Pinnacle National Park in California officially became the nation’s 59^th national park this week. After legislation by Congress passed late 2012, President Obama signed the park into law January 10, 2013 and now it is official to the public. Already a celebrated tourist destination formerly known as Pinnacles National Monument, the park hosts an array of activities from rock climbing to volcanic landscapes. The elevation from National Monument to National Park signifies a larger umbrella of protection for the area. A National Monument focuses on preserving one nationally significant resource, while a National Park protects a variety or resources and encompasses a larger area according to the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Pinnacle is the ninth location in California to get granted Park status. This area’s history began back in 1908 with President Roosevelt labeling it a national monument to protect its rock formations. Rock formations that bring over 300,000 visitors annually to rock climb. These rock formations are from archaic volcanic fields and offers over 30 miles of rock formations to climb and hike through. The 27,000 acre park is 2 hours south of San Francisco and 1 and ½ hours south of San Jose just east of Salinas Valley.

The park itself gains its name from the spires of volcanic rock, boulders and caves that scatter the park. The fault lines and earthquakes of California have driven these pinnacles up over the past couple hundred years. But the park also plays home to large winged population…the California condor. Currently labeled as an endangered species it is one of 32 and by far the largest bird that occupies this park. The park is a safe haven for this endangered species, providing safe grounds for roosting far from power lines and populated trails.

The park is making other headlines as well…documentary film maker Ken Burns and various other natural conservatives have shifted their attention towards the park. Many of them citing the historical context behind the parks importance, a place that has been home to Native Americans, Spanish settlers, Americans during the westward movement and now present day American rock climbers.

In any event the park offers a Mediterranean climate much like most of southern California. Winters are cold and summers are hot with temperatures reaching the 100’s F. If you plan on heading to the park in summer make sure and pack water and some sunscreen for your hike or climb. Fox San Francisco and Fox San Jose both offer great Jeep’s to pack your climb gear and head into Pinnacle with.

January is the month to look out onto new horizons…set a new goal and plan a long put off vacation. Where are those places that could use a little vacation love? Offer a bit more than just a place to get away from home for the week? Here are 5 locations often over looked for great family vacations….

• Washington, DC – The nation’s capital. Full of rich history and structures that represent the foundation of the USA. It is often quoted as one of the most family friendly cities in the US. Museums throughout the city have specific attractions for all age groups of children. The National Children’s Museum has a wide variety of exhibits for kids ages 3 and up.

• Las Vegas, NV – Who says Vegas, is only for adults…This upcoming February the Lied Children’s Museum is reinventing itself under the new name Discovery Children’s Museum and moving to the Smith Center for Preforming Arts. With interactive stations and an entirely redesigned exhibit system is great for kids. The Nevada State Museum also reopened with new bike and hiking trails for those outdoorsy families. Check out FOX LAS (Las Vegas) for awesome deals.

• Sonoma County, CA – Another spot often associated with grownups is changing things up. Family owned and operated farms are making great strives to include the kids as part of the family vacations. Certain farms have tours that include milking cows, petting goats and even making handmade ice-cream. Other attractions include day pools and a safari park in Sonoma, not to mention just a short drive from San Francisco. Check out FOX SFO (San Francisco) for affordable rates.

• Cape Cod, MA – More of a long term option for the families seeking a different beach experience. The beach offers all the usual fun, sand castles to body surfing, but the real treat lies with in the Atlantic waters. This city plays host to some of the best whale watching trips to see humpbacks. Rental homes are available for affordable and varying date ranges.

•   Myrtle Beach, SC – A wide variety of adventure awaits this beach city in South Carolina. With over 50 mini-golf courses to historic battleships to visit this is a vacation destination to pre-plan. The Family Kingdom Amusement Park and Ocean Front Water Park are great summer attractions for the whole family. For those without a fear of heights don’t forget to check out the 200 ft. sky wheel. The possibilities are endless.  Check out one of FOX’s Affiliates out of Myrtle Beach for a car on your next visit, Fox – Myrtle Beach Affiliate.

2013 is about change and new exploration. Take a trip of the normal path of family vacations and try a new destination…you might just find somewhere to visit year after year. For all of our Fox locations and lowest rates please visit Fox Rent A Car Website www.foxrentacar.com.

