Archive for May, 2010

Important Links and Information For The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport

If you’ve ever been to the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia, it only took one visit to realize that it really is one of the busiest airports in the world. Because of its central location, it is one of the most common connection airports in the United States and the world. Over 250,000 people per day fly in and out of this airport, and this can make it a very confusing and frustrating experience if you’re not used to going through big airports. Here are some important links and information for you to have when planning your trip to Atlanta.

Flight Information

If you need to track a flight or make sure a flight is on schedule, click here. Flights are delayed and cancelled all the time in Atlanta, so it’s good to be prepared and check your flight or the flight of someone you are picking up before you visit the airport.

TSA Security

You’ll find some quick tips here for getting through security quickly and efficiently, plus there’s a tracker that estimates the wait times at the security checkpoints so you have an idea of how much time you need to allow to get through security and make your flight.


Click here for a list of prohibited carry-on items

Rental Car Center

This newly opened rental car facility is on the airport property, and it’s just a short sky train ride away. Here’s the link for all of the information regarding the new rental car facility where you’ll find discount rental cars from E-Z Rent-A-Car.

Terminal Maps

Go to this page for all of the terminal maps so you can be prepared once you get inside the airport and know where you’re going! All of the maps are downloadable so you can print them out and take them with you.

Wireless Internet

It’s not free in the Atlanta Airport, you’ll have to pay a fee, but you can access it virtually anywhere in the airport. All you do is click on your Wi-Fi network settings and connect to the ATL-WIFI SSID. Then, open up a web browser and a splash page will come up for the airport connection manager. You’ll have five options to connect:

  1. Boingo
  2. T-Mobile
  3. Advanced Wireless Group (AWG)
  4. AccessAnyplace
  5. Opti-Fi

Choose which one you want, pre-pay, and you’re ready to go. This may be worth it to a business traveler who has a long layover, which is common when connecting at this airport.

Pet Assistance

To accommodate passengers’ pets and guide dogs, Hartsfield-Jackson has a Poochie Park located on the lower level of Terminal North outside door LN2 to the right of the building. Owners can take animals to this grassy area and allow pets to relieve themselves. Contact your airlines directly for specific directions and guidelines for transporting pets with you.

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Travel Comments 1 May 26th, 2010

Best Disney Resorts in Orlando, Florida

The Grand Floridian

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a Victorian-style Disney Deluxe Resort distinguished as the flagship hotel of Walt Disney World Resort and offering world-class dining, entertainment and luxurious accommodations in its 6 striking red-gabled buildings. This magnificent hotel sits along the white-sand shores of Seven Seas Lagoon. This is THE premier hotels on the the Disney World property, and if you want a truly magical experience during your vacation in Orlando, this is the place to stay. The price ranges from $200 to $400 a night, depending on the season, but it’s well worth it.

The Fort Wilderness Lodge

You won’t be doing any roughing it in this lodge! Fort Wilderness is one of the first resort and campgrounds areas built when Disney World was built, and it continues to be one of the most popular places to stay at Disney in Orlando. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, inspired by the Great American Northwest National Park lodges from the turn of the 20th century, is an architecturally grand Disney Deluxe Resort hotel honoring American craftsmanship and artistry, and celebrating the majesty of the unspoiled wilderness. The theme of being in harmony with nature winds through the lodge—inside and out. Authentic decor and genuine artifacts pay homage to ancient Native American cultures and the pioneering spirit of early American explorers.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort: The white sandy beaches and large water slide complex of Disney’s Beach Club are situated on a lake adjacent to the Epcot theme park. Disney’s Beach Club has a more casual decor than its sister resort, Disney’s Yacht Club. You’ll also spend less!

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

The Disney Boardwalk is often overshadowed by Downtown Disney as a place to hang out, but it’s definitely a diamond in the rough on the Disney property. The Boardwalk is a destination all to itself, with restaurants, clubs, midway games and a great view. The pool is themed to a 1930s Atlantic seacoast resort, with a roller coaster-style water slide ending in a giant clown face. There is also a carousel pool bar and whimsical elephant fountains. A boat ferries guests to nearby Epcot and MGM theme parks. You’ll love hanging out at the ESPN club, the piano bar, and other fine dining restaurants.

