My new commute!

topcat33
topcat33 Posts: 57
edited October 2008 in Commuting chat
I've been a long time commuter in all of the many jobs I've had.

Now we've moved to Canada (Calgary) I have a new commute! It's about 12 miles each way to the city, 10 miles of it through a park! It's not been too cold yet but I'm sure that will change. I'm kind of looking forward to the snow.

I have to say the biggest change I've noticed apart from the lack of rain is how much they are into cycling here, very different to the UK. My last commute in the UK was in Cornwall and I had many a run in with motorists and yobs.

A month into commuting here and not one run in, unless you count a coyote I saw one day.

Here, the car is not king, strange really as most people drive big trucks. People just seem more easy going and don't mind waiting that extra second for a safe place to overtake you.

I just thought I'd share what it's like over here.

Comments

  • Bugly
    Bugly Posts: 520
    I remember Calary with great fondness - a fun city with a young population. I recall the locals making the most of every break in the weather in winter to get outdoors.

    You may be disappointed with the snow in Calgary. Some winters it comes very late and then doesnt stick around as the chinooks come up and melt it.

    Choice mountainbiking in Kananskis country too - just keep an eye out for grizzlies early in the season and late fall when they are laying on the fat.

    Cheers

    Robert
  • girv73
    girv73 Posts: 842
    topcat33 wrote:
    It's about 12 miles each way to the city, 10 miles of it through a park! It's not been too cold yet but I'm sure that will change. ... A month into commuting here and not one run in, unless you count a coyote I saw one day.

    me == jealous

    Another tick in the "Moving to Canada: Pros" column.
    Today is a good day to ride
  • Wrath Rob
    Wrath Rob Posts: 2,918
    Banff isn't too far up the road and the 'boarding at Lake Louise, Sunshine and Norquay is fantastic
    FCN3: Titanium Qoroz.
  • always_tyred
    always_tyred Posts: 4,965
    Yes, there's so much snow that not even snowboarders can scrape it all off the mountain.
  • Bugly
    Bugly Posts: 520
    found the groomed runs at Nakiska great - also Fortress is a nice experience and never crowded.

    BTW staying on the SW side of Calgary is optimal :wink: shortest distance to Rockies for the arvo ski or day ride.
  • topcat33
    topcat33 Posts: 57
    Thanks for the info guys.

    On my ride in, about half way, I have a great view of the Rockies and the City. I'll try and post some pictures.
  • dirk_van_gently
    dirk_van_gently Posts: 826
    I hate you already :-)
    If you see the candle as flame, the meal is already cooked.
    Photography, Google Earth, Route 30
  • Mithras
    Mithras Posts: 428
    Can't get the family to move or I would be joining Calgary Plod like a shot!
    I can afford to talk softly!....................I carry a big stick!
  • SmellTheGlove
    SmellTheGlove Posts: 697
    Lucky man - already dreaming of snow here. Where are those pix?

    A friend of mine - born Calgary - worked as a courier there all through two winters. Apparently you just need to find a way to prevent your nose turning black and dropping off.
    "Consider the grebe..."
  • topcat33
    topcat33 Posts: 57
    Mithras, I had the same problem, so I said let's move over for 2 years and see what you think, she loves it now! :wink:

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