As the holiday season fast approaches holiday travel is drawing ever closer. Over the next few weeks look for things to keep you and your family occupied whether it be in a road trip…flight…or what ever other means of travel we may come across! If you have suggestions please send them in! Customer feed back and stories are something we value and love to share. When December kicks off Fox will play host to a photo and holiday photo contest! Details to come soon…keep in mind…activities, decorations, family and travel are the themes. Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are ready to start the count down to 2013…a new year full of new possibility, travel and exciting news from Fox.

Just in case you get stuck in one of those situations while in your rental car, here is a bit of information from Fox…

Roadside Assistance FOX is pleased to offer roadside assistance in the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming only. Simply call the toll-free emergency roadside service number located on your FOX Rental agreement holder. Toll Free number 1(877) 936-9349

Child Safety Seats In California - State laws require children eight years of age or younger less than 80 pounds in weight to be in a child restraint device. In Arizona, children five years of age or younger must be in a child restraint device. Driver with children must refer to the current state and city law regarding child passenger safety laws. There is an USD/8.99 per day fee for child seats. If the seat is not returned in the same condition, less normal wear and tear as received, a cleaning fee will be assessed. If the seat is damaged a repair or replacement charge will be applied.

Hand control vehicles –  FOX Rent a Car locations provide rental services to accommodate all customers and comply with the stipulations of the Americans With Disabilities Act. Please call our toll free number 800-225-4369 and speak to a Customer Service Representative for any special equipment or requests. Reasonable advance notice is required, our usual need is 72 hours but this period may vary.

XM Radio -  Some models such as Ford Taurus, Ford Focus, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Tahoe and Hyundai Elantra may be available with free XM Satellite Radio. Please ask for details at the rental counter.

Tomorrow check out the Fox blog to learn about our rules when renting from any of our corporate locations nationwide! Any questions please email customerservice@foxrentacar.com.

As the USA gets ready to dawn its Red, White and Blue for Independence Day, the history and story behind such an important day in American culture always outshines the little details. Test yourself and see if you know these facts about America’s Birthday…

• May 1776
Delegates were sent to the second continental congress. Finally after it was realized England would not change in June 1776 the plans for a Declaration of Independence began to take shape.

• June 28, 1776
Thomas Jefferson presents the 1st draft of the Declaration to congress. Fun Fact  The committee that wrote the Declaration included… John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Philip Livingston and Roger Sherman

• May/June 1776
During these months Betsy Ross sewed the 1st American Flag for the Congressional Congress.

• July 8, 1776
The first day Independence Day was actually celebrated in Philadelphia. Also the day the liberty bell rang from Independence Hall.

• July 14, 1776
The National Flag was adopted and defined to signify the original 13 colonies.

These were but a few of the monumental events that shaped America into the country it is today. Tomorrow millions of Americans will celebrate Independence day across the country. Tradition has become a major part of American life…what are your 4th of July traditions? Share with us below…

In today’s economy planning a vacation may seems like a luxury that is out of reach. With the rush and headache of so much to do in so little time a vacation can be beneficial both mentally and physically. Planning and budgeting can get you on a much needed break and not worrying about the bank. Here are a few simple ways to get started.

1. Save, Save, Save
Before you even begin to plan where you may want to escape to start saving. Budgets are a great way to evaluate where excess money is being spent and where you can cut back and stash away a few extra dollars. A minor amount like that $50 a week you might spend at Starbucks (yes it does add up) comes to $600 dollars for the year you can hide away in a vacation fund. Even opening a separate account just for a vacation fund will keep you from spending that money for your next getaway.

2. Location is key…
Picking a spot can make or break a vacation budget. Being flexible and choosing somewhere more off the beaten path can prove to benefit your next stay away from home in more ways than one. Spots with less tourism tend to offer cheaper events, things to do and lodging.

3. Travel Seasons
Save up to 50 percent or more on peak season prices by traveling when tourist traffic is at its lowest. Depending again on location summer vs. winter may be the time to travel due to peak season prices. Hotels, restaurants and stores are more eager for your business during those times when fewer people are traveling.

4. Deals, Discounts and Coupons
Travel discount and deal sites such as Groupon Getaways, Living Social Escapes and TravelZoo are the new wave of the future! But don’t let the bargains blind you: always read the fine print regarding extra fees, blackout dates, expirations and other terms. These are a great way to cut costs nearly in half!

