WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT YOUR LIMOUSINE COMPANY?

Yesterday was opening day at Del Mar Racetrack and we had several vehicles that took clients to the event. As is the practice at many venues, limousine companies are provided preferred parking and the ability to drop off in the front. But once our driver “stages” in the special lot, the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) appears and they check licenses, registration, insurance and run companies through their database to insure the legitimacy of the company.

This reminded me of a few things that are important for anyone renting a limousine to know. As a transportation company, we are a regulated by the CPUC to conduct business in California. The law states that we must have the following to be in compliance: inspections by the Highway Patrol of vehicles, commercial automotive insurance, worker’s compensation, drivers with ”clean” driving records, and registration of each vehicle with the CPUC. Additionally, we must be approved by every commercial airport to operate at their locations. As any small business owner knows, compliance is costly but necessary.

Every transportation company must have on both bumpers their assigned carrier permit number. Ours is TCP-9686P. Also like many small businesses, we have competitors that do not adhere to regulations that are in place for one simple reason: to protect the public from illegally operating companies that do not offer safe vehicles or safe working environments for their employees. In this age of the Internet anyone can post a website with stock photographs of vehicles and glowing words about the history of their company and the services/vehicles they offer.

Companies that do not meet the legal requirements, when caught, have their vehicles impounded. And it does not matter whether you, as the client, is standing at the curb at LAX or enjoying a day at the races. There will be no one there to pick you up (even though they may have already charged your credit card – you can of course dispute charges but we all know how long that takes).

So next time you need a town car to the airport, a limousine to Hollywood Bowl or a limousine bus for your child's prom, ask the question: what is your TCP number? Then go to the CPUC website to confirm it is legitimate. This is not merely an issue of complying with government regulations – it is about your safety and the fair compensation of the chauffeur that drives you. For more information on CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES and a request for documentation (which we will gladly provide) please call me at 714.288.8853.

THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL

The Hollywood Bowl is one of the largest natural amphitheaters in the world and the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. While much as changed since its official opening in 1922, the tradition of presenting the world’s greatest musicians has continued at this famed landmark. The Hollywood Bowl has showcased legendary performers such as Frank Sinatra, Luciano Pavarotti, The Beatles, Billie Holiday, Elton John, Judy Garland, Eric Clapton and Lily Pons. Fonteyn, Nureyev and Baryshnikov have danced here. And the Bowl’s podium has been graced by a wide variety of conductors, including Leonard Bernstein, John Williams, Henry Mancini and yes, even Big Bird! This summer’s list of performers is impressive, including Herbie Hancock, Diana Krall, Liza Minelli, Placido Domingo, Yo Yo Ma, Patti LaBelle, John Williams and of course the Los Angeles Philarmonic.

The Hollywood Bowl offers numerous seating choices from box seating with tables for picnics to bench seating. But everyone can enjoy a picnic with special areas set aside for guests. There is nothing quite as enjoyable as a balmy summer evening, enjoying great food, wonderful conversation and world class music. And let us help make it even more memorable by booking one of our chauffeured limousines. CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES is offering special packages on our sedans, SUV’s, limousines, SUV limousines and limousine buses. Give me a call at 714.288.8853 for more information.

DEL MAR RACETRACK

July 22 - September 9, 2009

Where the Turf Meets the Surf

In 1937 Bing Crosby stood at the gate as the first fan entered Del Mar Racetrack. Built by a group of partners including Crosby, Pat O'Brien, Jimmy Durante and Oliver Hardy, it is one of the premier American Thoroughbred racetracks in America. Overlooking the Pacific, it has over the years offered guests breathtaking views and outstanding competition, featuring some of the best known horses and jockeys in history.

There are great choices for seating. For something more casual, the Infield Pavilion is great or relax in either the Diamond Club or one of the cafes on the Clubhouse Terrace which offer tableside service. Also this is a wonderful group outing with great packages available. For more information, please call 858.755.1141.

CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES has been taking clients to Del Mar for the past twenty years. General public access and parking can be overwhelming with only a few gates open for entry. But chauffeured vehicles are given preference with separate gates allowing you to disembark at the main entrance. So let us make your trip to Del Mar even more enjoyable, as you sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of champagne in one of our limousines. Or we can accommodate larger groups in our SUV limousines or limousine buses. And since it is summer you can also take advantage of some of the current specials we are running. Please call for more information at 714.288.8853.