E-Z Rent-A-Car is dedicated to helping you get where you need to go in Orlando. We have hundreds of discount rental cars, and our largest fleet is located in the Orlando International Airport. If you’re traveling to Disney or other attractions in Orlando, we’re conveniently located in-terminal at the airport.

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Hotels Comments 0 May 24th, 2010

Atlanta’s Best Fast Food Restaurants

Eating fast food isn’t the best thing for your health, but it’s not a big deal if you indulge in it on a rare occasion, and Atlanta has some GREAT fast food options. Sometimes, there’s just no better comfort food than a great hamburger and fries or some great chicken nuggets. So, if you’re in Atlanta, you need a quick bite to eat, and you want a great experience, check out these famous fast food restaurants:

best fast food restaurants

The Varsity

You’ll find The Varsity right next to the Georgia Tech campus, and it’s a staple for college students who have the late-night munchies. The food won’t blow you away, but if you want a quality burger and fries for CHEAP, this is the place. The milkshakes are GREAT, too. You’ll love the throw-back style with Atlanta nostalgia everywhere. Study the menu before getting in line—the Varsity has its own menu shorthand. A “naked dog” is a Varsity signature hot dog without chili; a “bag of rags” is a bag of potato chips and an “FO” is an orange-flavored, slushy milk shake.

Chick-fil-A

If you live out west or up north, you may not be familiar with Chick-fil-A, but ask anyone from the southwest or southeast, and they’ll tell you that Chick-fil-A is one of the best, most quality quick-serve restaurants you’ll ever visit. They pride themselves to have outstanding customer service with a southern charm. Since they originated in Atlanta, you’ll find menu items with Southern flavor such as the cole slaw, lemon pie, and thick, hand-spun milkshakes. Their motto is that they didn’t invent chicken, just the chicken sandwich, and it’s probably true, because it’s such a great chicken sandwich. For a better experience, visit the original Chick-fil-A in Hapeville, Georgia or one of their “Dwarf Houses”.

Five Guys Famous Burgers

If you’re a burger connoisseur, then you gotta try Five Guys. They’re based out of Washington D.C., but they’ve expanded throughout the Southeast. The burgers are quality, and all of the toppings are free, including grilled onions and mushrooms! While you’re waiting for your burger, grab some peanuts and have fun throwing the shells on the floor!

Willy’s Mexicana Grill

Quick-serve Mexican and burrito restaurants have exploded over the past 5 years with the rapid growth of Moe’s and Chipotle. If you want a great alternative to the big chains, try out Willy’s in Atlanta. The ingredients are always fresh and it has a college feel with mature tastes!

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Travel Comments 0 May 21st, 2010

2010 Summer Events In Atlanta, Georgia

Will you be in Atlanta this summer? If so, there’s ALWAYS something going on in HOT-lanta, so check out these events if you’re vacationing in Atlanta or there on business.

centennial park atlanta

Centennial Olympic Park Fourth of July – located between Baker Street and Techwood Drive is the site of Atlanta’s daylong Independence Day celebration. Live Music and entertainment start in the afternoon and end with a huge Fireworks Display choreographed to a Musical Score. Thousands of people turn out, but you can also view the fireworks from a variety of less crowded spots nearby. Festivities begin at 4:30 PM with the fireworks show at 9:30 PM.

Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week (July 26th – August 9th) – Now in its fourth year, Restaurant Week showcases many of downtown Atlanta’s finest restaurants with each offering special dining promotions of three-course dinners for $25.00 per person ( not including tip & tax ). Atlanta Restaurant Week models similar events held in New York, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington DC.

