After you've made Canada your home, navigating around will be easy, thanks to the extensive transportation system. Learn more about it in this article.
Canada's provinces boast unique transportation systems. In urban areas, you have various options like the metro, buses, taxis, or bicycles for getting around. For longer distances outside the cities, consider taking a plane, train, or coach. Coastal regions like British Columbia and the Atlantic area often rely on water ferries for transportation. Prioritize safety when choosing your mode of transport and compare prices in advance.
Bus travel in Canada
Canada has a well-established bus network that includes national, regional, and even US routes. Opting for the bus can sometimes be a quicker alternative to the train, allowing you to cover long distances at affordable fares. In Quebec, major carriers like Intercar and Orléans Express dominate the scene, while CoachCanada buses operate in Ontario. To compare prices and explore different companies, websites like busbud.com or checkmybus.fr can provide a helpful overview.
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Taking a cab in Canada
Cab services are widely available in most Canadian cities, but it's important to note that fares are regulated, typically based on the destination, and are not open to negotiation. Major urban centers typically have at least three cab companies.
Every cab driver is equipped with an identification document verifying the legality of their activities and a certificate ensuring their vehicle complies with the city's safety standards. If you want a preferential rate for a specific destination, it's advisable to discuss this with the driver from the start.
Additionally, Uber operates in most major Canadian cities as an alternative transportation option.
Flying in Canada
For travel in and out of Canada, a valid passport is essential, and authorities may request proof of legal presence in the country. Several Canadian airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat, and Sunwing Airlines, operate flights. Flair Airlines is recognized for offering budget-friendly domestic flights. In case of flight cancellations or delays, specific guarantees are available, dependent on the extent of the inconvenience and your ticket details. If disputes arise with a Canadian airline or one serving Canada, you can turn to the Canadian Transportation Agency.
It's worth mentioning that domestic flight fares, particularly for regional flights, tend to be relatively high compared to Europe. In Quebec, residents in remote areas may qualify for partial reimbursement of their travel expenses.
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Taking the train in Canada
Trains are not as widely used as other modes of transportation in Canada. While Canadian trains are often slower compared to those in other countries, they are known for their comfort and are designated as non-smoking. Similar to aircraft, there are various comfort categories ranging from economy to VIP. Some trains also offer amenities like Wi-Fi and online entertainment for passengers.
If you're planning cross-country travel, there are several packages available that provide unlimited travel for a specific period. Canadian railways offer discounts for children falling into different age categories and for senior citizens upon presentation of an access card.
At the national level, VIA Rail oversees Canadian trains. Additionally, various other rail networks operate throughout the country, such as the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) in Toronto and GO Transit in Ontario.
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Ferrying in Canada
In Canada, there are more than 180 ferry routes, with at least one operating in each province. For additional information about this transportation system, you can explore the Canadian Ferry Association website.
Renting a car in Canada
Due to Canada's size, many people opt to rent a car to get around. Car rental companies are found almost everywhere, including cities and airports. Additionally, some individuals choose to rent out their vehicles through platforms like Turo and Getaround.
Car rental rates differ among companies, so we advise you to compare prices before making a decision. To take possession of the vehicle, you'll be required to present a credit card in your name.
If your credit card doesn't already provide coverage, you'll need to include insurance in addition to the base rental price. Additionally, most companies levy extra charges for drivers under the age of 25.
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To rent a car, you typically need to be over 18, although this requirement may vary among rental companies. Importantly, you're not obliged to provide an international driving license; your home country's license may be sufficient, especially if it's in French or English. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in town and 100 km/h on the freeway, although these can vary from province to province. Many parking areas have fees, so be sure to check road signs before parking and always adhere to the Highway Code.
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Carpooling in Canada
Many individuals opt for carpooling, a simple process that involves signing up on a car-sharing website. You can either suggest a trip or join an existing one as a passenger. Additionally, there are private ad groups on Facebook where you can find carpooling opportunities. Carpooling not only helps you save money but also provides an alternative to renting a car on your own.
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Buying a used car in Canada
If it's within your budget, you might want to think about getting a used car. Just check out the classified ads in newspapers or online, where you can find vehicles from both private sellers and dealerships. Before making any payments, make sure to take the car for a test drive and compare various options. Keep in mind that besides the purchase price, you'll also have to budget for insurance and registration, which can add at least 30% more to the overall cost of the car.
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