RSSOctober, 2012 | San Francisco Travel Blog Archive
Toyota Prius Is Top-Selling Car in San Francisco and Rest of California
Auto Data Corporation tracks auto sales across the country and issues an annual report ranking the best (and worst) selling cars in the U.S. The group recently published this year’s report, which states that the Toyota Prius is the best-selling car in the Bay Area and throughout California. The group tracked all vehicle sales from January through September and found that Californians bought at least 46,380 Prius hybrids over that period of time. Sales of the standard gas-electric hybrid Prius, the v wagon, the less expensive subcompact c and the all-electric, rose 26.3 percent in California over the same period of the previous year, and sales rose 14.5 percent in the rest of the country.
We have written about the Prius’ popularity in our blog before in a post about how popular the hybrid vehicles are with the wealthiest Californians. Apparently, that trend continues in the other states as well.
Jesse Toprak, automotive analyst at truecar.com, recently reported that, despite the low sticker price, Prius ownership is chic with the moneyed crowd.
"It’s one of the only non-luxury cars, that if you’re a wealthy person, it’s acceptable to own," he said.
A big part of the Prius’ success is reliability, but rising gas prices are also a big factor for California buyers. Gas prices here are the second-highest in the country, averaging $4.40 a gallon, compared to an average of $3.65 nationwide and second only to fuel prices in Hawaii.
Here in the Bay Area, many people prefer to go without owning a car to protect the environment and save money on gas, parking, insurance and maintenance. There are many alternatives for getting around, but every once in a while, people who don’t own a car need one for running errands, taking a drive to visit friends and relatives and many other uses.
That is why we offer San Francisco Prius rentals for our customers who only need a car for a day or an afternoon and want to reduce their carbon footprint. Our Prius rentals are clean, reliable and very affordable. If you’re looking for Prius hybrid rentals in the Bay Area, just give us a call at NLS Limo at 800-339-8936 to reserve yours today!
Rent One of Our San Francisco Limousines for a Sightseeing Tour!
Are you expecting a visit from friends or relatives and need a fun, luxurious and affordable way to show off our beautiful Bay Area? Rent one of our San Francisco limos, and treat them to one of our sightseeing tours! Renting a Bay Area limo for sightseeing instead of doing the driving yourself makes sense for many reasons such as these:
- Allowing you to focus on your guests
Renting a San Francisco limo for your sightseeing tour allows you to enjoy the ride as well! Instead of driving everyone from one destination to the next, you can focus instead on being a gracious host and catching up with friends and family. - Not having to deal with traffic
Why not leave the driving to the pros? Your chauffeur will know the best routes for taking in the sights and getting around traffic snarls, and you can enjoy not having to drive for once. - Giving your visitors a special experience
Surprising your guests with a limo ride for their sightseeing tour will surely be an experience that they will never forget! Everyone likes to be pampered, and riding in a limousine is the ultimate in luxury and comfort. - Relaxation
Imagine resting comfortably in the back of your limo, sipping a glass of your favorite beverage and taking in the San Francisco skyline. Or the Golden Gate Bridge. Or cruising along the coast. The possibilities are endless! Instead of dreading traffic and parking, you’ll be relaxing in the back of your limo and having a wonderful time!
We have lots of money-saving sightseeing tours from which to choose, or you can also create your own itinerary and show off your city and area with your own custom sightseeing tour. For more information about your San Francisco limo and sightseeing tour options, or to ask about creating your own tour, just give us a call today at 800-339-8936. We will be happy to answer all of your questions and make every effort to accommodate special requests. Call us at NLS Limo today to find out why we are the Bay Area’s premier limousine service!
Organizers Planning Game of Thrones Bus Tours Next Year
Fans of the smash hit HBO series Game of Thrones will be able to ride through the Irish countryside and view the locations where the program is filmed. The third season of the epic fantasy series is now being filmed in Northern Ireland, and planners report that they expect to have the tour buses up and running by this time next year. Game of Thrones fans will recognize many filming locations, including the North Coast Harbor of Ballintoy, a backdrop for many episodes. Other popular shooting locations expected to be included on the tour are Larrybane Quarry near the Carrickarede rope bridge on the North Coast, Inch Abbey and Tollymore Forest Park in Co Down.