In addition to enjoying unbelievable cuisine, Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week also offers you the chance to enjoy art, live music, and a wide assortment of other Festive Activities. Participating restaurants include: Legal Sea Foods, 30 Tables, Avanzare, and more

Vans Warped Tour (July 26th) – Are you into the punk rock scene? Then, this concert festival is where you need to be! It’s being held at the Aaron’s Amphitheater in Lakewood. It includes such popular punk rock bands such as Reel Big Fish, Pennywise, and Sum 41.

National Black Arts Festival (July 14th to July 18th) – The NBAF salutes new voices of creativity by showcasing the exciting, artistic movement of the next generation and artists cutting the edges of tradition and culture. Dance, theatre, music, visual arts, new media, spoken and written word, and conversations all provide extraordinary opportunities for this next wave of history makers to share their unique, creative expression.

Do you need a cheap rental car to get around in Atlanta? E-Z Rent-A-Car has recently moved into Hartsfield-Jackson airport’s brand new rental car facility, making it even more convenient to pick up a discount rental car. Check out our prices in Atlanta!

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Uncategorized Comments 0 May 18th, 2010

5 Best Hotels in Atlanta, Georgia

best hotels in atlantaHotels can be hit or miss, and personal recommendations are always the best way to find a good hotel. In Atlanta, you have the pick of whatever hotel you want. There are business hotels, romantic hotels, value hotels, and bed and breakfasts. There’s nothing worse than having a bad hotel experience when you’re vacationing or going on a business trip. When renting a discount rental car in Atlanta, we want to make sure that you have the best experience possible, and part of that is finding the right hotel! We’ve put together a small list of different types of hotels that we think are the best bet for the money.

The Four Seasons Atlanta

For those of you where money is no object, your best hotel experience will come at the Four Seasons in Atlanta. With its exceptionally attentive staff, this neo-classical tower is all about personal details. For example, fresh flowers and luxurious linen towels are standard in the guest rooms. And tech travelers can enjoy laptop and pager rental, as well as on-the-go meals prepared by room service. Children receive a gift on arrival, and infant supplies are available. Video games, board games, movies and tours to nearby attractions appeal to parents on holiday with their kids. Adults will also enjoy little pleasures, such as marble baths furnished with upscale accessories, scales and soft terry robes. Even pets get singular treatment here. The spa at the Four Seasons is world-class, and you’ll find everything you need in its 14,000 square foot spa facility. Need we say more?

75 14th St. NE (W. Peachtree St.)
Atlanta, GA 30309
404-881-9898

The Georgian Terrace

If you’re looking for a touch of both local and all-American history, this is the place to stay. Tallulah Bankhead, Calvin Coolidge and Charles Lindbergh all slept here. But perhaps the most significant guests were Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh. Built in 1911 and restored in 2001, this hotel is listed on the National Registry. Its original rounded bedrooms have been updated with modem lines and full kitchen amenities. You’ll feel like you’re getting a taste of old Atlanta while being close to all of the major attractions of downtown Atlanta, including the Georgia Aquarium, The Georgia Dome, The CNN Center, and the Atlanta Underground.

659 Peachtree St. (Ponce de Leon Ave.)
Atlanta, GA 30308
404-897-1991

InterContinental Buckhead

No luxury is spared in this awesome designed-for-comfort property. Opened in 2004, the Intercontinental Buckhead raises the bar on what constitutes pampering. Each property from this hotel group embraces its local culture, and this one is no exception, as work by local artists are on the walls, and the Garden theme repeats in fabrics and finishes. If you’re vacationing and you want a true southern hospitality experience, this is the hotel for you!

3315 Peachtree Rd. NE (Highland Rd.)
Atlanta, GA 30326
404-946-9000

Omni Hotel at CNN Center

Guests staying here can enjoy celebrity sightings and the convenience of being near the World Congress Center and CNN Center. Views overlook Centennial Olympic Park or the downtown skyline.. Décor is a blend of Old World Oriental accents and Art Deco. Suites feature large living and dining areas with wet bars and refreshment centers. Prime Meridian includes international cuisine in an open-kitchen atmosphere, and more casual dining is available at Latitudes Bistro and Lounge. This is the perfect hotel for business travelers. If you’re on business, you’ll be conveniently located to everything you need, and it’s a short ride from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta airport.

