. They laughed and made small talk about nothing really- something about how their trip was going, how the restaurant was last night.

But something didn’t seem right, intuitively. They seemed to be rushing a bit to catch up with me. I noticed the dark-haired one glance over at me a few times. Did he recognize me, or was he checking me out, or what? I’d worn only minimal waterproof makeup.

Or maybe- and I wondered if I was just being paranoid here, but- what if he was looking for me? What if Emma had actually sold me out, either under the belief that she knew what’s better for me, or under duress?

I moved calmly, trying to act normal, and beelined for the elevator. They were right behind me- they caught the door just as it was closing. I smiled uncomfortably and moved aside for them. They didn’t even seem to glance at the panel, just let the elevator doors close and continue their inane and practiced-sounding conversation.

At my floor they got off first, and walked ahead of me- but not too far ahead of me. I slowed down, they slowed down. They were pacing themselves to keep with the footsteps they could hear behind them.

I walked right past my room, gave no indication. Instead I went almost to the end of the hallway, then turned to a random door and pretended to be having trouble with my key card. I watched out of the corner of my eye as they turned to look, then kept walking to the end of the hall to inexplicably enter the stairwell as though suddenly realizing they’d gotten off at the wrong floor.

I backtracked carefully once I knew they were gone, and knocked on Cal and Macy’s door.

Macy answered the door in a t-shirt and jogging pants, obviously getting ready for bed. “Eron? Everything okay?”

“No,” I said quietly and urgently. “Pack up. Right away. Meet me in the parking lot in five minutes.”

She looked at me, hesitated only a moment, then turned around to get Cal. “See you in five,” she said over her shoulder.

In less than five minutes, Cal and Macy rushed out, suitcases in arms, a confused front desk clerk behind them. We tossed our luggage haphazardly into the car and piled in. Macy hit the gas in such a hurry that the tires squealed. I flinched; we were being too obvious, but it was a toss-up right now whether being sneaky or being fast was a better approach.

It was dark now, and it was easy to catch the headlights following us, but too hard to see the faces of the people in the car. I watched anxiously as they caught up to us, then put distance between us.

“I think we’re being followed,” I warned Macy anxiously.

Cal nodded in the passenger seat. He was fiddling with something; I heard metal sliding against meal. I craned my neck to see him loading a revolver.

My jaw dropped. This was only the second gun I’d ever seen in my life. How on earth had he gotten hold of one? Why did he have it? Was I being protected to the point that Amy’s people had gone to the lengths of buying and registering a gun? Where had he been stowing it this entire time?

The weight of the situation hit me suddenly. I’d asked for fake hotel reservations and circuitous detours in part because I was worried that Emma had turned me in, and in part to indicate that if Amy was serious she’d have to go to a lot of trouble to get me into her studio. I wasn’t sure when we set out how much danger I was in, and felt like I was overdoing the paranoia. Now all of a sudden all of that paranoia was collapsing in on itself. We were actually being followed by somebody, and we didn’t know why. Suddenly I felt like I’d been playing a game to satisfy my ego, and now things were turning serious.

Macy turned down a busy street, intentionally going off-track from the route to the highway. The car turned to follow. She made a sudden U-turn, from the wrong lane, without signalling. I watched as the following car kept going, but made a quick U-turn at the next lights and sped up to catch up with us again.

“Definitely being followed,” Cal mumbled. “We need to loose them.”

Macy nodded grimly. She looked out ahead of us and turned on the car GPS.

“I’m going to try another maneuver. Hold on tight.” She moved into the left-turn lane as we pulled up to another set of lights.

We waited at the red light, signal light blinking, as the intersection filled up with vehicles. The car that was following us pulled up slowly behind us, trying to keep their distance without being too obvious. In the light from the intersection though, I could just make out the two faces of the men who’d been following me earlier. It was definitely them. I ducked down to avoid being seen.

“It’s the men from the pool?” Cal asked, adjusting the mirror in his visor to get a look.

“Definitely.”

“Do you recognize them?”

I shook my head. “I’ve never seen them before tonight.”

The light turned green, and Macy hit the gas before the people in the cars across from us could react. She slipped through the gap just before it was closed up by the people going straight through the intersection. I heard tires screech behind us, a horn wailing. I looked out to see our followers stuck at the intersection, having tried to slip in behind us but only ending up getting snarled in traffic.

Cal smiled. “Macy, that was good.”

She nodded, smirking just a little. “We’re not out of the woods yet. But I’ve got us a route to a different interstate leading east out of the city. That work for you, Eron?”

I nodded. “Any way you can get us out of here works for me.”

We took a few more unexpected turns- some of them didn’t really seem to lead anywhere, but Macy was obviously winding her way through a plan based on the GPS device that eventually led us to the interstate. I was confident in her plan; for anyone who didn’t know this city, the path would not have made sense and they wouldn’t have known which route we left by.

Cal breathed a sigh of relief, stowed his gun. “I haven’t seen them since that left-hand turn you took. I think we shook them.”

Macy nodded, smiling. She made a deep exhale. “That was pretty fun. I’m not gonna lie.”

Cal turned to look at me. “You alright?”

I nodded. “Thank you. I can’t believe you did all that. And got away with it.”

“That’s why Amy sent us,” Macy said with a wink.

Cal returned to his calm, serious, professional mode. “Listen, it’s absolutely none of our business- we can’t really ask you about what’s going on. I know that. I’ll admit I’m curious, but you don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to, and you’re probably wise to say as little as possible. But things are escalating now. If you can tell me anything- anything you’re comfortable with- well, it would potentially be useful to know who’s following us and why.”

I nodded slowly. “To be honest, I’m not entirely sure. I was afraid that someone was looking for me, but I didn’t expect them to be this determined. I’m amazed they managed to catch up with us this far down the road.”

“Do you know whether they intend to catch you, or harm you?”

“Both,” I said carefully. “But I’m pretty sure they want me alive.”

Cal nodded. “I think… this is going to be a very interesting episode of Amy’s show.”

“Julian’s going to love what it’ll do for the ratings,” Macy added with a smirk.

I leaned back in my seat, checked my watch. It was already past 1 AM; odds were we wouldn’t stop for a hotel for a few hours. I tried to make myself comfortable on the back seat, but didn’t really expect to get any sleep after all that happened.

The adrenaline wore off hard, though. Before I knew it, I was dozing off.

I resurfaced on the edge of sleep a little later though, when I heard voices.

“You’ve got to admit it’s strange- we’ve been with him almost 24 hours a day, we haven’t seen-”

“Sssh. Careful, Macy.”

“Don’t worry about it- he’s passed out pretty hard back there.”

I felt my consciousness drift up and down across the threshold of waking; I wasn’t sure at first if the conversation I was overhearing was a dream or something happening around me.

“Look, I’m just saying- it can’t be him, on front all the time. We haven’t seen him switch, at all. You ever see someone front that long?”

“Yeah. College. Exam times. It happens.”

“You’ve got to admit, it’s strange. There’s something about him that’s not normal.”

“Yeah. Yeah, I know. I know we’re not supposed to speculate, but-”

“-but you’re wondering the same thing I’m wondering.”

“About who he is. What he is-”

“-and who’s following him-”

“-and whether he’s safe.”

I struggled to hear more, but felt myself fading away again.

I woke as the car pulled into the parking lot. The sun was out; my watch told me it was eleven, and I had to do a double-take, momentarily confused between AM and PM. I had slept, but not well. Macy and Cal looked exhausted and harried; they’d been ready to drift off to sleep hours ago, when we’d left in a hurry.

Macy and Cal slept, and I promised not to leave the hotel grounds without one of them. I wanted to go down to the pool to float and process everything, but in the middle of the day it would be full of people, and I felt nervous now being alone.

The next two days, we pushed even harder to get there faster. The deviation east, and our various detours, had cost us time; now, we were trying to get to Jernigan as fast as possible. If we’d been filming at the head office in Shikakwa, we’d have made it by now, but Amy’s show was filming furthur down south and she’d insisted we meet her there. Macy and Cal drove in shifts; I volunteered, but they insisted I keep my head down and stay safe.

As we drove south, I lost a layers of clothe. River City had been heading into winter when we left; Jernigan was practically tropical. I was not used to weather this warm or humid, especially this time of year.

Each state border we crossed brought a new sense of relief; further from the land I left behind, and further from whoever was following me. It still boggled my mind that someone would be so offended by my state of solity that they would be following me this far to try and retrieve me and take me home for their forced therapy. Was being alone in my head so dangerous to the world that I had to be tracked across federal borders by spies? I kept wondering what was underneath it all; obviously this was not all just ‘for my own good’ in some self-justifying therapeutic sense. There had to be some kind of agenda underneath it all, but it was difficult to figure out what.

I knew they saw us as dangerous, heartless, cold, cruel. They accused us of murder, pedophelia, abuse, manipulation. But even if they knew I was singlet, I’d never done anything wrong- they couldn’t prove anything, they had no evidence, they surely had no warrant- was being singlet enough on it’s own to justify following me so far just to take me home and subject me to their treatments?

There had to be more to it.

[marymperezga]

Things You Should Know Before Renting A Car & Driving In Ireland

Tips For Renting A Car In Ireland

Ireland Driving Guide

Renting a car in Ireland and driving around the country yourself is a wonderful way to experience the Emerald Isle. But here’s some advice about the best way to do it.

When my family and I were planning our genealogy trip to Ireland to learn more about our ancestors, we were initially hesitant about renting a car to explore the country by ourselves.

Ireland has a bit of a reputation for narrow and scary winding roads!

Plus of course, they drive on the other side of the road, so there’s that. But the more we researched, the more we realized renting a car in Ireland would allow us to make our itinerary as imaginative as possible.

