Impress your date and explore Sydney in a pink Mercedes

When times are tough in the travel writing world, the smartest cookies in the box find a way to pivot. 

That's certainly what Sydney-based Katrina Holden has done. 

Love pink? Love vintage vibes? 

Summer in Sydney has seen the launch of a brand new, unique ride service built around a very cute 1975 baby pink Mercedes Benz complete with its original interiors, called That Pink Merc.

That Pink Merc is hireable by the hour, with a driver, and takes up to four passengers who are encouraged to create their own memorable moments. 

There are no hard rules other than you get a pink Merc, a driver and any add-ons that you want -  the hire is yours for the duration to go wherever you want. 

Passengers could hire the car for a scenic route lunch drop-off, a wedding car moment, a drive to watch a pretty sunset against the bonnet, a romantic picnic or a ride through the Cross to stare at the plebs. 

Add-ons are also available for each booking as an extra surprise or touch point. They include a picnic kit and glassware; a gourmet cheese pack, half a dozen boxed #RideTheMoment cupcakes, a posy of florals with a hand-written card, event/wedding ribbons on the front of the car and personalised monogram lettering on the rear window.

All these items are pre-set-, pre-arranged and ready when That Pink Merc and driver arrive at your pick-up destination. 

“That Pink Merc is all about throwing traditional hire car rules out the window and letting people make up their own moments, exactly as they want them to be,” says Holden (who is a friend of mine and a retro lifestyle expert). 

“We have had so many rules the last two years, we just wanted to remove all layers of restriction and let people create the level of fun, sophistication or style that they want on this experience."

That Pink Merc is a Covid-safe business with a fully vaccinated driving team. As per current NSW Health regulations, riders will need to be vaccinated to enjoy their moment. 

Ride the Moment experiences in That Pink Merc start from $300 + GST and can be easily booked online at www.thatpinkmerc.com

That Pink Merc is also available for events, activations, photoshoots and creative collaborations.

"It's been a whirlwind few months," Holden says. "But I'm bringing my two great passions for travel and vintage culture together in a brand new entrepreneurial chapter.

"This represents something quite different to anything I’ve done before and looking back at the past few months, I’ve really had to challenge myself to step outside of my comfort zone and back myself and my vision. 

"I’m feeling proud about launching and also the personal growth I’ve experienced in taking a road less travelled."