When it comes to renting cars, there are a lot of things that the rental companies do to try and ‘ding’ you on the price, car and fees.

Most people know that not returning your rental with a full tank of gas is a big no-no, but there are plenty of other money-saving tips when it comes to car rentals.

Plus, learn how you can get a better car the next time you rent without paying a whole lot more.

Here’s what you need to know to make sure your next car rental goes more smoothly.

It would be hard, if not impossible, to find a travel brochure for any country that touts its taxi industry as one of its great treasures.

But some of the nicest, kindest and most helpful people I’ve met on the road are those who make their living driving strangers.

Their gestures have ranged from the small but sweet to hilarious, generous and life-affirming.

January 26, 2008

From Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio…

FIRE AT LAS VEGAS’ MONTE CARLO

Only 17 people were injured, mostly due to smoke inhalation, in the fire at the Monte Carlo in Las Vegas on Friday, and thankfully, no one died.

Las Vegas had some of the worst fire codes in the world in 1981, and now they have some of the best, as a direct result of a devastating fire at the MGM Grand.

As car-rental companies look to cut costs, customers may be exposed to stingier policies and lower-quality rentals.

Some companies are actually renting you older cars with more miles, while others are implementing stricter rules about refueling and adding on extra charges.

Instead of flagging down a taxi or booking a car to get from point A to B while traveling, why not hop onto a motorcycle?

Cities like London and Paris now offer motorcycle chauffeur services for those who want to beat the gridlock and have a little fun in the process.

Most rental cars used to be either a Ford Taurus or a Mercury Marquis.

Now, for a few dollars more, you can rent a car with some real style.

Travelers can now drive their dream cars for a day, but you have to be prepared to shell out some cash. Gotham Dream Cars offers a “Dream Car Tour” for about $600, which puts you behind the wheel of six sports cars in a single day.

In Marnanello, Italy, an all-inclusive Ferrari tour includes two nights in a villa, a visit to the Ferrari museum, and a VIP driving experience on a track.

In Germany, an Audi programs costs about $400 a day, with a factory tour and a guided drive through the region.

But steer …