I love the freedom of road trips and planning my own travel itineraries. Ireland is such a diverse country that it made sense to rent a car so we could stop anywhere to discover small villages, castles, and ancient ruins at our own pace.

Here are some important tips we learned from our experience renting a car in Ireland, to help you save money and stay safe while driving around the country!

How To Rent A Car In Ireland

Driving in Ireland for Tourists

Should You Rent A Car In Ireland?

Hey, if you love those big group bus tours, by all means, go book one. It’s a decent way to see Ireland if you don’t have a lot of time.

No planning, no driving, just sit back and let someone else do all the work!

But if you’re like me, you prefer the adventure of independent travel.

No set schedule or timetable — driving around Ireland with the freedom to stop anyplace cool you find along the way.

If that’s the kind of traveler you are, renting a car in Ireland is the way to go!

Just keep in mind that some of the backroads in Ireland can be very narrow, and often feel like a single lane (but they’re not). With some practice, you’ll gain confidence on them!

Another nice thing we enjoyed about having a car was the ability to store things in the trunk, stopping off in Irish towns with small daypacks rather than hauling luggage everywhere.

Learning to Drive on the Opposite Side!

Where To Rent Your Car In Ireland

The best site to book your car is Discover Car Hire. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Ireland.

We rented our car from Dublin Airport after spending a few days in the city. Our South West route brought us to Cork on the M8 before moving on to Killarney National Park and then Glengarriff, where my grandmother was born.

After tracking down our family history in this small coastal fishing village, we drove North on the Wild Atlantic Way up to Dingle and the famous Cliffs of Moher, then to Galway, and finally back to Dublin.

However there are many different road trip routes you can choose when driving in Ireland. Other major airports to consider picking up a car are Shannon in the Southwest and Cork in the Southeast.

Crazy Irish Winding Roads!

The Amazing Cliffs of Moher

Car Rental Insurance In Ireland

Some of the rumors about driving in Ireland are true, and the roads are VERY narrow in areas. Especially the backroads outside Ireland’s smaller towns. Don’t worry, I’ll share some tips for dealing with them below.

This is why I highly recommend getting full insurance coverage.

Typically, rental cars in Ireland come with a basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but this isn’t exactly insurance, and only covers the car for up to €1000-3000 EUROS worth of damage.

This is the amount they hold on your credit card until you return the car in one piece. CDW typically does not include tire, cracked windshield, or undercarriage damage either.

While you can often save money booking your car with a credit card that includes car rental insurance, you REALLY must read the fine print, because many people wrongly assume their card covers them in Ireland.

If you get in a wreck driving in Ireland, declined full coverage, and you suddenly learn your credit card doesn’t actually cover the damage — you’re screwed. I can’t tell you how many travel horror stories I’ve heard like this…

It’s why I usually pre-book full coverage online. It’s cheaper than at the counter — and then you won’t have to worry about accidents at all!

The Stunning Cobh Cathedral

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car In Ireland?

Renting a car in Ireland is going to cost you around $25-$40 USD a day, depending on the type of car you get. Our 4 door sedan was about $30 per day.

I recommend renting a car with an actual trunk (no hatchbacks) to hide your luggage from prying eyes. It helps to prevent break-ins if thieves can’t see your stuff.

Gas Prices

Gas (petrol) prices in Ireland might seem cheap to Americans, but remember that the rest of the world quotes gas in Liters, not Gallons (1 Gallon = 3.78 Liters). Currently, gas costs about $5.90 per gallon (€1.40 per liter) in Ireland. Diesel cars will often save you some money on gas.

Automatic vs Manual

Automatic cars are more expensive to rent than manual cars (but manuals are more common in Ireland), and you must specify what type you want when booking.

One-Way Rentals

There’s also an additional fee for one-way car rentals, which can vary by company. For example, if you want to drop off the car in a different city than you started from.

Admin Fee

If you opt to use your own credit card insurance, companies will charge you an “admin fee” of about €30 EURO.

Credit Card Fee

I was charged an extra €5 EURO just for using a credit card. Which is strange to me, but typical in Ireland.

Irish Taxes

Car rentals in Ireland have a very high tax rate of 13.6%. Ouch!

Age Requirements For Renting A Car

The minimum age for driving in Ireland is 18 years old, however most car rental companies enforce their own age limit of 21 years old to rent a car. They also charge an additional fee if you’re under 24 years old.

Driving Through the Town of Killarney

Irish Driving Laws Tourists Should Know

The most confusing part of driving in Ireland for most tourists is driving on the left side of the road — with the driver’s seat on the right side of the car.

If you’ve never been to a country that drives on the left, it’s wise to practice a bit in a small town before you head onto the highways of Ireland.

For example, just North of Dublin Airport is the town of Swords. Maybe spend an hour or two getting the hang of driving there before you enter Dublin or onto the main highways.

While challenging at first, especially if driving a manual, you’ll get the hang of it quickly and will be ready to explore Ireland by car in no time!

The speed limit on local roads is generally around 80 km/h while on national highways it’s up to 100 km/h.

International Driver’s License

No, you do not need an international driver’s license to drive in Ireland or rent a car there. Just bring your passport, credit card, and your driver’s license from your home country.

Ross Castle at Sunrise

Helpful Tips For Driving In Ireland

Watch out for sheep! In many smaller towns, local shepherds move their sheep on the roads. You can easily round a sharp bend and find yourself stuck behind a huge flock walking down the road.

Narrow backroads in Ireland don’t have standard break-down lanes as we have in America. There’s often no room for error or pulling over.

Sometimes your side-view mirror will be inches away from stone walls or hedges while passing other cars! It can make driving here nerve-wracking.

Remember to carry some cash for road tolls on Ireland’s major highways. Irish tolls can cost between $1-$3 for a passenger car.

In the countryside, some roads are truly single lane, but with traffic in both directions. In these situations, there are pull-outs so one of you can pull over for the other to pass.

USEFUL TIP: Buy a cheap “learner” sticker (L) sold at gas stations so locals don’t get pissed off at your incompetence on their roads!

The Colorful Town of Glengarriff, Ireland

Advice For Renting A Car In Ireland

You don’t need a rental car for Dublin itself. Parking can be a pain and Dublin is very walkable with excellent public transportation too.

If you’re starting your trip in Dublin, maybe book a rental car when you’re ready to leave the city, for exploring the rest of the country.

Don’t book a car without reading the company reviews. You’ll find plenty of bad reviews for every company (people love to complain online), but try to pick one with the LEAST bad reviews.

You may not always get the make/model/type of car you booked. If they give you a smaller car, or a manual when you asked for an automatic, be pushy and ask for an upgrade.

Inspect your car thoroughly and record video on your smartphone pointing out damage before you leave. This is a backup if they attempt to charge you for damage that was already there.

Pay attention to if your car takes regular petrol or diesel fuel, so you fill up with the correct type at gas stations.

Use Google Maps on your smartphone for directions. Bring your own hands-free adapter and buy an Irish SIM card at the airport.

Enjoy Your Ireland Road Trip!

Exploring the small villages, ancient castles, green mountains, and coastal cliffs of Ireland in a rental car was definitely the right choice for us.

Self-drive road trips get off the beaten track to see things most people miss! ★

➜ Check Car Rental Prices & Availability In Ireland

Travel Planning Resources For Ireland

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find a deal.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

Enjoy This Post? Pin It!

READ MORE FROM IRELAND

How To Visit The Cliffs Of Moher The Best Of Dublin Travel Guide My Irish Genealogy Road Trip Claiming Irish Citizenship By Decent

Any questions about driving or renting a car in Ireland? Are you planning a road trip there? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://expertvagabond.com/renting-car-in-ireland/

[kevingbakeruk]

Things You Should Know Before Renting A Car & Driving In Ireland

Tips For Renting A Car In Ireland

Ireland Driving Guide

Renting a car in Ireland and driving around the country yourself is a wonderful way to experience the Emerald Isle. But here’s some advice about the best way to do it.

When my family and I were planning our genealogy trip to Ireland to learn more about our ancestors, we were initially hesitant about renting a car to explore the country by ourselves.

Ireland has a bit of a reputation for narrow and scary winding roads!

Plus of course, they drive on the other side of the road, so there’s that. But the more we researched, the more we realized renting a car in Ireland would allow us to make our itinerary as imaginative as possible.

I love the freedom of road trips and planning my own travel itineraries. Ireland is such a diverse country that it made sense to rent a car so we could stop anywhere to discover small villages, castles, and ancient ruins at our own pace.

Here are some important tips we learned from our experience renting a car in Ireland, to help you save money and stay safe while driving around the country!

How To Rent A Car In Ireland

Driving in Ireland for Tourists

Should You Rent A Car In Ireland?

Hey, if you love those big group bus tours, by all means, go book one. It’s a decent way to see Ireland if you don’t have a lot of time.

No planning, no driving, just sit back and let someone else do all the work!

But if you’re like me, you prefer the adventure of independent travel.

No set schedule or timetable — driving around Ireland with the freedom to stop anyplace cool you find along the way.

If that’s the kind of traveler you are, renting a car in Ireland is the way to go!

Just keep in mind that some of the backroads in Ireland can be very narrow, and often feel like a single lane (but they’re not). With some practice, you’ll gain confidence on them!

Another nice thing we enjoyed about having a car was the ability to store things in the trunk, stopping off in Irish towns with small daypacks rather than hauling luggage everywhere.

Learning to Drive on the Opposite Side!

Where To Rent Your Car In Ireland

The best site to book your car is Discover Car Hire. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Ireland.

We rented our car from Dublin Airport after spending a few days in the city. Our South West route brought us to Cork on the M8 before moving on to Killarney National Park and then Glengarriff, where my grandmother was born.

