Getting around UBC and Vancouver

Living in Vancouver, you’ll become familiar with TransLink, Metro Vancouver’s transportation network consisting of buses, SkyTrains and the SeaBus. With the U-Pass program, students can affordably access public transit in Metro Vancouver. A SkyTrain extension to UBC may be coming to campus in the next decade or so, but in the meantime, here are some alternative ways to get around Vancouver.

BIKE-SHARING APPS

HOPR: Launched in July 2019, there are 200 dockless bikes (and over 80 bike-sharing hubs) available on UBC campus for students, faculty and community members. For a one-year membership costing $89, you will get 60 daily minutes of ride time and then an additional 10 cents charge per minute. Alternatively, you can test the waters by getting a one month pass for $15 and simply top up when needed.

Mobi by Shaw Go: Mobi is Vancouver’s public bike share program, with bikes available throughout central Vancouver. UBC students are eligible for discounted annual memberships*, but keep in mind that there are currently no Mobi docking stations at UBC. Consider a 60 minute 365-day membership — unlimited use of the bikes for up to 60 minutes at a time. Unlock a bike with a user code, Mobi fob or RFID card. *Discount code: ubcstudents or ubcstudentp

BIKE-RENTING FACILITIES

mountain bike for a full day, without extra charges. That’s where bike rentals come in. Spokes, located at 1798 W. Georgia St. offers several types of bikes with complimentary locks, helmets, baskets and bags. The starting rate for adult bikes is less than $10/hour, but you can opt for a half- or full-day discount. Other places include Yes Cycle and English Bay Bike rentals.

CAR-SHARING SERVICES

Modo: Modo is a locally-owned member carshare co-op. The affordable rates, diverse selection of vehicles and convenience to students throughout Metro Vancouver make it an attractive option for travel. A Modo plus membership has the lowest hourly rate (at just $4/hour including gas, insurance, maintenance and parking privileges) and offers awesome perks and promos such as discounts with Mobi by Shaw. Students with a learners or N license that are younger than 19 are eligible to join as a green member linked to a principal member. Evo and Zipcar are also worth checking out.

SCOOTERS

Looking for a fun way to move around downtown Vancouver? Download the Go Scoot app and hit the roads (in designated bike lanes) on a zero-emission e-scooter for a small mandatory activation fee and rate. Popular areas include Stanley Park and English Bay. Outside the designated geofence, the accelerator will slow down and cease operation. Now you have something to look forward to on Saturday!

ELECTRIC UNICYCLE

Fan of unconventional travel? Desire to impress people and form a crowd? Consider this pricey investment (typically in the thousands range). With research and some luck, you may find some good deals. U

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