The announcement pleased many tourism officials in Ireland, which, like many popular tourist destinations, has taken a sizable hit in recent years due to the recession.
"We have been working with the various tourism bodies for over a year, we got in touch about setting up this tour. We are helping them in terms of resources and putting them in touch with the right people like the broadcaster and distributor. We are keen on the overall film tourism thing, not just Game Of Thrones," one tourism official said.
Here in the Bay Area, we’re very familiar with movie and television locations as well. Lots of films and TV shows are and have been filmed in San Francisco and the surrounding area, and many local landmarks are instantly recognizable around the world. We’re no strangers to bus tours either. Millions of people visit our area each year and find that tour buses are the most comfortable, practical and affordable way to get around for sightseeing tours, airport transportation and many other destinations.
If you need comfortable and affordable group transportation for a sightseeing tour, wedding, sporting event or other special occasion, call us today at 800-339-8936. We offer luxury motor coaches, party buses, VIP buses and many other options to accommodate groups of all sizes. Whether you live in the Bay Area or are planning a visit, you can rely on NLS Limo for the best selection of San Francisco tour buses in the area. Call us today, and don’t forget to ask about our tour packages!
Maserati Plans to Increase Market Share With New Limousine and Other Models
Legendary Italian automaker Maserati has announced that they will introduce a new luxury limousine in the very near future, as well as a new SUV and mid-sized sedan. The recent announcement caught many exotic car enthusiasts by surprise, as Maserati has built an enviable reputation over the years as a designer and manufacturer of ultra high-end sports coupes. The new Maserati limousine will be called the Quattroporte, and comp-any officials hope that it, along with the new performance-focused SUV and luxury sedan models, will help Maserati boost sales and increase market share.
New models are not the only part of Maserati’s new direction. The automaker also plans to make some of their automobiles more affordable, with entry level models priced around $125,000, a price that is half that of Maserati’s lowest-priced cars. The Quattroporte is expected to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2013. Maserati is withholding most details about the new limo, but they have reported that it will be over 17 feet long and offer more cabin space than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series and Porsche Panamera.
The new sedan will be called the Ghibli, which Maserati says will compete with the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Classes. The new SUV will be called the Levante, which seems poised to compete with the Porsche Cayenne for SUV buyers with deep pockets.
Many staff members here at NLS Limo are very excited to hear about Maserati’s new direction. They are especially interested in seeing how Maserati designers reinvent the new limousine with their keen eye for automotive lines and details. If you have a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for superb customer service and need a San Francisco limousine for an upcoming event, you have definitely come to the right place! We have the Bay Area’s best selection of stretch limos, SUV limos, luxury sedans and other vehicles for groups of two up to 62. For more information about your options, as well as rates and availability, call us today at 800-339-8936!
Limo Service Takes Delivery of Custom Transformers Bumblebee Camaro SS Limousine
A limousine service in Perth, Australia, is about to increase its visibility in that market in a very big way. ShowTime Limos just took delivery of a custom Transformers Bumblebee Camaro SS stretch limo that will be difficult to overlook wherever it goes. The striking yellow and black paint job combined with the fact that it is a classic muscle car stretched into a limousine will certainly turn heads as it transports guests in this Western Australian city.
The limo company isn’t saying who took a Transformers Special Edition Bumblebee Camaro SS and added another eight or so feet to stretch it into a limo, but the creator certainly did some serious metal fabricating. The fabricating began with scissor-style front doors that mimic the appearance of a bumblebee’s wings. The custom automaker then added gullwing doors to the passenger cabin, which also resemble a bee’s wings. Moving inside, the first thing guests will notice is the Transformer Bumblebee head, which adorns the limo’s wet bar. The spacious cabin seats up to 12 guests who can enjoy luxury amenities such as fiber optic lighting, laser lights, a mirrored ceiling and a state-of-the-art audio system with CD player, iPod and MP3 player capabilities. The custom limo also offers two flat-screen TVs and a DVD player for watching DVDs of Transformers episodes and other entertainment.