5. Dine different.
If you’re traveling by car or renting one from Fox, and you have access to a cooler, you can stock up on grab-and-go foods for breakfast and lunch. Preparing food yourself can save money all the way around. Also try exchanging meals, for instance dinner for lunch and lunch for dinner. Often time dinner costs the most while traveling…by going out to lunch and making dinner you will have extra cash for other festivities on your getaway.

6. Travel club bonuses.
The rewards outweigh the fees for travel clubs like AAA. Money saved thanks to discounted pricing at hotels, restaurants, car rental agencies and more. The membership may also work in places around your home town, not during your vacation.

7. Staycation…the new trend.
Book a room in your home town or city and just slip away from home for a day or two. Look into events like a zoo or amusement park a short drive away. There is no harm in letting someone else make your bed in the morning at a hotel not far from home. It can often be just the little amount of R&R needed to get you back on your feet and won’t hurt your wallet quite as much as a Destination Getaway.

Letting money get the best of you on a vacation isn’t the goal…getting the best of your money is. Research, plan and execute these tips and coast into your next get away. Fox’s affordable prices on car rentals along with our blog tips are a great place to begin this research. Share your suggestions with us in the comment box below!

Gas prices are like those pesky beach balls you see all at all the California Beach’s…bouncing higher and lower on a daily basis. How do we get the most out of each tank? What are tips to keep fuel effiency up and my wallet a bit fuller as well? Follow these 10 tips to safe gas will help you get a better gas mileage while saving money in the process…

Maintenance is key…
A car just like every well-oiled machine needs a tune up every now and then. In other words it needs to be taken care of. Simple things like an oil change are quick and easy. Try and remember every 3,000 miles change the oil…this helps not only keep the engine at top efficiency but you from having to worry down the road. Just like in a house, the air filter of a car is important! The more grime and build up the harder the car has to work to push the air through the filter…meaning more gas! The filter can be cheap and easy to change. These and numerous other quick maintenance tips can keep you at peak performance.

It’s summer sunny and time to roll down those windows!
Roll down your windows when the heat is bearable. Rely on A/C only on those extremely hot days. But be aware, AC will actually be more fuel efficient while driving over 55pmh. This can be due to air drag when windows are rolled down and the car is traveling at higher speeds…working against you. In the city, near the beach or cruising to the store keep your windows down and the strain on your engine to a minimum. Better gas mileage and more money to spend on your vacation.

Think Green…both for your health and the environment:
Driving to things with in walking, biking or running distance can be one of the easiest ways to waste gas. While you not use gas to get there then you have to look for parking. Even if you must drive don’t circle the parking lot looking for the closest parking…park a little ways away and walk!

The Vortex we call a trunk…
More weight equal more of a strain…keep this in mind when you are putting things in your trunk. An easy way to keep those extra’s out of the trunk is to remind yourself transportation…not storage. A trick of mine is carrying everything in my trunk into my house and back…if it’s too heavy or to much work…think about what your car is having to do with you as additional cargo. Keep those dollars from floating away and lighten your load.

Sun…friend? More like foe!
The sun heats up your car and causes the evaporation of  liquids – and what is gas? A liquid! Find a spot in the shade, walking that little extra distance will keep your car cool and gas in the tank. Not to mention this will keep your car cooler…no one enjoys that burn of the seats after getting in a hot car.  And remember back to the earlier point about A/C…maybe it won’t be needed after a long park in the shade.

Saving gas is impacted by every decision we make while driving; being aware of these choices mean savings for you. Fox Rent A Car supports Green Driving and savings. If you have more advice on how to save gas, let us know and we will add it to our list!

Regardless of whether you have a rental, a lease or you own your own car keeping it safe and protected is normally a top concern. As criminals become more and more advanced in working their way around anti-theft devices there are a few tried and true techniques still available for your use. Ranging from cheaper and simple to high tech and complicated these antitheft systems should detour any thief from driving away in your car.

1. The most well know and proven would be the Steering wheel lock or club. Designed to be locked around the steering wheel in an attempt to prevent the car from being able to turn. Unless the thief plans on driving straight the whole get away this car will be going nowhere.

