Tips

A Night Out on the Town

October 21, 2015 by orlan

With the peak visiting season over for Las Vegas, more and more attractions and destinations in Las Vegas will start to offer discounts and lower rates. This is especially desirable for locals who are looking to still have a good time in the city that never sleeps. Since now is the off-season for limousine drivers, if you have been thinking about renting a limo for a special night out, here are some tips.

A Limo Ride Makes a Great Holiday Gift

Giving your loved one a massage is a great gift. While they are getting ready to leave and looking for their keys, a knock at the door. Outside is a limo waiting to take them to their spa day. She would definitely be talking about that special surprise for a long time to come.

Renting a limousine for a special occasion that you create, makes a seemingly simple gift instantly more extravagant. Some of the most appreciative riders that we see are those who were surprised to see a limo pull up to pick them up – or they learned they were riding a limo just hours or minutes before.

Take a Ride on a Weekday

Weekends for limo drivers are like our weekdays. Most limo companies are slower on Monday and Tuesday, unless people are flying into town for a concert or special event. Convention clients are usually coming into town on Tuesday nights or Wednesdays. Most companies offer discounts on prices for weekdays.

The next time you have a mid-week date night, surprise her by picking her up in a limo for dinner. It won’t cost a lot to you but will make a huge impression on your date.

Travel with Five of Your Closest Friends

Most services charge by the car, not by the person. And since limousine companies rent out town cars, limos and party buses all alike, why not invite your friends to join you. You are likely to get the most for your money by filling up the car.

Besides, what fun is experiencing the joy of riding in a limo if you can’t share your happiness with your friends. Give everyone a night of stardom!

Just Remember.. The Price May Not be the Price

When you book a flight, you are charged extra fees and charges. This goes the same when you rent a hotel and are hit with resort fees.

When you call to reserve your limo, you will be asked where you want to go. This is because unless you are booking a tour package, the limousine company needs to know where you are going so that they can calculate the fuel charges. Limo services will estimate the miles and roll the fuel fee into its price quote.

Also, if there happen to be tolls or parking fees, you can expect to pay for these in addition to the rental. Then there is the gratuity for the driver, which is usually included in your quote. Make sure that you clearly ask your limousine company if the price includes everything. Reputable companies will be clear about their fees and explain all charges to you before you are charged.

Lastly, Look for Signs of Trouble

All limousines companies are required to hold the state required insurance as well as each driver has to have proper licensing and training. Here are some things to watch out for the next time you rent a limo in Las Vegas:

Avoid limo companies that require more than a 50% deposit for your rental. USA Limo Guide says “Generally, a deposit of 20-50 percent of the total rental fee is required by credit or debit card.”
Be weary of limo companies that don’t allow you to check out the vehicle before making a deposit. A reputable company will be glad to have you come and inspect its fleet.

Things You Need to Tell Your Limo Company

October 14, 2015 by orlan

When you are looking for a limousine company, whether it is for a wedding, airport transfer, or just a night out on the Las Vegas strip, the company will need certain information to give you an accurate price. There are things that you need to tell your limo company when booking your reservation.

The Type of Event

The limo company that you call will need to know the reason that you are making a reservation. Do you want to hire the company for a wedding, bachelor/bachelorette party, airport ride, night out, birthday or Grand Canyon Tour?

Some rentals have a minimum hour requirement, while others are priced at a set fee. Limo companies also offer special packages.

By knowing exactly what type of special event you are celebrating with a limousine, it will allow the limousine company to better plan your trip.

The Date of the Reservation

The date of your reservation is vital information for the limo company to know when you are making a reservation. The company will also need to know how long you will need the rental, unless you are booking a package or tour.

The date is important even if you are looking for quotes. The limousine company will quote based upon vehicle availability. If you want the Mammoth party bus for a bachelorette party and it is sold out, we may be available to give you a similar option.

You will also need to think about the time that you would like to be at your destination. This will effect the time that you need to be picked up. In a party bus, you may want to be picked up an hour or two in advance so that you can enjoy time on the bus.

How Many Are in Your Party

This number will determine the type of vehicle you will want to rent. While it may sound easy just adding a couple of passenger but you may have to switch from a limo to a party bus with your extra guests. There are two factors you need to keep in mind.

First, how much can the vehicle legally carry? The Nevada Department of Transportation sets strict guidelines and they are strictly enforced. Five Star Limousine strictly enforces set passenger limits.

Secondly, how many people can fit comfortably and still able to enjoy the ride? If you are going to be in a vehicle for a long time on the way to the Grand Canyon, you may want to ask about the suggested passenger count and upgrade to a party bus.

Desired Extras

Different vehicles have different amenities. Consider all the details for your ride. Do you need ice, bottled water, glassware or bubbly? Make sure the limo company can offer what you need.

Age Range of all Passengers

Partying in Las Vegas on a party bus sounds like a lot of fun. However, everyone on board must be 21, with proper identification, in order to have any alcohol in any vehicle of Five Star Limousine.

By having these fact before you call to make a reservation, you will save a lot time.

