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While Vancouver is a beautiful city known for its scenic views, scrumptious eateries, and hospitable people, it is also known for its bumper-to-bumper traffic and parking. For visitors with a car rental, Vancouver’s streets can be challenging to maneuver through, especially during rush hour. Knowing how to navigate traffic and find parking spots can result in an enjoyable experience.
While the traffic in Vancouver has no pattern and can emerge any time anywhere, there are certain times of the day, like early mornings when people are going to work or late afternoons when people are returning from work, that you can watch out for. Downtown Vancouver can be especially loaded with cars during these times as well as the main bridges that connect to highways for many drivers going or coming from home. If you have to drive during these times, keep your eyes and ears peeled on the radio and navigation platforms to help you avoid major areas and find different routes.
Parking is yet another adventure to undertake with a car rental. Vancouver deems parking an extreme sport as one will undergo a strenuous exercise to find parking in the city, especially downtown. Street parking comes with a set of time limits, financial requirements, and availability. Depending on where you park, the rates for street parking differ, but ticketing is costlier, so always ensure you pay.
With a car rental, Vancouver’s daily and hourly parking options may be better suited for drivers. EasyPark and Impark parkades are located all over the city, including downtown, and offer more cost-effective rates for a full day of parking while you enjoy your time in Vancouver. Outside of downtown Vancouver, parking is less of an extreme sport. Visitors may commonly find free parking spots on residential streets or other low-cost options.
For people new to Vancouver, driving in the city may take some time getting used to. Getting accustomed to the odd left and right turn rules and the fact that bike lanes are right next to drivers may take visitors by surprise. Bikers are beloved in Vancouver and with such a vast community of cyclists, designated bike lanes exist almost everywhere. These lanes are governed by strict law enforcement and can result in drivers getting fined for driving on bike lanes or not giving way to cyclists. Bike lanes are often painted green, with a cycle marked on the road, making it easy to identify which lane to steer clear of!
Once you get used to Vancouver’s quirky road rules and see bikers everywhere you go, a rental car is the best way to make the most of your stay in the city. It allows you to explore places that are further away from the town and not accessible by public transportation, like the northern, mountain areas. Rental cars also offer convenience in addition to access and when you plan, the experience is even better. By familiarizing yourself with Vancouver’s traffic patterns, parking availability, and bike rules, you can truly enjoy the city as a Vancouverite!
At West Coast Car Rentals, we provide the stress-free experience you need to enjoy Vancouver. Our team truly understands what it’s like to be a new driver in the daunting city of Vancouver and is here to guide you through the process. With all kinds of rentals available, we pride ourselves on being the go-to company for car rental Vancouver offers!
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