100 CNN Center (International Blvd.)
Atlanta, GA 30305
404-659-0000

Chateau Elan Winery and Resort

A backdrop of gently rolling countryside sets the stage for this world-class resort and winery. The gorgeous seaside architecture is tucked into 2,400 acres of vineyards just 40 minutes from downtown Atlanta. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle of Atlanta, this is the perfect place to go. You’ll feel true Southern hospitality here, and if you love wine and great food, this is the place to be!

100 Rue Charlemagne (Hwy. 211)
Braselton, GA 30517
678-425-0900, 770-932-0900

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Hotels Comments 0 May 14th, 2010

Best Restaurants To Eat At In The Atlanta Airport

atlanta airport restaurantsDo you have a long layover in the Hartsfield-Jackon Atlanta Airport? Or are you one of those people who still shows up at the airport two hours before your flight? Hopefully, it’s not because your flight got cancelled or you missed your flight, but whatever reason you’re stuck at the Atlanta Airport, there’s good news. If you’re hungry, there’s some great food to be had without even leaving the airport. Here are a few recommendations from my opinion and other traveler’s opinions found in various forums and threads around the Internet.

Paschal’s: an Atlanta institution in business since 1947. The original restraurant was the site of many strategy meetings held by Martin Luther King, Jr. and other civil rights leaders during the 1960s. There are now three Paschal’s locations in the airport – one in the Atrium and one in terminal A and terminal C. Fried chicken just like my grandmother used to make. Artery clogging? Oh yes. But definitely authentic soul food.

Wall Street Deli: The Wall Street Deli in Terminal A has the best sandwitches in the airport.

Atlanta Bread Company: This place is like Panera Bread, but it’s more regional, and the best part is that quality isn’t lost with this location in the airport as opposed to the free-standing units. You can get a good sandwich and soup that will fill you up for a long flight.

One Flew South: One Flew South is the first upscale dining experience in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Diners can enjoy spirited global fare featuring premium ingredients from regional farmers and purveyors. One Flew South serves proper cocktails and features an exceptional sushi menu and take-away items. Not sure how many of you want fine dining in an airport, but if you’re looking for something that’s not greasy and fried, this is your best choice, but you’ll pay for it.

Sweet Water Brew House: This is a great place to grab a beer and some good pub food. It’s a local microbrewery, so if you’re a beer aficionado and you like trying new stuff, this is a good place to kill some time. It’s located in Concourse B.

Great Wraps: I like a good wrap, and this place is pretty quality. It’s lighter fare, but always big enough to fill you up. It’s located in Concourse A. Nature’s Table is another great place for wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, and soup, but according to the website, it’s currently closed for renovation (as of 5/13/2010).

Another good tip is to watch where the Delta pilots and other regulars eat, because they practically live at that airport, and they probably know the best places to eat. Do you have any suggestions for good places to eat in the world’s busiest airport?

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Locations, best restaurants in orlando Comments 0 May 13th, 2010

Getting To Know The NEW Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center

The Atlanta airport is HUGE, and it’s a major hub for all flights going to or from the south, so this makes it a REALLY busy airport. I love searching for key phrases like “Atlanta Airport” on Twitter and Facebook and seeing all of the updates from people about how confused or lost they are at the airport. They recently made renting a car a little easier by creating a facility where all of the rental car companies (including E-Z Rent-a-Car!) are located. This makes your rental car buying more efficient and easier to access at the airport. Here is some more information for those of you planning on renting a car from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport.

