Website design By BotEap.comThe Great Gatsby, by American author F. Scott Fitzgerald, is set on the north shore of Long Island and in New York City during the summer of 1922. For Fitzgerald, both in fiction and in real life, the automobile and , more specifically, the limousine, was the ultimate status symbol; it gave proof of one’s location on the road to social and financial success. The chauffeured car was a device he often used as a central symbol in his writing, and Fitzgerald was not blind to the seemingly social phenomenon that “wealth rolls in limousines”.

Website design By BotEap.comHistorically, the limousine has been a status symbol for the rich and powerful people in American society, whether they were presidents, businessmen, celebrities, or gangsters.

Website design By BotEap.comAlthough the word limousine is of French origin, originally used as a term for a hooded carriage driver, the limousine is a uniquely American invention. The first limousine was built in the 1920s by Armbruster & Company of Arkansas and quickly became an international standard in ground transportation for those seeking a combination of comfort and prestige.

Website design By BotEap.comMore recently, news headlines reported that the number of US government-owned limousines increased by 73 percent during the first two years of the Obama administration. Officials said the increase reflects a greater effort to protect diplomats and other government officials in a dangerous world.

Website design By BotEap.comThe presidential limousine or “state car” Carrying President Obama has many current Cadillac styling themes, but it doesn’t exactly resemble any particular production vehicle. The car is equipped with tear gas cannons, reinforced run-flat tires and a wheelbase built to withstand bomb and missile attacks. The interior is completely sealed to protect the President against the risk of a chemical or biological attack. In the trunk there is a blood bank of the president’s blood type. Interestingly, there are no key holes in the doors. Although the price has not been announced, there is a rumor that each limousine costs $300,000.

Website design By BotEap.comThe most expensive limousine ever made was made by Rolls-Royce in December 2006. It is a stretched version of the Phantom and is designed to be bulletproof and able to withstand a mine detonation. The granddaddy of all limousines has a price tag to match its rarity: $3.8 million! So far, it is the most expensive luxury car in history.

Website design By BotEap.comEven with the exorbitant prices of these elite automobiles, renting a limo for the rest of us has become a popular and affordable way to celebrate a special occasion. It is no longer limited to the world leader or business executive. They are now an affordable option for anyone wishing to travel in this mode of ultimate luxury.

Website design By BotEap.comLong Island limousine services, such as Long Island Limousine by Broward Limousine in Island Park, NY, offer a wide range of ground transportation solutions that make limousine travel a perfect addition to any birthday celebration, prom night or wedding ceremony. Limousines are elegant and sophisticated and ensure that passengers arrive at their destination in style.