旅游英語口語(MP3):Car Availability

When you travel, it is common to rent a car. You will either call and make a reservation, or you will rent one by walking up to the counter. We will cover both scenarios here.

At the Counter

If you are at the airport, you can ask an airport employee, "where is the rental car booth?" or "where can I rent a car?"

After you arrive at the place, you will ask if you any cars are available. Here is a common script.

"Hi. I would like to rent a car."
"Do you have any cars available?"

They might ask, "Did you make a reservation?" In this scenario, you didn't so you can answer, 'no.' If they don't have any cars available, they will say, "I'm sorry, we do not have any cars available today." If that is the case, then go to the next counter. Most airports have numerous car rental booths so you can keep asking until you find a company that has a car available. If you are going during peak vacation periods, it might be good to call and reserve one. But let's continue with this scenario.

If they have a car available, they will ask what type of car or what size.

"What size car would you like?"
"What type of car would you like?"
"What type of car do you need?"

"What sizes do you have?"
"What are my options?"

"We have compact, midsize, full size, luxury, SUV, and a minivan."

"How much is the full size car?"
"How much is the midsize car?"

"How many does the full size car seat?"
"How many can fit in the midsize car?"

"I'll take a midsize car."