Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Type of Travel: Train/Subway

It just struck me today, that I haven't done a single post about train travel. I'm not very experienced in this sector, though I have travelled underground style throughout Europe and above ground in Canada.

Trains:

Via Rail:

First lets start off with prices:

Types of Fares:
Regular- You may change your date/time without fees, and may purchase up to the time the train leaves.
Value- Available on select trains, must be purchased minimum of 1 day in advanced
Discounted- You may change your travel date/time for a charge each way, tickets must me purchased a minimum of 3 days in advance.
Supersaver- Lowest fare available, not allowed to change date/time, must purchase at least 3 days in advance
Special Fare- Not refundable/exchangeable, must be purchased at least 7 days in advance

-If you are between the ages of 18-25, you may receive a 25% discount on 'adult' fare in 'Comfort Class (economy)' , and a 10% discount on 'sleeper cab' fare. (Photo ID is required)

- Seniors get a 10% discount on 'Comfort Fare (economy)', however using Supersaver or Special Fare offers a cheaper price.

Baggage:
Certain trains have a baggage car, which you may have checked baggage.
If your train does, you may check 2 pieces (as I understand. This may not be correct, and it is advised you call Via Rail if you intend on using their services).
Like an airplane, there are fees for extra weight and extra bags.

The overall website is very confusing and hard to explain or generalize. If you would like to view the website, please follow the link: http://www.viarail.ca/

Go Transit (GoTrain)

Fare:
Like the Via Rail, fares depend on distance.
There are different types of fares however:
Adult (Ages 12-64, not full-time student)
Senior (65+, Half the adult cost for single-ride type)
Child (0-11, under the age of 1 ride free, 1 child between 1-4 may ride free with 1 adult)
Student (Elementary, Junior High and Secondary School, must show school's Student ID card)
Group (Max. 5 people. 1-2 must be over the age 18)
Children's Group (For elementary schools)
Large Group (15 or more people. Must contact GO minimum 24 hours in advance)

There are also different Ride types:
Single Ride
Two Ride
Day Pass
10-Ride
Monthly Pass
http://www.gotransit.com/PUBLIC/en/FARES/TICKETS.HTM

Visis http://www.gotransit.com for other information!

Happy Travels!

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