HELPFUL TIP:

Be prepared to pay if you want to reserve. Most companies require a deposit at the time of reservation in order to hold the vehicle. The balance of the total is due at the start of the ride.

Things to Do in a Limo

September 30, 2015 by Rafik Kasparian

Renting a limousine can be a lot of fun, especially if you have someone to share the experience with. Getting one for a few hours, or even the entire day is actually affordable. Splitting the cost among other people riding (see why you need someone), you might find that there really is no cheaper way to travel in style.

If you are looking for a few things to do in a limo for the day, check out these fun ideas that are sure to be memorable:

Go Sightseeing

Spending some time sightseeing in a limo can be extremely fun. Did you know that there is a whole other city of Las Vegas off of the Las Vegas strip? There is Red Rock Canyon, which is surprisingly only a 20 minute drive. There is also Valley of Fire that has prehistoric roots that is less than an hour away from our beautiful city.

With a limo, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy your trip. There is no need to stop and ask for directions or having to rely on a GPS from a rented vehicle. There really isn’t a more luxurious way to take in the historic landmarks and beautiful scenery.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Showing up in a limo for a night out at a Las Vegas club will get you plenty of attention. Sometimes limo riders will get bumped to the front of the line or receive special treatment at nightclubs, bars, and concerts. The best part? You don’t have to worry about looking for a parking spot once you get there. You also avoid walking a long distance just to get to the line at the front door.

It’s not everyday that you get to show up to places in a limo so take advantage of every chance you get. Invite your friends for even more fun. Enjoy the moment and have a party even when you are at your destination yet!

Ride in Style to the Airport

Limos can make a daunting ride to or from the airport a breeze. With a limo ride instead of driving yourself you:

don’t have to worry about parking your car, or what charges it would bring
have fun on the way to the airport and start your vacation early. You won’t be bothered with traffic or navigating the 215
won’t have to worry about the cost of long-term parking can be extremely expensive at Las Vegas International Airport.
will have plenty of space for your baggage, especially if you are going with a group. Everyone chipping in on a rental will save even more money compared to long term parking.

If you are just arriving to Las Vegas, you don’t have to worry about standing in line and waiting for taxi. With a limousine, a driver meets you at the gate and takes you to wherever you want to go. That easy!

Celebrate a Special Occasion

Birthdays, Homecoming, Prom and just a special occasion are a great reason to rent a limousine. Being able to cruise around the strip and town with a lot of friends is what having a party is all about. Doing it in a limousine where you don’t have to worry about who is going to be the DD or where you are going is even better.

You may not have a specific place in mind to go to celebrate, but with a limo you don’t have to go anywhere. The limo ride itself is a party!

Tips on How to Hire a Limousine

August 19, 2015 by Rafik Kasparian

Hiring a limousine driver in Las Vegas can be a confusing process. With so many options, how do you pick the right one? When hiring a limousine driver, you must look for a few key signs of a good chauffeur.

Licenses & Associations

Every limousine company should have a license number. This license is issued by the State and allow the limo company to operate legally. In addition, a reputable company belong to an association, the NLA being just one example. Finally, check with your local Better Business Bureau for any past complaints or issues.

Experience

Experience is extremely important. Companies that have been in business are usually better than a new start up. However, if you do run into a new business, ask about the operator’s experience. Some of the best limousine companies are relatively new but are operated by managers and drivers that have years of limousine experience.

Insurance

Every commercial vehicle should have commercial insurance. Each states requirements for driver will vary. Most limousine companies have to keep more coverage than passenger vehicles.

References and Reviews

Check out web review sites like Yelp or Angie’s List. The best way to learn about a company is to hear from the former customers. They will give a non-biased insight to the service and what you can expect to experience.

Fleet

There are an abundance of choices for vehicle types, stretch limos, party buses, Hummers, and SUVs. Five Star Limousine has a wide variety of fleet vehicles for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for a little one on one with your loved one, or to throw a bachelorette party, we’ve got you covered.

In Person Review

If you are planning on renting a limousine for a special event like a wedding or prom, take some time and see the vehicle you’re renting in person. Nothing is more debilitating your perfect night than getting picked up in an old limousine or a worn and tired party bus. You can get an idea about the vehicle from pictures online, but confirm that the transportation you expect is the transportation your are getting.

Cost

Price is obviously a factor. Limousine companies can sometimes have hidden fees that are in addition to your base rate. You will think the price is one thing but then with fuel surcharges, administrative costs and gratuity for the driver, your bill comes out to be 25% hiring than your quote. Make sure that you discuss any surcharges or gratuities prior to renting a limo in Las Vegas.

Safety

Safety is the last on our list but it is definitely our number one concern at Five Star Limousine. Double check to make sure that a company has valid certification. Do they have liability insurance? Are the driver professionally trained? Are the vehicles DOT inspected and approved?

While renting a limousine is an experience that everyone should experience at least once in their life, renting a limo can seem difficult and daunting. Five Star Limousine wants to take the guess work out of your rental. Contact our office and see what vehicles we have available for your special event.