subject: Vancouver 2010 Olympics: Transportation [print this page] From the figure skating to the bob sledding, from the ice hockey, to the ski jumping, there is nothing quite like being there to witness the winter Olympic games. This coming year, it's going to the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and we've got you covered. You'll need to know how to get around in this great city while you're visiting the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, so here's a rundown on Vancouver transportation:
Vancouver is like many large cities throughout North America and Europe, with many of the same amenities you'd expect, but also a few quirks all their own. Unlike many large cities, there is no freeway into or even through downtown Vancouver. Back in the 1960s, there was an attempt to build one, but it was defeated by a coalition of concerned citizens. The city is surrounded by water on three sides and thus has a number of bridges to get around to the north and south.
Primarily, people in Vancouver get around in cars, however for those who prefer not to rent a car, Vancouver does sport the second longest automated light rail system in the world. And if it's a nice day out, you could bundle up a bit and take a bike down one of the city's many bike paths.
Bus service is available in most parts of the city and region and is run by the Coast Mountain Bus Company. In West Vancouver and Lions Bay West Vancouver Blue Bus runs the buses.
Buses are all wheelchair friendly and can also carry up to two bicycles (either or). Vancouver is also unique in that it maintains a trolley bus system, harking back to the early days of public transportation.
And while you're visiting for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, try this transportation revolution: The SkyTrain. This automated train service is the second longest in the world operating without human intervention. It was built for the Expo 86 World's Fair and also features the world's longest transit-only bridge, known as the Sky Bridge. There are a total of three lines operating, including the Expo and Millenium links which connect the suburbs of Burnaby, New Westminster and Surrey with downtown and the brand new Canada line, which connects central Richmond and downtown Vancouver to Vancouver International Airport.
Of course, even with all these options, the best choice is still to rent a car. While it may not be environmentally friendly, when it comes to Vancouver 2010 Olympics transportation, it is still the easiest way to get around.
