Public transportation is an excellent option for saving money and reducing your environmental impact. Alberta's public transport system is well developed in larger cities like Edmonton and Calgary and some smaller communities. Transit trains, buses and shuttle buses provide safe and reliable transportation in many of Alberta's towns and cities.
Edmonton and Calgary also have Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems that connect some areas of the city with the downtown area.
For bus and LRT fares, routes, and schedules, visit the city's websites or phone the transit system. Phone numbers are listed in the phone book in the blue pages or under the name of your community in the white pages.
If you're planning on taking public transportation, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Transit buses pick up people and drop them off at bus stops only. Bus stops are marked with signs.
Have the correct amount of money (in coins) for bus fare because bus drivers do not carry change. Transit systems in Edmonton and Calgary allow you to purchase monthly bus passes or books of transit tickets at various retail outlets. Students can often purchase reduced fare bus passes through their schools.
Read the signs posted in LRT stations and always pay the fare. Inspectors randomly check to see if passengers have proof that they have paid (a bus pass, date-stamped transit ticket or transfer slip). If you have not paid the appropriate fare, you will be fined.
The cost of a bus ride does not vary with the length of the trip. If you need to take more than one bus or transfer to an LRT train to reach your destination, ask for a transfer slip when you pay your fare. A transfer slip allows you to get on the first available bus or train, at no additional charge, within 90 minutes after you received the slip.
Alberta's larger cities have special transit systems for people who have disabilities. These buses are specially designed to accommodate wheelchairs and take people from their homes to their destinations. Contact your local public transit system for information.
Taxis are more expensive than public transit but passengers are taken directly to their destination. All taxi companies in a city charge the same rate but rates may vary from one city to another.
Each taxi has a meter to measure the time and distance of each trip. The meter will show how much to pay the driver. You cannot bargain for taxi fares. Also a tip of about 10 per cent may be expected but is not required.
You'll find taxis waiting beside airports, large buildings, hotels, at shopping malls, hospitals and many more public places. You can also request taxi service by phone. Telephone numbers for taxi companies are listed in the yellow pages of the telephone book and at myTELUS.
Alberta is served by two international airports located in Calgary and Edmonton and by many smaller local airports. Major airlines offer direct and connecting flights to many North American and international destinations. To find a travel agent, look in the yellow pages of your telephone book or at myTELUS.
Several bus companies operate throughout Alberta. For information about costs and schedules, look under Buses or Bus Lines in the yellow pages of your telephone book or at myTELUS.
Passenger train services runs between Jasper and Edmonton and offer tour services from Vancouver to Jasper, Banff and Calgary. For information about schedules and costs, see VIA Rail Canada (1-888-842-7245 toll-free); or see Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tours (1-877-460-3200 toll-free).