2. Locks, Locks and more Locks. Often times putting locks on things like the hood, tire, gearshift, ignition and crook locks all can be strategically placed throughout the vehicle. While some of these can be more of a hindrance on a daily basis (tire locks), others are simply and easy to use. For instance a hood lock prevents your car from being pieced off and prevents the thief from gaining access to the battery.

3. Alarms come preinstalled on most of today’s vehicles and often are displayed somewhere near or around to top of the console. These are often effective in drawing attention to a car being broken into and or stolen. While there are ways around an alarm the steps a thief must take to get there are often not worth the risk.

4. The last, most intricate and effective out of all the antitheft devices is a vehicle recovery and tracking system. LoJack is recognized as the leader in this new technology. Working with law enforcement LoJack activates a hidden transmitter. This transmitter is hidden even from you. It has a 90% return rate. LoJack is affordable and even offers contest and promotions like the one below. Check it out for a chance to enter and win.

LoJack Contest Giveaway

For the peace of mind and the prevention of a headache look into employing one or more of these anti-theft systems, that can be inexpensive and cost effective. Even on the costlier options like, LoJack there are numerous ways to get a discount or even win a free system as discussed above. Protect what is your and prevent what can be prevented.

Florida is new territory for Fox Rent a Car. A total of four new locations will officially have opened by tomorrow June 7, 2012. Fox began squeezing into the Orange state January of 2012. Over the short course of 6 months, Orlando, Tampa, Miami and finally Fort Lauderdale play host to Fox. Florida is known for a wide variety of vacation activities. In case you didn’t know…each of these four cities offer something specific and exciting for your next vacation…

1. Orlando, FL. Most known for its outrageous and extensive theme park attractions, Orlando is the perfect getaway for the family vacation. Orlando also offers a wide range of events throughout the year. All of these events and more can be found at the City of Orlando’s website.

2. Tampa, FL. The second city Fox sprouted up in…this city is geared more toward that adult vacation getaway. Southwest of Orlando, Tampa is ranked about the 50th largest city in the nation. Busy with night life, Florida’s NFL team and Animal attractions (Lowry Zoo and Busch Gardens).

3. Miami, FL. Our most southern location in Florida, Miami is known for its beaches and nightlife. Labeled the “Magic City”, for its food, clubs and exotics atmosphere. A secret hint …check out hidden gems that the locals know about by checking out the city website! Fun fact about this city… Rollerbladers rolling along the beach in Miami were the inspiration for the very first ATM machine!

4. Fort Lauderdale, FL. The last installment of the Florida expansion through Fox. With 185 miles of local waterways, Fort Lauderdale is nicknamed the “Venice of America”. Holding that city charm and relaxing air between Miami’s roaring night life and Palm Beach’s radiating beaches, this is the place to slip of for a hidden escape.

The fun never ends in Florida…here are some funny state laws that are still on the books…something to laugh about while you make your travel plans….it is illegal for an unmarried woman to parachute on Sundays, you cannot skateboard in the state of Florida without a license, can you believe it is illegal for anyone in a swimsuit to sing in public (really, really!!!), you can actually get a burning fine for falling asleep under a salon hair dryer, and if you decide to ride an elephant instead of renting a Fox car, you are subject to the same parking fines as a vehicle (we really did not make this up- check the internet!!)

Each of the four cities Fox has taken root in hold special pieces of Florida life. Fox’s entrance into the Florida travel industry benefits both business and vacation travelers. With low rates, new cars and friendly service Fox hopes to make Florida just another member of the Fox family.

Fox is taking part in the Long Beach Aids walk this Saturday June 2, 2012. All the details for the event can be found here… http://aidswalklb.org/

This is how Fox is getting involved…

1. A donation is being made from Fox towards the Aids walk.
2. In addition we will match 50% of the donations gathered by family and friends of the Fox team taking place in the walk.
3. Currently we have 8 to 10 employees and family of employees taking part in the walk.
4. Come out and show support for Fox and the AIDS walk this Saturday.

Community and charity events such as this define Fox as a family based company. We look for ways to immerse our company and its employees in giving back to you our customers through the local community. If you happen to see an event in any one of our city locations email in to Fox at marketing@foxrentacar.com. Your input into how we impact the community makes a difference. Thank you for your support and we look forward to the walk!