The City of Paris, in partnership with advertising company JCDecaux, has launched one of the most advanced public bicycle program in recent times.
There are over 1,400 stations throughout the city where bicycles are available. It's claimed that one is never further than 200-300 meters from one of these stations. What's more, there are now even dedicated cycling lanes on some streets.
You first need to confirm a subscription for either 1 day (1 euro), 1 week (5 euros) or year (29 euros) to be able to use the system, and from there on the rest is quite simple and very practical.
Subscriptions may be obtained online at Vélib, however at the present time the english version of the site is not entirely translated from french. Subscriptions are also available at one of the Vélib service stations. (Note: A debit/credit card with an electronic chip is required to use one of the kiosks).
Once you have your subscription, a bicycle is yours to use for free for the first 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the subscription is charged to your card, along with the following rates:
• 1st additional half hour: 1 €
• 2nd additional half hour: 2 €
• From the 3rd additional half hour: 4€ per additional half hour
If you decide to keep the bicycle for more than 24 hours, Vélib will charge 150 € to your bank card.
Experience and discover the charming streets of Paris by bicycle on your next trip! Be sure to ride safely though as bicycling helmets are not offered nor a custom.
By Margaret Li on Sunday, May 25, 2008 @ 10:12 PM
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