After tracking down our family history in this small coastal fishing village, we drove North on the Wild Atlantic Way up to Dingle and the famous Cliffs of Moher, then to Galway, and finally back to Dublin.

However there are many different road trip routes you can choose when driving in Ireland. Other major airports to consider picking up a car are Shannon in the Southwest and Cork in the Southeast.

Crazy Irish Winding Roads!

The Amazing Cliffs of Moher

Car Rental Insurance In Ireland

Some of the rumors about driving in Ireland are true, and the roads are VERY narrow in areas. Especially the backroads outside Ireland’s smaller towns. Don’t worry, I’ll share some tips for dealing with them below.

This is why I highly recommend getting full insurance coverage.

Typically, rental cars in Ireland come with a basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but this isn’t exactly insurance, and only covers the car for up to €1000-3000 EUROS worth of damage.

This is the amount they hold on your credit card until you return the car in one piece. CDW typically does not include tire, cracked windshield, or undercarriage damage either.

While you can often save money booking your car with a credit card that includes car rental insurance, you REALLY must read the fine print, because many people wrongly assume their card covers them in Ireland.

If you get in a wreck driving in Ireland, declined full coverage, and you suddenly learn your credit card doesn’t actually cover the damage — you’re screwed. I can’t tell you how many travel horror stories I’ve heard like this…

It’s why I usually pre-book full coverage online. It’s cheaper than at the counter — and then you won’t have to worry about accidents at all!

The Stunning Cobh Cathedral

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car In Ireland?

Renting a car in Ireland is going to cost you around $25-$40 USD a day, depending on the type of car you get. Our 4 door sedan was about $30 per day.

I recommend renting a car with an actual trunk (no hatchbacks) to hide your luggage from prying eyes. It helps to prevent break-ins if thieves can’t see your stuff.

Gas Prices

Gas (petrol) prices in Ireland might seem cheap to Americans, but remember that the rest of the world quotes gas in Liters, not Gallons (1 Gallon = 3.78 Liters). Currently, gas costs about $5.90 per gallon (€1.40 per liter) in Ireland. Diesel cars will often save you some money on gas.

Automatic vs Manual

Automatic cars are more expensive to rent than manual cars (but manuals are more common in Ireland), and you must specify what type you want when booking.

One-Way Rentals

There’s also an additional fee for one-way car rentals, which can vary by company. For example, if you want to drop off the car in a different city than you started from.

Admin Fee

If you opt to use your own credit card insurance, companies will charge you an “admin fee” of about €30 EURO.

Credit Card Fee

I was charged an extra €5 EURO just for using a credit card. Which is strange to me, but typical in Ireland.

Irish Taxes

Car rentals in Ireland have a very high tax rate of 13.6%. Ouch!

Age Requirements For Renting A Car

The minimum age for driving in Ireland is 18 years old, however most car rental companies enforce their own age limit of 21 years old to rent a car. They also charge an additional fee if you’re under 24 years old.

Driving Through the Town of Killarney

Irish Driving Laws Tourists Should Know

The most confusing part of driving in Ireland for most tourists is driving on the left side of the road — with the driver’s seat on the right side of the car.

If you’ve never been to a country that drives on the left, it’s wise to practice a bit in a small town before you head onto the highways of Ireland.

For example, just North of Dublin Airport is the town of Swords. Maybe spend an hour or two getting the hang of driving there before you enter Dublin or onto the main highways.

While challenging at first, especially if driving a manual, you’ll get the hang of it quickly and will be ready to explore Ireland by car in no time!

The speed limit on local roads is generally around 80 km/h while on national highways it’s up to 100 km/h.

International Driver’s License

No, you do not need an international driver’s license to drive in Ireland or rent a car there. Just bring your passport, credit card, and your driver’s license from your home country.

Ross Castle at Sunrise

Helpful Tips For Driving In Ireland

Watch out for sheep! In many smaller towns, local shepherds move their sheep on the roads. You can easily round a sharp bend and find yourself stuck behind a huge flock walking down the road.

Narrow backroads in Ireland don’t have standard break-down lanes as we have in America. There’s often no room for error or pulling over.

Sometimes your side-view mirror will be inches away from stone walls or hedges while passing other cars! It can make driving here nerve-wracking.

Remember to carry some cash for road tolls on Ireland’s major highways. Irish tolls can cost between $1-$3 for a passenger car.

In the countryside, some roads are truly single lane, but with traffic in both directions. In these situations, there are pull-outs so one of you can pull over for the other to pass.

USEFUL TIP: Buy a cheap “learner” sticker (L) sold at gas stations so locals don’t get pissed off at your incompetence on their roads!

The Colorful Town of Glengarriff, Ireland

Advice For Renting A Car In Ireland

You don’t need a rental car for Dublin itself. Parking can be a pain and Dublin is very walkable with excellent public transportation too.

If you’re starting your trip in Dublin, maybe book a rental car when you’re ready to leave the city, for exploring the rest of the country.

Don’t book a car without reading the company reviews. You’ll find plenty of bad reviews for every company (people love to complain online), but try to pick one with the LEAST bad reviews.

You may not always get the make/model/type of car you booked. If they give you a smaller car, or a manual when you asked for an automatic, be pushy and ask for an upgrade.

Inspect your car thoroughly and record video on your smartphone pointing out damage before you leave. This is a backup if they attempt to charge you for damage that was already there.

Pay attention to if your car takes regular petrol or diesel fuel, so you fill up with the correct type at gas stations.

Use Google Maps on your smartphone for directions. Bring your own hands-free adapter and buy an Irish SIM card at the airport.

Enjoy Your Ireland Road Trip!

Exploring the small villages, ancient castles, green mountains, and coastal cliffs of Ireland in a rental car was definitely the right choice for us.

Self-drive road trips get off the beaten track to see things most people miss! ★

➜ Check Car Rental Prices & Availability In Ireland

Travel Planning Resources For Ireland

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find a deal.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

Enjoy This Post? Pin It!

READ MORE FROM IRELAND

How To Visit The Cliffs Of Moher The Best Of Dublin Travel Guide My Irish Genealogy Road Trip Claiming Irish Citizenship By Decent

Any questions about driving or renting a car in Ireland? Are you planning a road trip there? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://expertvagabond.com/renting-car-in-ireland/

[party-hard-or-die]

In an Afghan City on the Brink, Government Control Is Just an Idea

GHAZNI CITY, Afghanistan — What does it feel like to live in an Afghan city on the brink of falling to the Taliban?

The residents of Ghazni, a provincial capital of 280,000 people about 110 miles south of the capital, Kabul, on a main highway, can hardly tell anymore who’s in charge, and fear has become an everyday companion.

With the Taliban controlling some of the road network around Ghazni, citizens have long felt vulnerable. But during a recent visit, I kept hearing an even greater sense of defenselessness. Many here fear a full-on effort by the Taliban to seize the city could come at any time.

Not content to merely control access to the city of 280,000, the insurgents have begun attacking police posts within it. The Taliban methodically extort money — they say it is taxation — from businesses in the city center, including those near the government headquarters, and an increasing number of insurgents live openly in the city. Their fighters regularly kill officials, security personnel and even traffic police officers.

A Taliban court claims jurisdiction over the city and its outskirts, and carries out floggings, and even, sometimes, stonings.

I have been to several Afghan provinces influenced by the Taliban, including Kunduz Province and its provincial capital before it fell to the insurgents. In those cities, the outskirts would seem dodgy but there was always some sense of reassurance of government control upon entering the city center.

Ghazni, just a two-hour drive from Kabul, felt edgier. Many residents and even officials wondered out loud what the idea of a city’s collapse even meant anymore, and whether they were not living it already. The city is not far from Khost, where 14 people were killed Sunday in a bombing as they lined up to register to vote.

Just getting to Ghazni can be a challenge.

Highway 1, the road that connects Kabul to the south of Afghanistan, has always been dangerous. When American military convoys were common here, it was a frequent target for roadside bombs. Now, with the Americans mostly gone, its defense rests with Afghan troops, and the Taliban have grown bolder, often setting up surprise checkpoints not far from government outposts.

As a precaution, on a recent trip, in case we ran into an insurgent checkpoint, I left in Kabul my reporter’s badge and my smartphone, which had government and foreign contacts in it.

The road is safe to travel only during daylight, preferably 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., when soldiers patrol. On my drive back to Kabul, I took the SIM card out of my simpler cellphone — on which I had received several calls from the office during our trip — and held it in my fingers, ready to throw it away if we sensed danger.

One of my first interviews in the area was with the family of a traffic police officer, Ali Ahmad Jalali, who was killed on April 20, shot eight times. Their village, Tauhidabad, is about six miles from the center of Ghazni, down a bumpy dirt road. His cousin, Ishaq Bahrami, quickly ushered me, for tea and conversation, to premises where he had a property dealership.

Mr. Jalali, who had three children, had been a regular police officer, but had shifted to the traffic force. That was no protection. He was shot around 10 a.m. when leaving his wife’s family’s house.

“Where he was shot was not 100 meters away from the Afghan Army check post,” Mr. Bahrami said.

Mr. Bahrami said he paid about $40 to the Taliban last year, but had not yet been approached for a further payment this year.

The authorities in Ghazni Province say the killings of security force personnel are usually carried out by young men on motorcycles, often using pistols with silencers. While about 50 government employees were killed in the city last year, the count for one 30-day stretch in March and April alone this year stands at 10 dead.

Mohammad Arif Noori, the spokesman for the provincial governor, said that on May 1, an Afghan soldier had been shot and killed at midday in the Hada-e-Qandar neighborhood of Ghazni.

