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.

We are focusing on one place in particular this positing that was found up in Seattle, WA. This would be a great stop for your and your loved on this Valentine’s Day…get out, explore and enjoy!

Pike Place Market in Seattle is a operating farmer’s market that has been around for more than a 100 years. Founded in 1907 on August 17^th, this has been a place for farmers, craftsmen and merchants to share their wares with willing customers who swarm over the fresh produce. There are also handmade crafts and other interesting artifacts that one gets to see as one walks along this market that overlooks the Elliott Bay waterfront. The location and the variety that the marketplace presents, makes it a unique shopping, dining and entertainment experience.

Main Attractions in Pike Place Market, Seattle

One of the most popular attractions of the Pike Place Market is the Pike Place Fish Market where you can literally see flying fish as the employees toss large salmons and other fish to each other for preparation as the order is placed.

You might also want to check out the first Starbucks Coffee Store that was founded in 1971. While it was located at 2000 Western Avenue initially, it was moved to 1912 Pike Place in 1977. But it has been operational in this location ever since.

While you are in the Pike Place market, make sure that you check out the unofficial mascot of the place – a 550 pound bronze piggy bank. The mascot is called Rachael and was designed by local artist Georgia Gerber. The mascot is also used for the theme for the Pigs on Parade that was first held in 2001.

As you take a closer look at the wares and the crafts, do not miss out on the street entertainers. Pike place Market is known for its buskers. Some of the performers here have even received acknowledgement and fame.

Do not forget to pick some delectable handmade cheese from the Beecher’s Handmade Cheese shop or take back some Balsamic Vinegar from the DeLaurenti Specialty Food & Wine place. The flower market and the fruits place provide a range that you would never have seen before in one place. Dilettante Chocolates in First Avenue is also a must visit for some awesome truffles and chocolate sauces.

Pike Place Market, Seattle: When to Go

The Pike Place Market is open every day of the week. It operates between 10am and 6pm from Monday to Saturday and between 11am to 5pm on Sundays. On some summer days when the farming season is in full swing, the markets open early at around 8am. How about this Valentine’s Day to take your sweetie! And don’t forget Fox – Seattle is the perfect place to pick up your ride to get there!

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.

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!

With vacation, school out and the family ready for a little Rest and Relaxation, there are a couple of things to remember when packing the car for the next road trip. In the rush of today’s chaotic lifestyle, the minor details are often brushed aside, yet often the most important. These items fall under safety, comfort and necessity.
1. Bluetooth or hands free headset – If your car or rental doesn’t have it installed. With an increase number of drivers and things to do in the car while driving, this is a must and required by law. Having both hands on the wheel at all times prevents accidents and unforeseen mistakes while driving.
2. Power inverter…in case that you need that extra charge on your laptop or forgot the auto charger for your cell phone. These are an easy purchase and allow you to use AC plugs in the car. They range in size and price. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the price the more current the unit supports and can deliver to your electronics.
3. Road side flares. – There can be a heavy amount of traffic whizzing by just when you happened to get a flat tire. The last thing anyone wants to deal with is the potential of an accident. Putting flares in the road either traditional, or the newest led flares, warn other drivers to slow and take caution when passing your disabled vehicle.
4. Batteries! – These little pests can make or break your next adventure. The camera, the flashlight or the hand held games to keep the kids at bay all need them. Save time and effort by packing them beforehand. They are often costly and, depending on where you are, hard to find.
5. Oil, Oil, Oil…- It makes no difference if you are renting or you have your own car, oil is a must. Especially when on the road for extended periods of time, engines eat up oil, leaving you with that pesky little red light indicator. Plan ahead before you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere with no oil.
Each of these tips may seem self-explanatory and somewhat expected when planning your next road trip. But the rush and excitement of getting on the road often prevents these otherwise minor details from making it in the car. Instead of the frustration and ‘shoulda, coulda, woulda…’ make your list, check it twice and put on cruise control.

With summer fast approaching road trips will increase as Americans jump into vacation season. Out of the numerous destinations around the country Utah holds a hidden gem, Salt Lake City. Often known for hosting the winter Olympics in 2002 the city hosts a number of different venues. Ranging from historical sites to natures landscapes here are a few well known and lesser known spots to check out on your next drive through Salt Lake City.

1. Outdoor Beauty and escape:
Salt Lake is known for rich and vast landscapes, the gardens and hiking trails stretch in and around the city. Red Butte Gardens, which are part of the University of Utah’s campus ground, is home to a serene garden with over 150 acres to explore. City Creek Canyon hosts shaded running paths and hiking trails where the flora and fauna of the natural landscape are all around.
Both of these locations are a short drive from city center.

2. Historical Journey:
The museums of Salt Lake City are home to a wide array of historical subjects in American History. The Pioneer Memorial Museum gives visitors the chance to track and learn about the early American settlers. The city also provides a Natural History Museum as well as multiple museums about the states strong religious history.

3. Digging up the past:
Family History is important to understanding and appreciating your past. Salt Lake may be the place to visit if you’re looking for answers to that elusive family past. The Family History Library is the world’s largest collection of genealogical information in the world. Allowing its visitors to immerse themselves in their families past. Maybe you really are royalty…this would be the place to find out.

4. Scenic Summer Drives:
Lastly Salt Lake City plays host too many scenic drive routes. These vary from paved roads to rough roads and can be 45 minutes up to 3 hours in length. The drives take you through the Wasatch Mountains surrounding Salt Lake City. While the drives during the fall reflect the changing colors in leaves summer is the perfect weather for a convertible or SUV. Information about all of these routes can be found below or by inquiring at our Salt Lake City Fox location.

Salt Lake City could be your next destination for your family road trip or summer vacation. Whether its history or the beauty of the landscape its sure offer an enjoyable time. Make sure and check out Fox for our summer Hot! Deals for a convertible or SUV to explore Salt Lake. American history and American Beauty await you in majestic Salt Lake City, Utah.

Beautiful rolling hills, a variety of delicious California wines and a historic train ride all captured on this video for the Fox Road Trip.

About Fox Rent A Car

Fox Rent A Car, your discount car rental company, has been providing excellent customer service along with low rates for rental cars since its founding in 1989. Today, our success in these areas has enabled us to develop into the largest independent car rentals company headquartered in California. You will find Fox Car Rental offices conveniently located at major airports throughout the world.

Relive the first half of the Fox Road Trip with these funny and breathtaking road trip videos.

Los Angeles, San Diego and Matt vs. the Mechanical Bull

A Day With Rick and Shamu

The Clarendon Hotel in Phoenix

Amazing Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hot Air Expeditions