allaboutcalgary

[allaboutcalgary]

According to worldatlas.com, on average, there are 333 sunny days and 2,396 hours of sunshine per year.

[allaboutcalgary]

The beautiful Calgary Skyline

[allaboutcalgary]

A Basic Guide to Driving Rules in Alberta for New Immigrants

Driving in Alberta, the picturesque Canadian province known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, is a truly enjoyable experience. However, before hitting the road, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local driving rules to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey. In this blog post, we'll cover the key driving rules and regulations you need to know when navigating Alberta's highways and byways.

License Requirements: To drive in Alberta, you must have a valid driver's license. Visitors can use their home country's license for up to 90 days; after that, they need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) or apply for an Alberta driver's license. New residents must apply for an Alberta license within 90 days of moving to the province.

Speed Limits: Speed limits in Alberta are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). The general speed limits are as follows:

Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)

Rural roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)

Provincial highways: 100 km/h (62 mph)

Some divided highways: 110 km/h (68 mph) Always adhere to the posted speed limits, as speeding fines can be hefty.

Seat Belts and Child Restraints: Wearing a seat belt is mandatory for all vehicle occupants in Alberta. Children under the age of 6 or weighing less than 18 kg (40 lbs) must use an approved child restraint system appropriate for their age, weight, and height.

Right-of-Way Rules: In Alberta, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and to other vehicles when entering a road from a private driveway or alley. At intersections with stop signs, the first vehicle to arrive has the right-of-way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the one on the right proceeds first.

Turning Rules: When making a right turn, ensure you signal your intent and check for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Right turns on red lights are permitted unless a sign prohibits them. For left turns, yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before turning. Left turns on red lights are only allowed when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, unless otherwise posted.

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a serious offense in Alberta. The use of handheld devices, such as mobile phones, while driving is strictly prohibited. Fines and demerit points can be imposed on drivers caught using handheld devices.

Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in Alberta. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for fully licensed drivers is 0.05%. For drivers with a Graduated Driver's License (GDL), the limit is 0.00%. Penalties for impaired driving include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.

Winter Driving: Winter driving conditions in Alberta can be challenging. Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with appropriate tires and an emergency kit. Drive at reduced speeds, maintain a safe following distance, and be prepared for changing road conditions.

Understanding and adhering to the driving rules in Alberta is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey through the province. By keeping these guidelines in mind, you'll be well-prepared to navigate Alberta's roads with confidence. Happy driving!

[allaboutcalgary]

Welcome to Calgary,

Getting around the city is relatively easy, thanks to its comprehensive public transportation system operated by Calgary Transit. Here's an overview of the different modes of transportation available and their respective costs (as of my last knowledge update in September 2021, so please check the official website for the most current prices and schedules: https://www.calgarytransit.com/).

Light Rail Transit (LRT): Calgary's LRT system, known as the CTrain, consists of two lines: the Red Line (Tuscany-Somerset/Bridlewood) and the Blue Line (69th Street-Saddletowne). Trains run frequently, usually every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and 15 minutes during off-peak hours.

Buses: Calgary Transit operates numerous bus routes that cover the entire city. Buses typically run less frequently than the CTrain, so make sure to check the schedule for specific routes.

On-Demand Transit: In some areas with lower ridership, Calgary Transit provides on-demand service. You can book a trip through the My Fare app or by calling the Calgary Transit call center.

Fares (as of September 2021):

Adult (18-64 years old):

Single fare: $3.50

Day pass: $11.00

Monthly pass: $109.00

Youth (6-17 years old):

Single fare: $2.40

Day pass: $8.00

Monthly pass: $79.00

Seniors (65+ years old):

Single fare: $2.40

Day pass: $8.00

Annual pass: $145.00

Please note that children under 6 years old ride for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. You can buy tickets at ticket vending machines located at CTrain stations, select convenience stores, or by using the My Fare app.

In addition to public transportation, you can also make use of taxis, rideshare services like Uber, and bike-sharing programs like Lime Bike. The cost of these services will vary based on the distance and time of your trip. Calgary also has a network of bike lanes and pathways, making it a bike-friendly city if you prefer to get around on two wheels.

Remember to check the official Calgary Transit website for the most up-to-date information on fares, schedules, and routes. Enjoy exploring Calgary!