Under the hood is a General Motors 6.2-liter V8 capable of producing up to 426 horsepower to get guests to their destinations in a hurry. All that power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission. We’ve no word yet on how this limo handles, but we’d guess that it doesn’t hold a corner at speed quite like a regular Special Edition Camaro SS.
This is another in a continuing series of blog posts intended to bring you the latest in weird and wonderful custom limousines. We do not currently offer any Camaro SS limousines in our fleet of San Francisco limos, but we do offer custom stretch limousines that are more focused on cool amenities and guest comfort than yellow and black paint jobs. If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable Bay Area limo rental, give us a call today at NLS Limo at 800-339-8936. We may not have a Transformer limousine, but we do have Lincolns, Hummers, Excursions, Cadillacs and many other models for you!
Tickled Pink Fun Day Treats Cancer Survivors to Limo Ride and Pampering
Ten women in Texas were treated recently to a full day of comfort and pampering, all due to a limousine service and an organization dedicated to helping cancer patients. The ladies were all strangers before being chosen by the South Texas Chapter of Guardians of the Ribbon, an organization dedicated to helping cancer patients. They are all cancer survivors selected for the organization’s annual Tickled Pink Fun Day who became fast friends and enjoyed each other’s company immensely during the limo ride, lunch and spa treatments.
Evelyn Thompson, a breast cancer survivor and one of the participants, said that few people understand the toll that cancer takes on a woman’s psyche and sense of well-being. “It has been nice because we do understand. It has been fun because there is a camaraderie there,” she said. "It is nice getting to know them; it is a special day."
The day began at 8 a.m. for the ladies when they were picked up by their limousine and transported to a local salon for a free hair and makeup makeover. Then, their limo took them to a local plaza where they were the guests of honor at a ceremony that included a release of doves and each of them signing the Pink Fire Truck of the Guardians of the Ribbon. Next, their limousine transported them to a very nice restaurant for a complimentary lunch and then a local nail spa for free manicures and pedicures.
"It means the world to me because it shows support, and that is what every person with cancer needs – the support of family and friends. That is what you need for healing," Thompson said.
Another honoree, a breast cancer survivor named Annie Frysak, also said that being around other cancer survivors helped her heal and face a recent diagnosis of leukemia.
“It makes me feel better being around other people that understand,” she said.
We often feature inspirational stories like this on our blog because they shed light on ordinary people doing extraordinary things for others who cannot or would not do them for themselves. We often partner with local charities to help people who deserve a limo ride and other treats to brighten their day, and we applaud limo services and organizations in other areas that make events like these possible. If you know of someone or a group of people that are going through a tough time and could use a bit of comfort and pampering in a San Francisco limousine, give us a call at NLS Limo at 800-339-8936.
San Francisco Company Sued By Taxi and Limo Companies Over Smartphone App
It’s been a rough couple of months for San Francisco software company Uber, the company that built a smartphone application that allows users to arrange and pay for taxi and limo rides with their phones. This month, the company’s attempt to add New York taxi service in addition to its limo services was swatted down by that city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission. Uber was also recently sued by taxi and limousine services in Chicago for “violating numerous local and state laws regarding public safety, consumer protection, and fair practices.”
Some say that Uber’s problems can be traced to the brash tactics and harsh criticism of city regulations of its CEO Travis Kalanick. Many cities have taken issue with Mr. Kalanick’s outspoken contempt “of any regulation (of his industry) in general,” saying that they are in a much better position to dictate policy in their cities than he is.
