Transport in Los Angeles, California, USA
World Travel
Los Angeles, California, USA Travel Guide
Transport in Los Angeles, California, USA
Public transport:
Despite LA being one of the most car-oriented cities in the world, public transport can be a good way to get around. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)operates one of the largest fleets in the nation - 200 Metro Bus routes as well as five Metro rail lines, including subway and light rail. Due to the size of the city, bus journeys can be time-consuming and may involve changing, but if the subway stops where required, it is a very good option.
A monthly, weekly or Metro Day Pass offers unlimited rides on Metro Bus or Metro Rail, or passengers can buy 10 Metro tokens, which can be used for one-way fares on either bus or rail. Many hotels, convenience and grocery stores and Metro Customer Centers sell Metro passes.
Downtown Los Angeles also has its own bus system called DASH, operated by LADOT
Taxis:
Taxis are readily available and there are ranks at major hotels, but they cannot be hailed on the street. The size of Los Angeles makes them expensive and impractical for cross-town journeys but they are useful for night journeys within one area. Tipping at 15-20% is expected. There are nine franchised taxi operators in the city. Visitors should look for the official Los Angeles Taxicab Seal before getting in, as those without it have no legal authorisation to operate. In Beverly Hills, cab companies are the Beverly Hills Cab Company (tel: 1 800 273 6611) and Independent Taxi Company (tel: 1 800 521 8294). Elsewhere, try Bell Cab (tel: 1 888 235 5222).
Driving:
The distances between LA's various points can seem daunting, but it is pretty easy to get around by car. Plan your journey in advance and get to know a map of the major freeways or rent a car with GPS navigation. Other streets are laid out on a grid system and easy to navigate.
Freeways are well marked, but jammed during rush hours. Most have designated car pool lanes for cars carrying more than one person. Merge in and out of them when road markings permit and take care not to get stuck in one and miss your exit. LA drivers rarely use turn signals so stay alert.
For on-street meter parking (they take quarters and sometimes credit cards), read all signs carefully as there is a complicated system of days or hours when parking is not allowed for street cleaning etc. Illegally parked cars are ticketed and may be towed. Meters are usually free after 1800. Valet park at many restaurants for a nominal fee.
Car hire:
Drivers must be at least 25 years of age, depending on company policy. Optional CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) insurance is always recommended if not already covered by the driver's own policy.
Bicycle hire:
Away from the freeways, Los Angeles is cycle friendly, with designated cycle lanes criss-crossing the city and running along the beachfront. Topanga Creek Bicycles hires out mountain bikes and will point you in the direction of some great trails in the Santa Monica Mountains.. Perry's Beach Cafe, 2400 and 2600 Oceanfront Walk, Santa Monica, has bikes, tricycles and skates for hire and easy access to the bike paths either side of Santa Monica Pier.
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