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Getting Around

Public Transport

Although Calgary does not have a subway, its combination of bus services integrated with a light rail system, known as the C-train, provides effective transportation within the city centre. The service is punctual, clean and cheap. Calgary Transit (tel: (403) 262 1000; web site: www.calgarytransit.com) operates both the buses and the C-train.

The C-train (open Monday-Friday 0500-2400, Sat and Sun 0600-2400; 24 hours during Calgary Stampede) comprises two lines, known as route 201 and 202. The 201 line runs from Anderson Road in the south to Brentwood in the North. The 202 line runs from Whitehorn in the east and ends at Tenth Street in the west. The C-train arrives every five minutes during rush hour and every fifteen minutes at other times. Buses (weekdays 0500-2400, some main routes until 0100), operate throughout the city, its suburbs and to the airport. All Calgary Transit adult ticket fares cost C$1.60 and an adult day pass costs C$5. Transfers are available for switching between C-train and buses.

Taxis

A great number of private despatch companies operate in Calgary. Taxis can be hailed in the city centre at any time. They can also be ordered by telephone from companies such as Yellow Cab (tel: (403) 974 1111) and Checker Cabs (tel: (403) 299 4999). An initial charge of C$2.50 applies and the price rises according to time and distance travelled. A short trip within the city centre should not cost more than C$15. Drivers are commonly tipped around 10% of the fare.

Limousines


For longer journeys or itineraries that require numerous trips by car, hiring a limousine can be a good idea. Chauffeur and limousine service is available from Carey Elite Limousine Service (tel: (403) 291 2566; fax: (403) 250 3725; C$64 per hour) and Ambassador Limousine (tel: (403) 299 4910; fax: (403) 248 05844 C$50 per hour).

Driving in the City

Traffic is heaviest during rush hour (0700-0930 and 1630-1900), particularly on the highways connecting the suburbs with the city centre. Calgary is laid out on an easy-to-follow grid system. Major streets and avenues are named according to number, with streets running east-west and avenues running north-south. Seventeenth Avenue Southwest is the city's most major stretch of road. Street parking is available, although rare in the city centre during the day. Parking in a private lot is more reliable, with prices generally around C$2 per hour, with a daily maximum of C$10 and evening flat rates of C$3.

Car Hire

Many major North American and international car hire firms operate within Calgary. The most central locations accepting international reservations are: Avis, 211 Sixth Avenue (tel: (403) 291 1475); Budget, 140 Sixth Avenue (tel: (403) 226 1550); Hertz, 217 Sixth Avenue Southwest (tel: (403) 221 1300 or (800) 263 0600); Rent-a-Wreck, 3716 Second Street Northeast (tel: (403) 284 0755); Thrifty, 123 Fifth Avenue Southeast (tel: (403) 262 4400); and Tilden, 114 Fifth Avenue (tel: (403) 263 6386).
Hire charges are in the region of C$50 per day or C$250 per week and vary seasonally. Drivers must be 21 years or older and drivers under 25 may have to pay a surcharge with certain firms. European licence holders do not need an International Driving Permit, however, this is often not the case for drivers with licences from other parts of the world. Insurance is available from the car hire firm.

Bicycle & Rollerblade Hire

Bicycle or rollerblade rental can be arranged through Sports Rent, 4424 16th Avenue Northwest (tel: (403) 292 0077). Prices for rollerblades are C$10 per day and for bicycles C$22 per day.



Copyright © 2001 Columbus Publishing
    
GENERAL
City Overview
City Statistics
Cost of Living
 
GETTING THERE
Air
Road
Rail
 
GETTING AROUND
Getting Around
 
BUSINESS
Business
 
SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing
Key Attractions
Further Distractions
Tours of the City
Excursions
 
ENTERTAINMENT
Nightlife
Sport
Shopping
Culture
Special Events
Food and Drink