To get a better sense of the security, I drove with a senior police official into the heart of the city. The commander, who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to brief the news media, climbed a hill with me to survey the area.

“The Taliban are present in the city,” he said, pointing out a particular neighborhood where they were most prevalent. “They have their homes here and can do whatever they want to.”

“Most of them have guns in their homes,” he continued “and we can’t do anything because we do not have the ability. Even if we arrest them, they will be out of jail soon and will come after the police to seek revenge.”

The commander bluntly acknowledged that his men were outnumbered. For that Taliban-heavy area, he had four police officers, he said; a maximum of three would be on duty at any one time.

He suggested that they had reached an accommodation with the insurgents there to keep his men from being targeted. He did not specify the nature of the arrangement because of the sensitivity involved.

Across the city of Ghazni, store owners and other businesspeople said they had no choice but to pay the Taliban representatives who say they are imposing taxes. The insurgents come once a year and take the money they gather to Mongur, an area outside the city, officials said.

A private radio and television station, next to a police station, had to pay about $1,700, employees said. A small shop on a main road not far from the governor’s office paid a little less than $200, its owner, Hajji Fateh, revealed.

“The agent came and took the money,” Mr. Fateh said. “He said, ‘If you don’t pay, I will put this pistol to your head.’ So how can I not pay?”

The governor of Ghazni, Abdul Karim Matin, acknowledged the practice. “The Taliban collect money from the people, unfortunately, be it shopkeepers or anyone, in the name of tax,” he said. “This is extortion, not tax.”

Before the interview, Mr. Matin was busy with security meetings, uniformed men going in and out of his office. When he moves from one building to another inside the governor’s compound, he drives in an armored S.U.V., sometimes escorted by security forces in Humvees.

Things got particularly bad at the end of April, when the central government in Kabul expressed fear that the Taliban had made it a priority to overrun Ghazni. A late-night call from the authorities in the capital to the regional army commander sent forces rushing to the city.

The attacks turned out to be less severe than expected, although at least four police officers were killed in an outpost in the Khasheek neighborhood of the city. The army has been keeping more troops than usual in Ghazni, and an outright Taliban takeover has seemed unlikely.

On Sunday, though, Mr. Bahrami said by telephone that fierce fighting was underway in Ghazni and that all the police checkpoints in the Khasheek neighborhood had fallen to the Taliban.

At the end of my trip to Ghazni, as we drove back to Kabul, my heart beat faster until we entered the relative safety of the capital city. I thought about the shrinking government control in the province I had just left.

When the Taliban infiltrate at will, shoot officials in broad daylight, and run a vast tax-collection system up to the gates of the governor’s compound, how strong can the central government’s authority be, even in its own backyard?

I recalled one resident of Ghazni, Mohammad Anwar, 60, who said his son, Mujtaba, a 22-year-old policeman, was gunned down on the street by a Taliban assassin this year. He despaired about how frequent open killings were becoming in the city.

“The government is very careless about the ordinary people of Ghazni,” he said.

“Losing a child is so painful,” he added, beginning to weep. “You endure a lot of hardship to raise a son, and then someone simply takes him from you.”

Jawad Sukhanyar is a senior reporter in The Times’s Kabul bureau. Follow him on Twitter: @JawadSukhanyar

Mujib Mashal contributed reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan.

The post In an Afghan City on the Brink, Government Control Is Just an Idea appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2Ionqxa via Breaking News

[newestbalance]

In an Afghan City on the Brink, Government Control Is Just an Idea

GHAZNI CITY, Afghanistan — What does it feel like to live in an Afghan city on the brink of falling to the Taliban?

The residents of Ghazni, a provincial capital of 280,000 people about 110 miles south of the capital, Kabul, on a main highway, can hardly tell anymore who’s in charge, and fear has become an everyday companion.

With the Taliban controlling some of the road network around Ghazni, citizens have long felt vulnerable. But during a recent visit, I kept hearing an even greater sense of defenselessness. Many here fear a full-on effort by the Taliban to seize the city could come at any time.

Not content to merely control access to the city of 280,000, the insurgents have begun attacking police posts within it. The Taliban methodically extort money — they say it is taxation — from businesses in the city center, including those near the government headquarters, and an increasing number of insurgents live openly in the city. Their fighters regularly kill officials, security personnel and even traffic police officers.

A Taliban court claims jurisdiction over the city and its outskirts, and carries out floggings, and even, sometimes, stonings.

I have been to several Afghan provinces influenced by the Taliban, including Kunduz Province and its provincial capital before it fell to the insurgents. In those cities, the outskirts would seem dodgy but there was always some sense of reassurance of government control upon entering the city center.

Ghazni, just a two-hour drive from Kabul, felt edgier. Many residents and even officials wondered out loud what the idea of a city’s collapse even meant anymore, and whether they were not living it already. The city is not far from Khost, where 14 people were killed Sunday in a bombing as they lined up to register to vote.

Just getting to Ghazni can be a challenge.

Highway 1, the road that connects Kabul to the south of Afghanistan, has always been dangerous. When American military convoys were common here, it was a frequent target for roadside bombs. Now, with the Americans mostly gone, its defense rests with Afghan troops, and the Taliban have grown bolder, often setting up surprise checkpoints not far from government outposts.

As a precaution, on a recent trip, in case we ran into an insurgent checkpoint, I left in Kabul my reporter’s badge and my smartphone, which had government and foreign contacts in it.

The road is safe to travel only during daylight, preferably 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., when soldiers patrol. On my drive back to Kabul, I took the SIM card out of my simpler cellphone — on which I had received several calls from the office during our trip — and held it in my fingers, ready to throw it away if we sensed danger.

One of my first interviews in the area was with the family of a traffic police officer, Ali Ahmad Jalali, who was killed on April 20, shot eight times. Their village, Tauhidabad, is about six miles from the center of Ghazni, down a bumpy dirt road. His cousin, Ishaq Bahrami, quickly ushered me, for tea and conversation, to premises where he had a property dealership.

Mr. Jalali, who had three children, had been a regular police officer, but had shifted to the traffic force. That was no protection. He was shot around 10 a.m. when leaving his wife’s family’s house.

“Where he was shot was not 100 meters away from the Afghan Army check post,” Mr. Bahrami said.

Mr. Bahrami said he paid about $40 to the Taliban last year, but had not yet been approached for a further payment this year.

The authorities in Ghazni Province say the killings of security force personnel are usually carried out by young men on motorcycles, often using pistols with silencers. While about 50 government employees were killed in the city last year, the count for one 30-day stretch in March and April alone this year stands at 10 dead.

Mohammad Arif Noori, the spokesman for the provincial governor, said that on May 1, an Afghan soldier had been shot and killed at midday in the Hada-e-Qandar neighborhood of Ghazni.

To get a better sense of the security, I drove with a senior police official into the heart of the city. The commander, who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to brief the news media, climbed a hill with me to survey the area.

“The Taliban are present in the city,” he said, pointing out a particular neighborhood where they were most prevalent. “They have their homes here and can do whatever they want to.”

“Most of them have guns in their homes,” he continued “and we can’t do anything because we do not have the ability. Even if we arrest them, they will be out of jail soon and will come after the police to seek revenge.”

The commander bluntly acknowledged that his men were outnumbered. For that Taliban-heavy area, he had four police officers, he said; a maximum of three would be on duty at any one time.

He suggested that they had reached an accommodation with the insurgents there to keep his men from being targeted. He did not specify the nature of the arrangement because of the sensitivity involved.

Across the city of Ghazni, store owners and other businesspeople said they had no choice but to pay the Taliban representatives who say they are imposing taxes. The insurgents come once a year and take the money they gather to Mongur, an area outside the city, officials said.

A private radio and television station, next to a police station, had to pay about $1,700, employees said. A small shop on a main road not far from the governor’s office paid a little less than $200, its owner, Hajji Fateh, revealed.

“The agent came and took the money,” Mr. Fateh said. “He said, ‘If you don’t pay, I will put this pistol to your head.’ So how can I not pay?”

The governor of Ghazni, Abdul Karim Matin, acknowledged the practice. “The Taliban collect money from the people, unfortunately, be it shopkeepers or anyone, in the name of tax,” he said. “This is extortion, not tax.”

Before the interview, Mr. Matin was busy with security meetings, uniformed men going in and out of his office. When he moves from one building to another inside the governor’s compound, he drives in an armored S.U.V., sometimes escorted by security forces in Humvees.

Things got particularly bad at the end of April, when the central government in Kabul expressed fear that the Taliban had made it a priority to overrun Ghazni. A late-night call from the authorities in the capital to the regional army commander sent forces rushing to the city.

The attacks turned out to be less severe than expected, although at least four police officers were killed in an outpost in the Khasheek neighborhood of the city. The army has been keeping more troops than usual in Ghazni, and an outright Taliban takeover has seemed unlikely.

On Sunday, though, Mr. Bahrami said by telephone that fierce fighting was underway in Ghazni and that all the police checkpoints in the Khasheek neighborhood had fallen to the Taliban.

At the end of my trip to Ghazni, as we drove back to Kabul, my heart beat faster until we entered the relative safety of the capital city. I thought about the shrinking government control in the province I had just left.

When the Taliban infiltrate at will, shoot officials in broad daylight, and run a vast tax-collection system up to the gates of the governor’s compound, how strong can the central government’s authority be, even in its own backyard?

I recalled one resident of Ghazni, Mohammad Anwar, 60, who said his son, Mujtaba, a 22-year-old policeman, was gunned down on the street by a Taliban assassin this year. He despaired about how frequent open killings were becoming in the city.

“The government is very careless about the ordinary people of Ghazni,” he said.

“Losing a child is so painful,” he added, beginning to weep. “You endure a lot of hardship to raise a son, and then someone simply takes him from you.”

