Here provides some useful information for overseas visitors on car and
bicycle rentals to make their stay here more convenient.
Car rental service:
There are many car rental companies in Beijing. The tariff varies depending
on what kind of car you choose. In addition, some companies may set a minimum
and maximum rental period.
According to a New Concept Today employee, the car rental firm offers its
cheapest model at 329 yuan (48 U.S. dollars) a day. The monthly rate is 5,500
yuan.
Renting a car, however, could be complicated for overseas visitors. A
driver's license issued by the Beijing traffic management bureau, a visa and ID
card are all required to rent a car. A safer and easier bet is to rent a car
with a local driver or better, a taxi.
From July 20 to September 20, Beijing will implement traffic control by odd
and even license plate numbers. So even if you rent a car, you could only enjoy
half the rental period while paying the full rate. In addition, a large rental
deposit is demanded by companies.
Some rental companies: China Auto Rental: 5820-9988 New Concept Today:
5166-0900 or 800-810-9001
Bicycle rental:
Bicycle rentals have the advantage of a lower prices and flexibility. It is
also a healthy activity. If you yearn for a taste of Beijing's hutongs (narrow
lanes), it's an easier and quicker prospect to see them on two wheels than by
foot.
The rental procedure is also simple. Locals and overseas visitors alike,
just place a deposit for the bike and you are off.
Dependent on the bicycle type, there are different standards for deposits
and daily rental fees. The highest deposit for electric bikes or mountain bikes
is 1,000 yuan. Generally you can rent a mountain bike or an electric bike for
less than 100 yuan a day (eight hours). In most cases, you can rent a common
bike at 5 yuan per hour or 20 yuan for a day.
Before the Olympics starts, Beijing will set up more than 100 bike rental
outlets near subway stations, commercial streets, hotels and office buildings,
providing city-wide, easy-rental, easy-return services.
For more information, please dial the hotlines 400-896-5917 or
800-810-5917.
(Source: chinaculture.org)