The lawsuit filed recently in the Northern District of Illinois claims that Uber’s pricing policies are predatory, especially the 20 percent gratuity surcharge for its e-hail and payment service. Uber has announced that they plan to implement a similar surcharge for New York customers. The suit alleges that while customers are charged 20 percent for a gratuity, only half of that money goes to the driver, with the other half going to Uber. The suit also claims that the company charges more than the established rate for taxi meters and charges customers for credit card processing costs, a violation of Chicago ordinances.
The suit also claims that Uber’s actions are unlawful, as they arrange fares without the knowledge or consent of taxi and limousine companies. The complaint states that the smartphone application gives users the “false impression” that it is in association with transportation providers. It says that this false impression gives Uber “the aura of legitimacy,” with the public while avoiding “the costs and time necessitated by compliance with the laws and regulations.”
As you might guess, we have our own perspective on this application. We feel that there is a far simpler method of arranging limousine rides, at least in the Bay Area, that doesn’t require a smartphone app or a smartphone. People who need to rent a San Francisco limo for an upcoming event can use any kind of phone to call us at 800-339-8936 and speak with one of our reservation specialists. A smartphone app may be slick and fast, but it can’t answer questions, greet you warmly, help you decide which Bay Area limo rental is best for you and your group or help you in many other aspects. If you prefer genuine customer service over cutting-edge technology, call us at NLS Limo today, and let us help you choose the San Francisco limousine that will be perfect for your special occasion!
Classic Car Enthusiasts Turn Attention to Big Auction in UK Next Month
There will be a lot of treats for classic car lovers in the United Kingdom this coming Halloween. That’s the day that a classic car fleet worth an estimated $42 million will go on the auction block that features lots of rare automotive gems, including an Aston Martin once owned by Paul McCartney, a Ferrari Formula One racing car, a rare Gullwing Mercedes coupe and many other automotive sweets. Many eyes will focus on the RM Auctions Automobiles of London event in Battersea, where at least 91 classic cars will be on the auction block.
Highlights on the docket include these:
- A 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing, one of just 29 built, worth an estimated $5 million
- A 1998 Ferrari F300 Formula One Racing car, worth an estimated $750,000
- A 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Shooting Brake, worth an estimated $510,000
- A 1967 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine once owned by Coco Chanel, Elizabeth Taylor and John Lennon, worth an estimated $175,000
- A 1952 Bentley Continental R-Type Fastback Sports Saloon by H.J. Mulliner & Co., worth an estimated $1 million
- At least 11 more classic Aston Martin automobiles of various vintages
- At least 11 more Ferraris, including a pristine 250 GT LWB ‘Tour de France,’ worth an estimated $3 million
- Vintage Bugattis, Mini Coopers and even a few vintage motorcycles as well
Prices for vintage automobiles have surged in recent years as more and more buyers have turned to them as investment vehicles. Prices for exceptionally rare cars, such as the Gullwing Mercedes and others, have increased as much as 19 percent in the last year alone, making them a very attractive option for investors looking for opportunities. Classic car values are closely monitored by Dietrich Hatlapa of the Historic Automotive Group Index, who says that values are up an astonishing 63 percent in the last five years.
He reports that, “Classic cars have been doing very well recently, and this year there has been a double-digit increase in value. The increase doesn’t apply to all old models, but rare cars which are technically interesting and have a racing pedigree are doing well.”
If you love classic cars but don’t have the means to buy one, we believe that we have the perfect solution! Rent one of our San Francisco classic cars and experience the thrill of riding in a vintage automobile at a tiny fraction of the cost of owning one. We have one of the best selections of vintage car rentals in the Bay Area, and they are available at very affordable rates. For more information about our makes, models and rentals rates, browse the pages of our site, and call us at NLS Limo at 800-339-8936 to reserve yours today!