Jawad Sukhanyar is a senior reporter in The Times’s Kabul bureau. Follow him on Twitter: @JawadSukhanyar

Mujib Mashal contributed reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan.

The post In an Afghan City on the Brink, Government Control Is Just an Idea appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2Ionqxa via Everyday News

[cleopatrarps]

In an Afghan City on the Brink, Government Control Is Just an Idea

GHAZNI CITY, Afghanistan — What does it feel like to live in an Afghan city on the brink of falling to the Taliban?

The residents of Ghazni, a provincial capital of 280,000 people about 110 miles south of the capital, Kabul, on a main highway, can hardly tell anymore who’s in charge, and fear has become an everyday companion.

With the Taliban controlling some of the road network around Ghazni, citizens have long felt vulnerable. But during a recent visit, I kept hearing an even greater sense of defenselessness. Many here fear a full-on effort by the Taliban to seize the city could come at any time.

Not content to merely control access to the city of 280,000, the insurgents have begun attacking police posts within it. The Taliban methodically extort money — they say it is taxation — from businesses in the city center, including those near the government headquarters, and an increasing number of insurgents live openly in the city. Their fighters regularly kill officials, security personnel and even traffic police officers.

A Taliban court claims jurisdiction over the city and its outskirts, and carries out floggings, and even, sometimes, stonings.

I have been to several Afghan provinces influenced by the Taliban, including Kunduz Province and its provincial capital before it fell to the insurgents. In those cities, the outskirts would seem dodgy but there was always some sense of reassurance of government control upon entering the city center.

Ghazni, just a two-hour drive from Kabul, felt edgier. Many residents and even officials wondered out loud what the idea of a city’s collapse even meant anymore, and whether they were not living it already. The city is not far from Khost, where 14 people were killed Sunday in a bombing as they lined up to register to vote.

Just getting to Ghazni can be a challenge.

Highway 1, the road that connects Kabul to the south of Afghanistan, has always been dangerous. When American military convoys were common here, it was a frequent target for roadside bombs. Now, with the Americans mostly gone, its defense rests with Afghan troops, and the Taliban have grown bolder, often setting up surprise checkpoints not far from government outposts.

As a precaution, on a recent trip, in case we ran into an insurgent checkpoint, I left in Kabul my reporter’s badge and my smartphone, which had government and foreign contacts in it.

The road is safe to travel only during daylight, preferably 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., when soldiers patrol. On my drive back to Kabul, I took the SIM card out of my simpler cellphone — on which I had received several calls from the office during our trip — and held it in my fingers, ready to throw it away if we sensed danger.

One of my first interviews in the area was with the family of a traffic police officer, Ali Ahmad Jalali, who was killed on April 20, shot eight times. Their village, Tauhidabad, is about six miles from the center of Ghazni, down a bumpy dirt road. His cousin, Ishaq Bahrami, quickly ushered me, for tea and conversation, to premises where he had a property dealership.

Mr. Jalali, who had three children, had been a regular police officer, but had shifted to the traffic force. That was no protection. He was shot around 10 a.m. when leaving his wife’s family’s house.

“Where he was shot was not 100 meters away from the Afghan Army check post,” Mr. Bahrami said.

Mr. Bahrami said he paid about $40 to the Taliban last year, but had not yet been approached for a further payment this year.

The authorities in Ghazni Province say the killings of security force personnel are usually carried out by young men on motorcycles, often using pistols with silencers. While about 50 government employees were killed in the city last year, the count for one 30-day stretch in March and April alone this year stands at 10 dead.

Mohammad Arif Noori, the spokesman for the provincial governor, said that on May 1, an Afghan soldier had been shot and killed at midday in the Hada-e-Qandar neighborhood of Ghazni.

To get a better sense of the security, I drove with a senior police official into the heart of the city. The commander, who asked not to be named because he was not authorized to brief the news media, climbed a hill with me to survey the area.

“The Taliban are present in the city,” he said, pointing out a particular neighborhood where they were most prevalent. “They have their homes here and can do whatever they want to.”

“Most of them have guns in their homes,” he continued “and we can’t do anything because we do not have the ability. Even if we arrest them, they will be out of jail soon and will come after the police to seek revenge.”

The commander bluntly acknowledged that his men were outnumbered. For that Taliban-heavy area, he had four police officers, he said; a maximum of three would be on duty at any one time.

He suggested that they had reached an accommodation with the insurgents there to keep his men from being targeted. He did not specify the nature of the arrangement because of the sensitivity involved.

Across the city of Ghazni, store owners and other businesspeople said they had no choice but to pay the Taliban representatives who say they are imposing taxes. The insurgents come once a year and take the money they gather to Mongur, an area outside the city, officials said.

A private radio and television station, next to a police station, had to pay about $1,700, employees said. A small shop on a main road not far from the governor’s office paid a little less than $200, its owner, Hajji Fateh, revealed.

“The agent came and took the money,” Mr. Fateh said. “He said, ‘If you don’t pay, I will put this pistol to your head.’ So how can I not pay?”

The governor of Ghazni, Abdul Karim Matin, acknowledged the practice. “The Taliban collect money from the people, unfortunately, be it shopkeepers or anyone, in the name of tax,” he said. “This is extortion, not tax.”

Before the interview, Mr. Matin was busy with security meetings, uniformed men going in and out of his office. When he moves from one building to another inside the governor’s compound, he drives in an armored S.U.V., sometimes escorted by security forces in Humvees.

Things got particularly bad at the end of April, when the central government in Kabul expressed fear that the Taliban had made it a priority to overrun Ghazni. A late-night call from the authorities in the capital to the regional army commander sent forces rushing to the city.

The attacks turned out to be less severe than expected, although at least four police officers were killed in an outpost in the Khasheek neighborhood of the city. The army has been keeping more troops than usual in Ghazni, and an outright Taliban takeover has seemed unlikely.

On Sunday, though, Mr. Bahrami said by telephone that fierce fighting was underway in Ghazni and that all the police checkpoints in the Khasheek neighborhood had fallen to the Taliban.

At the end of my trip to Ghazni, as we drove back to Kabul, my heart beat faster until we entered the relative safety of the capital city. I thought about the shrinking government control in the province I had just left.

When the Taliban infiltrate at will, shoot officials in broad daylight, and run a vast tax-collection system up to the gates of the governor’s compound, how strong can the central government’s authority be, even in its own backyard?

I recalled one resident of Ghazni, Mohammad Anwar, 60, who said his son, Mujtaba, a 22-year-old policeman, was gunned down on the street by a Taliban assassin this year. He despaired about how frequent open killings were becoming in the city.

“The government is very careless about the ordinary people of Ghazni,” he said.

“Losing a child is so painful,” he added, beginning to weep. “You endure a lot of hardship to raise a son, and then someone simply takes him from you.”

Jawad Sukhanyar is a senior reporter in The Times’s Kabul bureau. Follow him on Twitter: @JawadSukhanyar

Mujib Mashal contributed reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan.

The post In an Afghan City on the Brink, Government Control Is Just an Idea appeared first on World The News.

from World The News https://ift.tt/2Ionqxa via News of World

[captain-unlikelynutbouquet-blog]

Name of insurance company department?

"Name of insurance company department?

I'm looking for a department that response to check the credit, background, health and others of customers making sure customers are able to get this insurance. What is the name of this department? May be the description is not very clear, any related department is ok. Thx

BEST ANSWER:  Try this site where you can compare quotes: : http://freeinsurancequotes.xyz/index.html?src=tumblr 

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I was rear ended by a kid that has no car insurance. He license was also suspended because of this. I called the police and filed a report with my insurance company. Do I have other options? I feel I should not put out a cent as I was not at fault. I have to pay my deductible and I know my insurance will go up, no matter what they say...""

I have title to my exes car and pay their insurance. How do I get out of it?

Me and my girl broke up a year and a half ago. She's a real piece of work. We lived together for 3 years and had everything is each others names. Utility bills, cell phone bills etc. She never paid any of her bills on time and it destroyed her credit. I signed for a car for her because she's had multiple DUI's and didn't have the credit to get her own. She made the payments on it and I never put any money down. The car title is in my name and she has paid it off. She can't get insurance because of the DUI's. I just want to be done with it so I don't have to deal with her anymore but she wants me to hold off until she finished her DUI classes to get a reasonable rate on insurance. She's been telling me the same thing for a year plus. I'm not even sure if she's taken or taking these classes yet or not. I asked her about it the other day and she never responded to me. I had left her a voicemail and she never called me back. This really pisses me off. So my question is if I sign the title and make her sign it as well do I have any more resposibility with the automobile? I just want to drop her from my insurance and give her the title. Is she wrecks or, god forbid, kills someone while driving am I liable for anything?""

Auto accident??? insurance?

just wondering how much will my auto insurance go up if i file a claim?? there was no injuries and no damage to the other partys car. my car was estimated $4000 of damage to fix.. me and my mom pay $180 a month for 3 cars. 2 full coverage and 1 is only liability. good thing that i have full cov on the car i used.

New Insurance coverage?

ok im having a really hard time calling these people and getting no answers. its plain and simple. I have health insurance through my mother. I recently had a baby and i was told he will only be covered for 2 months and after that i will have to get his own coverage. Now the question is this. I want to get my own insurance so he can be under my name, meaning i want to be off the one my parents have me under. is that possible? and if otherwise, would i have to put him under my moms or what?""

Few questions on cars and insurance UK ONLY?

i live in the uk and im 16 but 17 soon after my tests and things i want to buy a renualt clio 1.2 and the insurance group is 3E. now is this a high insurance group for a 17 year old as a first car? also if you buy a car and put a body kit on it your insurance goes up. so if i bought a car put a body kit on it and then insured it would it be as much or will it still go up?