THE GREENING OF CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES

A little over a year ago, one of the biggest trends in the transportation industry was the “greening” of companies. But as the economy plummeted, travel department budgets dwindled and cost trumped everything else, we stopped receiving requests for Hybrid vehicles. But a commitment to reducing an organization’s carbon footprint is about more than buying a Hybrid; it is about changing attitudes and behaviors. CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES’ environmental program is multi-pronged:

Recycle program
Electricity conservation program
Fuel efficient driving practices
Sourcing eco-friendly supplies
Working to create a paperless office
Investment in alternate fuel vehicles

All of us at CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES are committed to making the needed changes. The Taoist philosopher Laozi said that “a journey of a thousand miles starts with one step.” The same can be said for decreasing global warming – each of us must take that first step.

For more information on our program and commitment, please give me a call at 714.288.8853.

THE STAYCATION

Sit! Stay! Stay - NOW!

To my furry friend these are familiar words (usually rewarded with a treat). But now we are commanding ourselves to stay where we are and make it a vacation. Swim, play, go to the movies, to Disneyland, to an Angel Game, to brunch, or maybe the museum . . . well I would. After all we live in one of the premier travel destinations in the world. But not to fret or feel denied, for this is something real – it’s a staycation.

I have never embraced a title or action that tries to be something other than what it is. To me, it’s like an affectation - no matter how you dress it up, it is still the same thing. But the term disturbed me even more once I heard that Merriam-Webster has included it in its latest addition. That bible of our language has given relevance to a term I have only heard in a casino or hotel advertisement. But deeming it part of the vernacular? I know no one who has uttered the phrase: ”No we’re not going anywhere this year, we’re planning a staycation.”

Perhaps I am too cynical, too harsh. Or maybe my fault lies in not joining the band, touting the benefits of staying home. After all if Merriam-Webster deems it worthy, then perhaps we should consider this new trend. CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES has a few ideas to make your staycation something special and not just the same old, same old. With reduced rates and minimums on all our fleet, enjoy the comfort and luxury of chauffeured transportation to your next Angel game, concert at the Bowl or an evening sipping cocktails as you gaze on one of our beautiful sunsets.

CHAUFFEURS

Like so many small businesses throughout the United States we struggle in the current economic climate. We are not some large company with an HR department that knows little more than an employee's name or number on a list or the occasional letter of commendation (or complaint). They are people - friends - cohorts and we have shared the death of loved ones, prayed when illness struck and rejoiced in the birth of a child.

I served my time in corporate America. But the mood is different here. It is a group effort at its best; for what I may book, they must execute. And we are lucky to have the people we do as drivers - as chauffeurs. Success is born in commitment; something demonstrated each and every day by these wonderful people. I revel in their decency, in their preparation, in their caring, and in their dedication to a push to success that none of us can accomplish alone.

Thanks guys ~ck

PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS

July 8 - August 31, 2009

When a sculptor first faces a a lifeless chunk of marble or a painter places the blank canvas on the easel, what inspires them? The Muse - the 2009 Pageant of the Masters, will inspire with its uniquely theatrical celebration of the art of tableaux vivants - "living pictures." From Gauguin to Vermeer to Lalique to Parish, their art comes alive as we seek to understand the artist and his muse. First staged in 1878, this annual celebration of the artist and his art is a unique experience. There are great tickets still available. But be flexible - go on a weekday! Ticket prices are lower, better seats are open and restaurants are less crowded. For more information please call 800.487.3378.

Traffic and parking can be a challenge in Laguna Beach. CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES has some great packages available Sunday through Thursday. Book a ten passenger limousine for five hours and the sixth hour is free. The total cost for the evening is $357.50 (includes minimum gratuity, tax/license fees and service fees). And if you need just a town car for two or you are planning a large group, we can also accommodate those needs with our extensive fleet of vehicles. So give us a call to plan the perfect summer evening under the stars, delighting in great art and music.

CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES

Thank you for visiting my blog! For twenty years, CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES has provided the finest luxury transportation available. With nationwide service, we are one of the premier providers of corporate and leisure transportation in the United States. Centrally located in Orange, California, we can provide for all your transportation needs: airport transfers, corporate events, concerts, birthday/anniversary celebrations, sporting events and employee incentive programs. We are dedicated to meeting your every need; continually striving to find better ways to serve you.

With our extensive fleet of vehicles, featuring executive sedans, SUV’s, Hybrids, Mercedes S550’s, limousines, SUV limousines and limousine buses we can transport all your valued clients and staff with appropriate style and efficiency. Our clients’ satisfaction is the key to our success so please let us know of any special requests you may have; we will tailor our service to meet your individual preferences. For your convenience, our reservation and dispatch staff is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Also, as an added service, we can arrange transportation anywhere in the United States through our network of global affiliates.

Our commitment is to setting the highest standards in the industry. As a client, you will always be treated with professionalism and personal attention. We build lasting relationships, assuring the personalized service you deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have about CLASSIQUE LIMOUSINES. We will give you the prompt attention you deserve.