How To Access The Rental Car Center

  1. Pick up your checked luggage at the north or south baggage claim area.
  2. Follow the overhead signs and hallway placards to the rental car center.
  3. Proceed out of the west end of the terminal under the covered walkway.
  4. Take the escalator up to the station and board the ATL SkyTrain for the five-minute ride to the rental car center
atlanta airport rental car center

Benefits Of the Hartsfield-Jackson Rental Car Center

  • efficiency, convenience and streamlined service
  • No more long, bumpy rides to reach remote parking lots
  • Eliminating rental agency shuttle buses dramatically improves traffic on Airport roadways and reduces emissions that harm the environment
  • The state-of-the-art Rental Car Center also helps Hartsfield-Jackson meet anticipated growth in the number of passengers and improve customer service.

Promo Video For The Rental Car Center

As you can see, this is a huge improvement for the Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, and we were proud to be a part of their new facility. If you’re traveling for business or pleasure to Atlanta, make sure you check our rates for the best value in car rental!

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Locations, Rental Car Comments 0 May 12th, 2010

4 Fun 2010 Memorial Day Weekend Events Happening in Atlanta

Memorial Day is a great time to celebrate our great country and remember all of those that died during military service defending our freedom. It’s also considered the kick-off to the summer for many people. Kids are getting out of school, families are planning summer vacations, and everyone is gearing up for the hot and long summer months. Here are three great events happening in Atlanta that will make your Memorial Day that much more special.

Stone Mountain Park Memorial Weekend Celebration

May 28-31, 2010 – Stone Mountain Park – Atlanta Georgia

Just a short drive from anywhere in Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park celebrates Memorial Day Weekend with the Park’s Twentieth Anniversary of the World’s Largest Lasershow Spectacular with new song segments, more fireworks and new Laser Canopy special effects. Veterns and current members of the Military will also be honored each night. Memorial Day Weekend festivites begin each night at 9:30 PM.

Atlanta Jazz Festival 2010

May 29-31, 2010 – Various Locations throughout Atlanta, Georgia

Considered one of the World’s greatest Musical Celebrations, this annual jazz event always draws a huge crowd to listen to many well-known musicians such as Fats Domino and the Neville Brothers. The Atlanta Jazz Festival will take place at several different venues throughout the Atlanta area, including: Centennial Olympic Park, Underground Atlanta, Churchill Grounds, Piedmont Park and more.

Decatur Arts Festival

May 29 – 30, 2010

This community event features a fine arts exhibit, an artists market, performances and more.

Georgia Renaissance Festival – Fairburn

Located just minutes south of Atlanta near Exit 61 of I-85
April 17 – June 6, 2010: Saturdays and Sundays plus Memorial Day

The eagerly awaited Georgia Renaissance Festival features eight weeks of weekend spring fun including colorfully costumed performers and nonstop entertainment, a 32-acre Artisan Market, thrilling rides and games, parades, great food, jousting contests, period activities and more.

Need a discount rental car for Memorial Day in Atlanta? Consider E-Z Rent-A-Car, we’re the best value in car rental at the Atlanta Hartsfield airport!

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Festivals Comments 0 May 7th, 2010

Top 10 Fun Things To Do In Downtown Atlanta

If you’ve never been to Atlanta or this is your 10th time there, there’s always something fun to do in the heart of the city. Atlanta is one of the biggest cities in the South, and it’s a huge hub for commercial travel, sports, and entertainment. Whether you’re there on vacation or business, check out these top 10 fun things to do in downtown Atlanta.