How to get cheaper car insurance for 2nd year? haggle 17 18 year old driver car insurance renewal price No NCB?

ok so i am 18 now, me and my brother have shared a policy insured for 10 months with Admiral as a named driver and it cost us 1450. My brother is the main driver and uses the car 95% of the time, i only use it now and then. The 10 months have passed and they have sent him a renewal price of 1200, is there anyway i can help him get it cheaper than this? could he haggle with admiral or go to another company and show them that the renewal price is 1200? also, my car is a 1.0L 2002 seat arosa, would we be able to swap it for a 1998 1.4L seat arosa (they are like 600 less) or would the insurance go up? please help! thanks guys""

Does Car Insurance Still Go Down On Parent's Insurance?

Basically i am going on my parent's insurance but as a named driver only. I know the risks of it and was wondering what will happen when i turn 25 Will my insurance still go down or will i have to pay a full insurance due to only being a named driver ?

How much would insurance be for a 1998-2001 mitsubishi eclipse for me?

im 16 and i need a car i would like to get a mitsubishi eclipse like a 1998-2001 model but I dont know how much my insurance would be. like i said im 16 and my grade point average is about a 2.5-3.0 (i get D and C) so if any one know plz share with me, thanks!""

Where do you get good rates for dance instructor liability insurance?

I am a dance instructor and I need to get liability insurance. Anyone know of a place to get the best quotes. I tried Markel and they are expensive. I also plan to have other instructors that I train and work with me. How do I get insurance for them? Is this per instructor, or can it be as a dance school? Please let me know. I need this info ASAP. Thanks for your help""

Explain why auto insurance costs are so high for young drivers?

please EXPLAIN in the longest way possible

Is there such a thing as affordable health and dental insurance for someone that is 60 years old?

And in pretty good health? What company(ies) would you recommend. I live in Omaha, Nebraska United States. I currently pay $330 a month for PPO BCBS a month and it is killing me! Thanks""

Why is driving without insurance wrong?

if you are responsible for an accident, can't you still be made to pay up by law?""

Whats the average car insurance costs for a 16 year old male in Florida?

Whats the average car insurance costs for a 16 year old male in Florida?

What is a good estimate of the cost of insurance for a Mustang V6?

I am 16 and I have been looking at a manual transmission V6 Mustang for the past couple of years. I have looked around and I am aware of the typical prices that are being sold. I'm trying to focus on the 2007-2010 versions. The 2010 V6 Mustang is the version that has really caught my eye. I need to know how much I should expect to spend/save. Thank You.

Cheap auto insurance?

I am looking for auto insurance......i have a dui on my record and im about to get my license back....so i need some suggestions on some cheap insurance.....i have already tried the general and dairy land....

Do I add Real Estate company to car insurance policy?

My mom and I were hired by a well known real estate company. We are on the same auto insurance policy (clean records). When we were hired, while in training, I called around for quotes. I explained that I did not know how many miles I would be driving yet. The agent said I keep it where it was and if I notice I drive around more to call and adjust the rate. I was up front about getting into real estate. The quote was good. Two weeks letter I get a letter I have to fill out for the auto company. They want to know millage again and if I will be using the cars for work. I was honest about everything, including the company.. I received a notice today that my policy went up almost $400 because they upped my milage (I put between 9-15k, so of course they went in and put in 15k LOL.... but even brining down that, because the company is on there, I am under a business policy ... Is this correct?""

Can car insurance companies commit an offence? IN10?

My car insurance company (One Call) recently cancelled my policy due to them not receiving my proof of no claims in time (that's another issue). However, they failed to notify me in time and I carried on driving my car for 5 days un insured, until the letter arrived (policy cancelled on 10/9/12 and letter sent 14/9/12). Does anyone know if they have committed an offence, IN10 or other? They also charged me 205 cancellation (even though an extension on the proof of no claims was agreed and then later denied when I questioned them) Any advice is very welcome. Thanks.""

I had some questions about car insurance and things of that nature?

Im am 17 and about to get my car at 18 it is gonna be my first car and i have never been in an accident before how much will insurance cost and how does it work is it more if its under me instead of an adult. and another off topic question.. i have a laptop but i dont know what the light where it tells if the power is on is called u know the three lights because my brother punched that area and it broke as in the lights dont turn on anymore?

Will an insurance company drop a client if they get a DUI?

Will an insurance company drop a client if they get a DUI?

Any one know any good insurance for new driver that is only 18?

My mom tried adding me to her AAA insurance and it would be 1150 every sic month that too much anyother cheap insurances thanks

Name of insurance company department?

I'm looking for a department that response to check the credit, background, health and others of customers making sure customers are able to get this insurance. What is the name of this department? May be the description is not very clear, any related department is ok. Thx

What is the cheapest auto insurance for young drivers?

With your experiences with auto insurance, whats been the cheapest you've had or knew someone had. I'm 20 with a 2001 Mazda Protege LX 2.0L in NYS""

Lexus Tail lights and Angel Eye front lights - Insurance?

So im thinking about getting these for car my, does anybody know how much the insurance will go up by if i get them, thanks""

What's a sensible sporty/fast car for a young driver?

I'm 19, 2 years driving experience. I've had two 1.6 escorts and find they are completely gutless. I'm looking for a faster, more sporty car that isn't going to kill me on insurance. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!""

Insurance and Totaling a car?

Hello, I was recently a victim of a hit and run on a brand new 07 car. The back was smashed and the right back tire was sideways. The insurance company had me bring it to one of their authorized body shops. After 9k worth of damage, I received the car back. I was told the insurance adjusters told the shop not to replace certain parts etc. When I received the car, I brought it to the dealer to get it a wheel alignment. The mechanic came back and said the car could not be aligned and there was still major damage (subframe was bent - I could even see it). He also stated that the car will never drive the same after the accident even if the subframe is replaced and it would pull to one side and cause wear on the tires. Do I have the right to demand the car totalled from the insurance company? The car was 3 months old before the accident and I would want it in the same condition that I got it in. Thanks PS car was hit in NJ - insurance in NY""

Motorbike Insurance/Tax/SORN/MOT need help!?

Hi, I recently bought my first motorbike a few month in advance of my 17th birthday, with the intention to ride it once im 17. When i got the bike, it had no MOT or road tax and it was registered as SORN (meaning it was registered as being off the road). So i filled in the registration document, rang up the DVLA and re-registered the vehicle as SORN again. The thing i would like to know is, when it comes to the time of my 17th birthday, in what order do i get each of the things, for example, would i get the MOT before the roadtax and if so how would i get my bike to the MOT centre without having roadtax, and would i still be able to get insured on an untaxed bike with no MOT? So basicly, what order do i get the insurance, MOT and roadtax in? Sorry i hope this made sense i have tried to describe it in the best way possible, thanks for any help.""

How much is car insurance.?

what car insurance for a new driver ,lady 27 .for a 6 seat car ,value 1.000 . from a small nottingham town ng177JEM""

Is car insurance very high in California?

Is car insurance very high in California?

Where can I find an insurance company to....?

... cover all of my insurance needs? http://www.intelligentonline.co.uk/finance/insurance/insurance.htm

What is the best car insurance for a first car and someone in the early 20s?

Hey guys.. So, i'm only 22 years old and i'm looking to to buy my first car really soon but first i want to find a good and affordable insurance agency. So far i'm looking to compare the following insurance companies: Geico, State Farm, Progressive, State Farm, etc. Any other suggestions would also come in handy.. Thank You!.""

Cheap auto insurance safe to have?

I'm going to buy auto insurance and the rates I'm getting are pretty low, $72.00 per month (Progressive) and $92.00 (Geico). But I picked the state's lowest minimum coverage that was available, and I was wondering if it's safe/okay to do that? Thanks :)""

What Cheap car insurance do you use?

What car insurance do you use?

Insurance help plzzz???!!!!?

could someone please describe both perfessional indemnity and public liabilitiy insurance???? thankyou very much

Insurance screwed me over so my motorcycle got impounded.?

(If you want to know how I got screwed then just ask but here is my question..) I got a GSXR 1000 a week ago and it got impounded this past Saturday.. I'm going tomorrow to pick it up, and I'm wondering what will happen if I get there and the bike has scratches or it's been dropped.? Will they be held responsible to get it fixed or my insurance company because they screwed me over or myself?""

""Can I cancel my Health insurance at work, because it is too expensive?""

We enrolled for Health insurance thru my husbands work,and we were not told how much the payments would be. We were told to wait and see what they took out of his paycheck, and that would be the payment. Now we are paying over $500 a month, for a family of four, and on only one income. We are unable to pay our bills like water, and electric, and have to make considerable cuts in our grocery shopping. We decided to cancel our insurance, and get our kids on the state program, but when my husband asked the HR department about cancelling insurance due to financial hardship, they told him he would have to wait 6 months until it was open enrollment. We can't wait that long. Are they allowed to do this?""

Why do men and women pay the same price for heath insurance becouse obamacare?

women see the doctor 30% more then men.

When can i refinance my car loan ??

i bought a car on June 5th this year ( 200-7-) Now i pay around 425 dollars for it every month , and as per insurance around 198 . i make around 750 dollars a month . i am doing this because i want to be independent from my parents. If i don't start somewhere then i will never be on my own . anyway emotional stuff aside..hehe. When can i refinance my loan , currently it's around 6-7% I think my credit score went high , my equifax is 669 , when i checked right now on creditinform.com. I have chase bank , you think they can lower it ? do you know how much lower they can go ? around 300 maybe? i am goin to take defensive driving class also , i heard that saves a lot of money also on insurance.. Please help , : ) thanks , have a nice day.""

