driving a standard in UK???

The last time I did this it took me a day to stop reaching to shift with my right hand on the first try - why was there a door handle where I expected the stick? The bigger issue relates to the fact that British roads tend to be busier than what many North Americans are used to and driving seems to be more of a precision art with little room for error. Unless you are driving the North Yorkshire moors and other remote places you may want the automatic so that you can focus on what may be a very different driving experience for you.

If you're confident driving a standard at home, you shouldn't have a problem dealing with the stick shift on the left. It "feels" the same as at home, in that the lower gears are closer to you...the higher gears are farther away. At least the pedals are in the same order! You may end up with a standard anyway. I don't know of any European car rental agency that will hold one for you specifically...once they're gone, they're gone. Like the car you book....it may not be that exact model when you arrive.

This is clearly a matter of personal preference, based on your knowledge of how adaptable and non-fluster-able the driver is in situations that are potentially safety and money situations(accidents, if the driver is not as adaptable or as quick to learn as you thought).

I always pay extra for an automatic in the UK, and never pay extra for an automatic in right-hand drive countries.

A royal pain to me. I always spring for an automatic. When you are driving you want all your attention on the road. It is strange enuf just being on the other side of road. Drive it safe!

I've driven both, but found it removed one layer of stress to get the automatic, particularly when traveling alone. Trying to keep eyes on the road and occasionally on the map (before GPSs) was enough without dealing with shifting, too. That being said, shifting lefthanded was never an issue for me -- I'm lefthanded, anyway.

Richard,

Even if you're used to driving a manual transmission here, I'd suggest getting an automatic in the UK (at least until you get used to the driving conditions there and driving on the "correct side of the road").

I'd also suggest taking a few minutes before switching on the ignition to become familiar with the layout of the controls in the car. That way if you have any questions, you'll be able to ask the staff at the car hire agency.

Happy travels!

We own UK and French vehicles. None are automatic. We switch between the two systems with ease - years of practice - BUT this is rural France. If it's your first time driving in the UK - especially in urban traffic, get an automatic -- if you can!

Roger

www.fermedecandeloup.fr

It "feels" the same as at home, in that the lower gears are closer to you...the higher gears are farther away. <<

Not true in my experience, having rented manual cars in the UK half a dozen times in the past 25 years or so. First is up and to the left (as it is at home) and 4th/5th is over to the right (as it is at home).

I've never had trouble with the gearshift pattern or reaching with the correct hand, but frequently I'll operate the wipers instead of the turn signal...