Other east coast gateways have been very good. West coast gateways being used by folks from Florida to South Pacific and Japan with good results. Using the Japan Railpass saved money while there. SMT handling of car rentals and hotel arrangements have been a boon for first-time travelers. All that's needed is your drivers license.
Car rental is the most cost-effective mode of travel in Europe.
Use your Gold credit card - to save on CDW insurance. If you're a retired Reservist or Guardsman and wanting to use Space A, when you call an AMC gateway tell them you're also retired. If you don't tell them that you might be refused because you don't qualify. Be advised that in some countries you might not be able to rent a car due to your age. You might have to shop around to find a company that does.