If I do not have car insurance...?

and i live with with my grandparents and they have car insurance but i dont, and i have my liscence, can i still drive their car with it not being illegal in the state of Massachusetts? Because i cant afford the insurance and if their car is insured i am told an officer cannot do anything about it, as long as the cars insured im fine, is this true? Thanks!""

Peugeot 206 gti insurance cost?

Does anyone know roughly how much it would cost for first time insurance? I'm 18 by the way.

How long does it take for car insurance to lower rates?

I have been with GEICO auto insurance for roughly 1year and then another approximately 4-5years. I had a break due to joining the military. At this time i receive coverages every 6 months. The problem i have with GEICO is that i been paying just about the same since I started and just recently my rate went down only 20 dollars. I have been in one accident with an elderly who passed a stop sign, a speeding ticket of driving 35 on a 25 and i believe two seat belt tickets. Nothing in the last two years or more. What do i do to get my rates lowered without effecting the quality of coverage. When do insurance companies lower their rates??""

Do you have to buy auto insurance as a condition of OWNING a car? or DRIVING a car?

If you own an RV and you live in it but you don't drive it.....does the auto insurance mandate apply to you?

What is the best life insurance company that dont require medical exams?

im trying to buy life insurance for me and my 49 yr old mother. what is the best company that doesnt raise premiuims and dont require exams....but stil lprovide full life insurance?

Do I qualify for federal health insurance?

My parents don't get insurance through their jobs, and they can't afford private insurance. My parents and I are currently enrolled in an assistance program through our local hospital. I go to a private university that requires for students to have some type of health insurance. If the student doesn't have health insurance, the school charges the student $1,000 for the school insurance. Since I am 19 years old, I no longer qualify for CHIPS, which I've had all my life. I am a full time student, I am a U.S. citizen, I am in Texas, my parents are low income, I don't have proof of a job (I'm a nanny and get paid in cash). Online resources are confusing. But is there any federal insurance program that I may be eligible for?""

What things increase the cost of car insurance?

im 21 and the quotes are huge!! help!

How do I get health insurance?

I am a heart transplant patient without health insurance and am on disability for 8 months. I am not able to recieve coverage from anyone and have large medical and prescription costs.

I was in a car accident that was not my fault. Does my insurance go up?

This guy in front of me backed into my front end at a stop light. We both got out and he tried compromising. I refused and called the cops and took down his plates and the make of the car. Good thing I did because he left right after I called. I think this guy may have been illegal he didnt speak english and was very eager for me to not call the cops. I felt bad but my car is really messed up. Is my insurance going to go up? If so how much?

Name of insurance company department?

I'm looking for a department that response to check the credit, background, health and others of customers making sure customers are able to get this insurance. What is the name of this department? May be the description is not very clear, any related department is ok. Thx

Where can i get cheap auto insurance for an 18 year old student with a mustang?

Well this may sound like a long shot, but I just recently bought my son a Ford Mustang, Now its insurance time, hes 18, gets A's in school and has had drivers ed. Why do the quotes from Progressive and esurance estimate its going to cost nearly $500 a month, even with a 1990 honda junker it still cost nearly $400 do these prices seem reasonable, i cant recall them being that high, when i first got insurance, thanks.""

How do I enforce my rights according to Ca Auto Ins. Law without an attorney.?

Their insurance accepted fault immediately. I have rights according to CA Auto Ins. Law, but Geico acts like they do not have to adhere to my rights under California Insurance law. The CA Ins board is watching, but they will not answer this and other questions.""

What should I do with car insurance?

Okay there was a massive understanding. My mum and dad were getting my quotes for cars and they got me a quote for a Mitsubishi Colt 1.1 Black Hawk. Nice little car. The quote they got was 750 for my own insurance PROVISIONALLY. I tried telling that them reason it was that much was because it was provisional insurance. Not till they gave me the money for the car and told me to buy, did they realise that insurance is different now and you have to re-new it to full UK manual as soon as you pass your test. I've been looking at quotes and they're looking well to expensive for my own insurance. Is there a cheaper way? Like going on my mum and dads insurance? They've both been driving for well over 20 years and have no claims at all since they've started driving?""

Driving family car with no insurance?

I Drive my sister's car around a bit because i couldn't afford my insurance. Since I don't have insurance but my sister does on her car, would I get a ticket or get car towed if I drive it around without insurance? or would my sister's insurance cover it too? Thanks""

Regarding to Motorcycle insurance?

Hi, I'm 24, male. I plan on getting the Yamaha R6-I'll be financing the bike. I have some questions regarding to insurance of the bike. My friend owns a 06 Suzuki GSXR750, it was his first bike, and he is a fresh bike rider also. But his full coverage is only $120/month. While searching online (geico, Progressive, allstate), I find out that the full coverage for the bike itself is $487/month-which I found strange. Because I'm older than my friend, he's 22. I understand that you need full coverage(collision, comprehensive coverage) when you're financing a bike. My friend is also financing the bike. But how come his full coverage is way cheaper than what I've searched for? I also picked the $500 deductible on Comprehensive and Collision too. But the lowest I got was $487/month-if not $880/month. When I decline the Comp and Coll, my coverage is only $84/month. Why is there a big gap for my full coverage comparing to my younger friend with a bigger cc bike? 600 vs. 750.""

Can a 17 year old get very cheap car insurance in Ireland?Anone have a good car insurance company?Thanks in ad?

Can a 17 year old get very cheap car insurance in Ireland?Anone have a good car insurance company?Thanks in ad?

Should i move to California?

im a senior in high school, i just finished my junior year so its the summer in between lol. i really want to move to california. i also want to go to college there too but im just worried about it. its really been stressing me out alot lately. so do you have any advice or suggestions?""

Car insurance switches?

i have a nissan sentra 93 my insurance is through allstar but, my cars transmission finally went out so i got another car but its not insured yet...i was wondering will my insurance company let me switch my coverage from my nissan to my new saturn??,, with out having to pay for another deposit and do i keep the tag from my other car and use it for the new one or do i give that back?? and is there anyway to find out how much a new tag and taxes will cost on my new car?? or do i just have to find out when i go to the dmv??""

Had a minor accident (my fault)... how much should I expect my insurance go up as a new driver?

I bought a brand new car and had an accident 3 hours after... I was parked and trying to leave, and while backing up I turn too early and my front bumper hit the rear side end of the other vehicle (damage of the other vehicle was 12x5 scrape and no dent)... I was asked for 1k for repairs so I decided to have our insurance work with it. I have insurance under Geico so I was wondering how much will my insurance go up as a new driver?""

Sell Life insurance in Georgia from Florida?

What do I need to do for me to sell Life insurance in Georgia if I have a Florida License and I live in Florida? Plus, How much will it cost?""

What is the best car to buy cheap to run and insurance etc.?

What is the best car to buy cheap to run and insurance etc.?

Which car is better to own?

as insurance and teenage point should i buy new one or lease it i am first time dirver which insurance should be cheaper for me looking bargian here

Where is a good place to get insurance after having a suspended license without paying a large sum?

My license was suspended in 2009 for a year. I currently have insurance under American family but they upped my fees to around 200 bucks for even if i have a decent record. Can anyone recommend a decent company that might be cheaper with the suspension on my record?

Wtf Is going on with car insurance companies?

Last company auto renewed my policy but i wasnt aware of this as had moved address, so to cancel it I had to pay 133 as id already started going with someone else on top of the initial deposit amount i had to pay for both companies which has took a large chunk of my money for what i feel was no fault of mine, then a month later im getting letters from my current insurance asking me to pay an extra 90 plus 25 admin fee or my policy will be cancelled AGAIN meaning a cancellation fee because when i said i had held my licence for 8 years they recon its 7 ive held it for and this makes my policy go up, thing is i got my licence on 22/08/2003 and took my poliocy out on the 19/08/2011 so they're making out when i took out the policy i only had licence for 7 years for sake of 2 days who the hell wouldnt have said 8 to that? it just seems theyre trying everything now days trawling through all your stuff finding the smallest detail just so they can get money off you or cancellation fees cos that way they're not risking anything on insurance but still gettin money off you for cancellation fees its a joke and I can really see why people think there's no point having insurance anymore. Plus I have never made a claim since I started driving but because others have in the country im being punished with premiums going up. Will it just end up where everyone who simply cant afford it thinks sod it and drives round with no insurance? surely that would make things even worse but all these cancellation fees if it happens again that I have to cancel that will be 550 ive paid in the last 2 months and still my car wont have insurance????? arghhhhh its doing my head in surely something can be done to help the customers a little more as insurance was always a headache but this is becoming ridiculous now. ..""

Car insurance cost need help?

my nephew is looking for a car and he wants to know how much insurance would cost. right now he is interested in an '88 Cadillac. he's 18 its his first car he lives in Indiana and didn't take a driving class. he also drives back and forth to school if that helps. how much should this cost him

What is the major advantage of term life insurance over whole life insurance?

What is the major advantage of term life insurance over whole life insurance?

Insurance prices for 08 silverado crewcab 5.3?

Im thinking about gettin a 2008 silverado crewcab 5.3 jus wondering what the insurance rates would be for me? Im 22 only had 1 ticket but paid it asap so it basicly didnt go on my record i jus wanna know what the insurance price will be full coverage? If anyone knows

Can I pay a AAA Auto Insurance bill online?

I'm in California but I don't know if that makes any diffrence.

Hit and Run insurance help!!?

My car was hit 4/19 and now I want to get it fixed through my insurance. The damages from Honda are about $1200. I think I should file with my insurance since I can't afford it. Since I did get the quote with Honda will the insurance company or DMV know I got it on that day?? I do not know if they will honor it since it was a few weeks ago.. I have a $100 detuctible and that is way cheaper than the $1200 but do not know what to tell them when i file the claim.. I am with Mercury and live in California

I am looking for car insurance for a courier?

this is different from regular insurance.. is there any service that offers just courier insurance. one who uses their car to make deliveries

What kind of deaths does life insurance cover?