things to do in downtown atlanta
  1. Georgia Dome – This is the centerpiece for sports and entertainment in downtown Atlanta. You can catch the Falcons playing here in the Fall, and many other huge sporting events such as the Chick-fil-A bowl in January.
  2. Philips Arena – This is the home of the Hawks, Thrashers, and Dream. This is also a hot venue for many concerts and entertainment acts. You can always find something going on at the Philips Arena throughout the year.
  3. Turner Field – This is the home of the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta’s most storied and prized sports franchise. You can catch them hitting home runs throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall.
  4. Georgia Aquarium – Do you like sharks? You probably don’t want to see one in the wild, but these amazing creatures can be seen at the Georgia Aquarium behind glass and away from you. The Georgia Aquarium was recently built, and it’s one of the hottest attractions in Atlanta. Don’t miss this one!
  5. Centennial Olympic Park – This 21-acre site was one of the most popular spots in the city during the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. Today, year-round programming featuring concerts, family activities and festivals make the park a gathering place for Atlantans and visitors. The park features the world’s largest Olympic Ring fountain.
  6. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta – Located on Centennial Olympic Park, Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta features hands-on, colorful exhibits and activities where children can discover, imagine and explore as they learn how things work in their world. Whether it’s building a sandcastle, painting on the walls, or exploring the latest exhibit, children will discover why it’s the smart place to play.
  7. Sweet Auburn District – The area of Sweet Auburn served as the thriving center of Black enterprise in Atlanta from the 1890s through the 1940s, and is the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. At the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, explore his birth home, visitor center, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and The King Center, where Dr. King’s Nobel Peace Prize is on exhibit.
  8. Underground Atlanta – Six city blocks have been transformed into a spirited marketplace that offers historic guided tours, more than 100 specialty stores, Kenny’s Alley, the trendy hangout with exciting nightlife and restaurants, street-cart merchants and annual events. The Peach Drop, the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the Southeast, St Patrick’s Day Festival, and Heritage Arts Festival are just a few of the special events that take place.
  9. World of Coca-Cola – This is always a fun thing to do, especially if you’re a big fan of Coke! You’ll get to see how it’s made, through a tour of the history of Coca-Cola and their famous ad campaigns, then at the end, you’ll get to sample all kinds of different Cokes from around the world. But beware, some of them are pretty nasty!
  10. Inside the CNN Headquarters – Ever wonder what it’s like inside one of the busiest news centers in the world? Journey into the heart of CNN Worldwide and get an up-close look at global news in the making. Inside CNN is a 55-minute guided walking tour with exclusive, behind-the-scenes views of Atlanta’s CNN studios and an exciting glimpse of news and broadcasting in action from the world headquarters of CNN.

Our new in-terminal location at the Atlanta airport makes it very easy and convenient to pick up a cheap rental car from E-Z Rent-A-Car. We strive to be the best value in car rental, and we hope you’ll consider renting from us while vacationing or traveling on business to Atlanta, Georgia!

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Attractions, Locations Comments 0 May 5th, 2010

5 Reasons To Book a Discount Car Rental At Our Atlanta Location

Summer is quickly approaching, and the economy has slowly started to recover. This means that many of you will start traveling again and you’ll make your rounds visiting friends and family for your summer vacation. One of our favorite cities in the South to visit is Atlanta, Georgia. There are great restaurants in Atlanta, so many places to visit, and you’ll love the vibrant Southern culture in and around Atlanta. If you’re flying into Atlanta Hartsfield airport, and looking for a discount rental car, here are five reasons to book a rental car with us.

  1. We just completed a massive renovation of our Atlanta car rental facility and it’s not in-terminal at the Atlanta airport. This makes it much more convenient for you and you’ll be out of the airport with your rental car quicker than ever before.
  2. We have a discount for everyone! Are you a teacher, part of the militar, a senior citizen, or student? We have a discount! Check out all of the E-Z discounts here.
  3. We have GPS units for rental with your cheap rental car. Just ask us at the counter about pricing and availability.
  4. We rent to drivers from ages 18 – 24. Additional charges apply, inquire at the time of booking.
  5. We’re the best value in car rental. We comparison shop to find to make sure you get the most competitive rate for your discount car rental in Atlanta.

Are you convinced, yet? Atlanta is a great place to visit, and we’ve made a huge change by moving in-terminal to the consolidated rental car facility at Hartsfield airport, and we think it will drastically change your experience with us in Atlanta. We’ve got smiling, friendly faces to greet you, and we’ll do whatever it takes to make sure you have a great time in Atlanta this summer.

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Locations, Rental Car Comments 0 May 3rd, 2010