Milano

The choking lead to coughing and for once I felt I was a tuberculosis patient dying out of cough. Fortunate enough were the group members to sit away from me and unfortunate was Carol who had to bear with my coughing as well as in between Indian commentary. There is something about flying that fascinates me and gets the kid in me overwhelmed. While everyone was sleeping in the 2 hours flight I was gazing out at the clouds like there were cotton candy and then I could see the Alps; there was nothing more beautiful than that. (I usually say that a lot of times though I find the next thing more beautiful)
The moment we landed, Mr. Problem had sensed our presence; we went to the car rental company's office to get two car that we booked separately. Everyone was still talking about the short run and that it was the worst so far.
Ernest Hemingway once said that all things truly wicked start from innocence. Here, my group was talking about a horrible start to the trip, and there was 'Mr. Trouble' eagerly waiting for them at the car rental counter. Apparently, neither our pro-American driver checked the terms and conditions of booking for the car nor did anyone riding along with him. [Disclaimer: Don't be too lazy to EVER read the terms and conditions before payment]
The company Hertz who was the supplier of car was unable to give the key and register the car as the driver didn't have a credit card. We were ready with the car that I had booked under Carol's name however we were 9 people with a 5 seats car. If it was in some rural place, few people could enjoy an airy ride by sitting on the roof of the car however it was not. (That could have been adventurous for most of us)
While my American friend was hustling (an american slang experienced in practicality by the gentlemen) with the rental company to get some kind of solution or help. The men were practicing the art of nagging. However, the rental company weren't able to offer any kind of help and the only thing they knew was to keep a person on hold. We had to find a solution as it was more than 2 hours that we were stranded on the airport without food and water. Frustrated Sumit said, " Now, I can surely understand the condition of people in Somalia."
Finally our Kenyan mother came with a solution of changing from a 5 seat car to a mini van which was 9 seats with an extra charge. The money couldn't be refunded by the company as there we icurred our first loss. We left the airport from being a frustrated group of classmates to a would-be positive big family. Well the registered driver was Carol, who hadn't been driving a manual for more than 6-7 years. A lady with troubles of parking a small car was about to drive a mini-van. I believe in GOD and his miracles all that we could say. :p
Three days and three cities, the ultimate fun about to begin.The warmth was been experienced in Milan, what else could go wrong? Was I even allowed to say that ? Was I going to be the kid in the family who gets bullied for most of the blunders; the menace of the family. The story will unfolds its mystery.




Things to remember while renting a car:
  • The insurance for the car is higher than the rent of the car.
  • Many companies only accept Credit cards at the time of registration once you reach Italy, no matter if you made the booking with a debit card. 
  • The credit cards of the driver can only be accepted.
  • The deposit is not informed at the time of booking. (It might range from 250 euros to 900 euros, again credit card will be used for it)
  • GPS can be carried instead of renting it.
  • Italy has a lot of toll charges which can range from 3 euro to 15 euros. 
  • Do not pass through telepass or else you might end up paying up FINE. :P 
  • The fuel charges are moderate.
  • A charge for fuel is also blocked on the credit card, as you get full tank at the time of pick up and should be returned full tank at the time of dropping. 
  • The car parking area is 10 mins walk and can be approached by bus from the airport.
I would love to hear your suggestion or experience on Italian roads. Care to share! :)





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