Virgin America Elevate - VX adds Avis and Budget as FF partners

Avis and Budget rentals can now earn VX points. There are also some discount codes that look pretty good (Avis: 25%, Budget: "up to 40%"), plus some double mile bonus offers. This was sent to elevate members.

Just tried to book an AVIS rental; noticed that Virgin America is *not* in the dropdown menu for FF programs. :td:

Called reservations, and the "added it to the notes". What are the odds that I will get credit? (rhetorical question)

Just tried to book an AVIS rental; noticed that Virgin America is *not* in the dropdown menu for FF programs. :td:

Called reservations, and the "added it to the notes". What are the odds that I will get credit? (rhetorical question)

Rhetorical, indeed. Avis is absolutely horrible to deal with on anything even slightly out of the box like this.

Just for kicks, try Virgin Atlantic on the dropdown menu. It says Virgin "Freeway" -- no idea how long ago it was that that the VS Flying Club was called the Freeway. I had to do a Google search to be sure it was the same thing. So don't hold your breath.

This is now fixed, and I was able to modify my existing reservation to add my VX account.

Budget seems to work fine, and the rate I was quoted was pretty good.

Hey, can you rent a Corvette from either Budget or Avis? (haven't been able to see/book anything online).

I have never driven in one and am considering renting one for a couple days on my next trip (I have a bit of a thing for them).

I've been looking at private rental companies, but it would be great to receive a discount and be able earn some elevate points.

Hey, can you rent a Corvette from either Budget or Avis? (haven't been able to see/book anything online).

I have never driven in one and am considering renting one for a couple days on my next trip (I have a bit of a thing for them).

I've been looking at private rental companies, but it would be great to receive a discount and be able earn some elevate points.

Yes, you can:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/avis/916293-avis-fleet-list-us-canada-cars-class.html

Yes, you can:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/avis/916293-avis-fleet-list-us-canada-cars-class.html

Can they be booked online, or do I have to call (international)? Every dealer I try locate doesn't have them available...

If there isn't quick/easy answer, I'll post this in the Avis forum.

I believe you can book all Avis cars online, even their fancier ones. I booked a Pontiac Solstice out of LAX, found out you couldn't fit a carryon in the trunk :confused: :td: and traded it in for a Saab convertible at no extra charge.

ETA: if that doesn't work out, look at Midway (http://www.midwaycarrental.com/Pages/default.aspx) out of LAX (assuming you're flying there- I've never rented a car out of SFO, so don't have a clue where to rent there). I rented through them once when LAX rental rates through the majors were something completely stupid (just a PT Cruiser, but it was $50 for the weekend instead of over $100), and they were pretty no-hassle, and they also rent Corvettes.

Also, I'd avoid Thrifty out of LAX if you're doing a luxury/premium car rental- tried to upgrade from a convertible to a Mini Cooper, and the manager gave me a hard time (and eventually wouldn't give me anything but what I originally ordered) because I wouldn't buy the supplemental insurance (this despite having AMEX Platinum covering the car rental). I have no idea why he cost himself money, but Thrifty lost my business out of LAX because of that.

Maybe that's my problem, I'm looking in San Francisco (SFO or Marin). Thanks!