New Range Rover Promises to Be “World’s Finest Luxury SUV”
Range Rover is now on its fourth generation of luxury sports utility vehicles, and the latest version breaks new ground in SUV composition and performance in a number of ways. The new SUV is much lighter (39 percent) due to an all aluminum monocoque body structure that reduces weight by nearly 1,000 pounds. The lighter weight makes the new SUV faster off the line and much more nimble when maneuvering through urban or off-road terrain, as well as improving fuel economy and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
The lighter body is grafted to a new aluminum chassis that features an independent air suspension for each wheel that delivers performance without sacrificing comfort. Early reviewers say that the steering on the new SUV has a more natural, intuitive feel than earlier Range Rover models, which significantly reduces body roll when cornering at speed.
Land Rover Global Brand Director John Edwards was effusive in his praise of the new SUV.
He said, “The new Range Rover preserves the essential, unique character of the vehicle – that special blend of luxury, performance and unmatched all-terrain capability. However, its clean sheet design and revolutionary lightweight construction have enabled us to transform the experience for luxury vehicle customers, with a step change in comfort, refinement and handling.”
The new SUV features some new refinements for the cabin as well. The windshield and door windows are coated with an acoustic laminate, which, along with the new lighter chassis and body, significantly reduces wind and road noise. The brochure describes the interior as “sumptuous,” a term that may well be accurate, given the SUV’s real wood veneers, plush leather seating, enhanced legroom and a wealth of other creature comforts.
The new Range Rover is available with a supercharged V8 gasoline motor, or buyers can also choose from the TDV6 and SDV8 diesel engines. Range Rover is currently taking orders for their new SUV model and expects to begin delivering them in early 2013.
Color us intrigued! We do not yet offer any Range Rover models in our fleet of San Francisco luxury SUV rentals, but the new model has certainly earned our full attention. The improved performance and gas mileage make this a very tempting addition to the Cadillacs, Lincolns, Denalis and other luxury sports utility vehicles in our fleet. If you’re thinking about renting a Bay Area luxury SUV for an upcoming trip and want the best selection at the best rates, just give us a call at NLS Limo at 800-339-8936 to reserve yours today!
San Francisco Limousine Rentals Make a Great Gift Idea
About this time every year, we remind our readers that our San Francisco limousine rentals make excellent stocking stuffers for the upcoming holiday season, especially for the hard-to-buy-for people on your Christmas list. Everyone has someone like this on his or her list each year, and agonizing over what to get him or her can suck the joy right out of the Season of Joy. However, we believe that we have the perfect solution! Rent a Bay Area limo, and give them a gift they will never forget. Here are just a few reasons why a limo rental is a great gift idea:
- One size fits all
For intimate groups of two to larger groups of 22 or more, we have a San Francisco limo option that will seat everyone very comfortably. No matter which of our Bay Area limo rentals you choose, you can be sure that they will have a wonderful time and receive our superb customer service. - Limo rentals are more affordable than you think they are
The San Francisco limousine market is very competitive, which is good, as it keeps rental rates low. You can browse the pages of our site for current rate information, and, if you choose an off-peak day or night for the rental, you may be able to take advantage of our specials. - They go well with concert or sporting event tickets
Adding concert or sporting event tickets to the limo experience is a great way to sweeten an already very nice gift. - They are great gifts for your best clients
Many of our clients who buy limo rentals as gifts each year are businesspeople who give limousine experiences to their best clients. If you’re looking for a new way to impress a big account, give us a call at 800-339-8936 and let us take care of the rest! - This is one gift they definitely won’t return
The day after Christmas is when people return ugly sweaters, unneeded foot massagers, unwanted kitchen appliances and many other gifts that they simply don’t want. If you give a San Francisco limo rental, you can be sure that this is one gift that won’t be returned or re-gifted.
If you have one or more persons on your list that make the season of giving into the season of dreading, we believe that we have a solution to that problem. Call us at NLS Limo today at 800-339-8936 to make a San Francisco limousine reservation for them instead! If you have any questions or want to customize a limo experience, just let us know. We’ll be happy to help!
Call 1-800-339-8936 for your free quote
Great customer service, great prices, and always a lot of fun.
I've used Nationwide 3 or 4 times now and have not once been disappointed. Great customer service, great prices, and always a lot of fun. Staff always helps me pick the best option for my group and our budget.