Would it cover something like a heart attack or stroke?

Do you have to insure a road legal quad?

One with number plates, i want one. I'm 17 and don't have 5 grand to insure my own car, so what about a road legal quad? Are they loads to insure, or are they free to drive on a road? Thanks.""

Can i get Health New England Insurance in other states?

I'm thinking about moving to Virginia to be with my boyfriend once I graduate but i was wondering about my heath insurance... I have Health New England from my father, do they only provide it in New England... since it is called 'Health New England' or would i still be able to have it when i went to Virginia??""

Is progressive auto insurance reliable?

I just bought a 2009 Honda Civic EX. I've checked various quotes online based on my info, and they range near the $2000 (sometimes, just a 6 month policy). I just checked progressive, and it estimated a quote near the $1380 a year, that is $689.90 (6 month policy). It's a BIG difference, that's why I want to know what I'm getting into, any inputs???""

CHEAPEST AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY IN SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY?

i have a 2009 camry paid off

Name of insurance company department?

I'm looking for a department that response to check the credit, background, health and others of customers making sure customers are able to get this insurance. What is the name of this department? May be the description is not very clear, any related department is ok. Thx

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-some-good-websites-talk-insurance-options-single-william-sparks"

[levadedd]

10 Reliable Sources To Learn About car tyres.

Here are a few efficient suggestions which is able to show you how to in getting low-cost automotive insurance coverage. Comprehend the next wants with the intention to get an insurance coverage coverage at scale back prime quality prices. Internet is the greatest software to get entry to the product line of quite a few automotive insurance coverage corporations. You'll be able to fetch wanted info merely together with the assistance of search motors. Visiting the acknowledged web sites of various firms in addition to requesting for quotes is one more choice that may assist in bringing down the overall costs. Acquiring the quotes from completely different firms is mostly advisable as a result of it permits you to make a thorough comparability and choose the perfect one which meets your price range and protection requirements.

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Some great winter car care/preparation tips https://www.confused.com/on-the-road/maintenance/prepare-your-car-for-winter-maintenance-tips … — Doorstep Tyres Notts (@doorsteptyre) November 26, 2017

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[jesusvasser]

Discovering Baja 1000 Magic with Wide Open

We like to talk a big game, but most press trips are cushy, low-impact affairs where the worst you can expect is lost baggage or the airline lounge running out of your preferred tea. Sometimes, a swift kick in the spine is a great way to clear your lungs of complacency, as was the case with a high-speed blast through the craggy backroads of Baja California, Mexico.

The organizer of the trip was Wide Open Baja, an adventure experience company that specializes in satiating that off-road racing itch. No urge is too severe–if you’ve got enough courage, time, and money, Wide Open will give you an open seat and full team support in one of their Baja 1000 entries.

I partook in one of the popular Baja experience packages, a handful of guided tours aimed at bringing a grit-covered slice of the 1000 to the paying masses. It was a four-day affair, beginning in Ensenada and winding down through the stratified biomes of the Baja peninsula behind the wheel of some seriously capable buggies.

After meeting up with the Wide Open Baja team near San Diego International Airport, we piled into a van for the border crossing and roughly two-and-a-half hour drive from Tijuana to Ensenada. The highway first takes us southwest towards the city of Rosarito and then runs down the coast, eventually cutting through the coastal cliffs that separated us from our destination near the southern portion of the route.

Our first stop and overnight location was the idyllic Horsepower Ranch situated just south of the city. It’s a hacienda with a separate adjoining strip of rooms, with fabulously delicious food supplied by the cantina that was just a tomatillo’s throw away from the lodging. After filling up on handmade tortillas and frijoles, we explored the buggies that were parked in a neat line outside our rooms.

Wide Open calls these custom tube-frame weapons “Baja Challenge Cars,” and it’s not hard to see why. Each is essentially fiberglass-wrapped rollcages with a powertrain, barebones interior, and all necessary auxiliary gear for racing—effortlessly aggressive and absolutely purpose built. Despite the ‘roided-out appearance, these aren’t overboosted monsters. Power comes from a naturally aspirated Subaru flat-4 that sends roughly 175 hp to the rear wheels through a special four-speed manual transmission developed specifically for Baja. Acceleration is quick enough, but out among the dust and rocks, the buggy’s 90 mph top speed is terrifying.

The Baja 1000-ready rigs require patience for ingress and egress. Each break–water, bathroom, or food–took at least 3-5 minutes on each end for each driver and passenger. To get in, you step through the open window and drop yourself down into the bucket seat. Attaching the window net comes first, followed by the five-point harness. The helmet is a process by itself that requires first adjusting the dust shield attached to the rim of the helmet, then hooking up the mic cable and the thick hose that fed a constant stream of fresh air into the helmet. Once you’re in place, fire the car up by priming fuel pumps and perform a mic check.

We left Horsepower Ranch shortly after daybreak. One of the entrances to the race course begins right in the foothills of the ranch, and we wound our way up the dirt path slowly to warm the cars up, only gaining speed when the road spit us out onto a surprisingly smooth asphalt highway. With 18-inches of suspension travel and meaty 33-inch BF Goodrich tires, these buggies were happiest in the dirt. Every time we encountered smooth pavement, we swayed, overcorrected, and slalomed our way down the motorway until our guide, who was leading in a Challenge Car of his own, turned off onto one of the many tributary roads connected to the highway.

The race route itself is hardly organized. The entire Baja 1000 is held on a rat’s nest of roads that range from heavily trafficked dust farm roads to mountainous ridges that were nearly calcified over thanks to fallen rock and gravel. Wide Open makes no bones about the inherent danger–you’re only as safe as you drive. Aside from rolling off a cliff or stuffing the $100,000 Challenge Car into one of the many jutting boulders, the locals pose the greatest threat. Many of these roads are regularly used and visibility with a full helmet and window net is poor at best. We were spaced out far enough, but each radio call from ahead warning us of an oncoming car, cow, or unexpected ravine at a specified mile marker put me on high alert.

For me, I had the added stress of “racing” off-road for the first time to occupy my mind. Aside from a brief stint in a UTV at last year’s Legends Rally held on many of the same roads, my performance driving experience is limited to circuits and California Canyons. The rear-wheel-drive, rear-engine buggies were slippery, requiring an active foot for tight corners. Steering was quick and relatively vague, as expected with such massive tires. In a straight line, with plenty of visibility, I was most comfortable sitting around 55 – 60 mph, and trust me, that was fast enough.

Despite fearless locals and wayward cattle, the unfiltered beauty of Mexico was incredible. Over the course of three days, I blasted through so many different biomes that it’s difficult to remember each in solidarity. While the majority of the first day was comprised of regular dust-covered ranch roads, we eventually reached a mountainous region that harbored some of the most difficult roads–craggy, rock-covered hillclimbs that had to be taken in low-gear and at speed to prevent stalling mid-ascent. The Challenge Cars seemed to handle the bumps, bashes, and pelting well-enough, but this road would have atomized any lesser rig, including shiny Ford F-150 Raptors and even the new Chevrolet Colorado ZR2.

At the top of this bone-powdering gauntlet sits Mike’s Sky Ranch, second first overnight stop. This is a legendary destination for Baja 1000 competitors, some of who go off-route just to stay the night. After checking out the main building, which is plastered with an incredible amount of stickers from Baja teams and visiting enthusiasts, we once again set off for the trails in the early morning.

After some more ranch roads and desert paths, the farmlands gave way to a sharp, arid terrain reminiscent of Chile’s Atacama Desert. This stretch of pockmarked hills was billed as “seven miles of hell” by our guide, a title we found apropos. Craters, boulders, and jagged rocks brought our speed down to the single digits in some cases, and cost the support buggy one of the gears in its transmission.

  Bashing through the seven miles of hell spit us out onto a breathtaking coastal stretch that was one of the most beautiful and affirming moments of my career. On one side, the Pacific crashed against the rock beach, and on the other, a sandy field of small red berries tinged the landscape crimson. The air was cool, the roads relatively flat, and the scenery perfect.

“Car One, stay right where you are. Car One, don’t move, stay exactly where you are!” the call came from our guide James, who usually stays 20-30 seconds ahead of Car One (I was Car Four). “Ok, approach very, very slowly, then come to a stop once you see the cliff,” the radio squawked once we confirmed we could hear him. A bridge on the coastal road had given way, leaving a roughly 15-foot drop into a muck-lined ravine. From down the road, which gently crests over a small slope, the wash-out appeared as a simple ditch that could be taken at speed, only turning into the valley when it was too late to stop. James and his two-tone car had jettisoned off the cliff, smacking into the adjacent concrete wall and bouncing into the ravine.

Fortunately, the car was mostly intact—it was driven out of the pit under its own power once the support crew arrived on-scene—and James made out with just a few scrapes and a sore neck, a testament to the Challenge Car’s safety. Being as tough as the car, James was off again once the backup buggy arrived, leading the pack to the next checkpoint.

As we continued south, we blasted up full-sized sand dunes, through a massive Brussel sprout farm, over nearly impassable silt hills, and past small cities, abandoned churches, dead cattle, and palatial estates to end up close to where we started on the first day. I was hot, tired, grimy, and thirsty, but never before had I felt so proud and satisfied with a drive. As I wrote this, I came to realize just how much beauty and experience that was packed into four days. I thought my last Baja experience would be my last, but now I think this is just the beginning. Thanks, Wide Open Baja, I’ll see you at the border.

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