Transport alternatives to cars

Principle

Limit as much as possible use of personal cars for tourism, whether for travel to the destination or for day trips from the place of accommodation.

Make staff aware of other means of transport.

Explanations

The use of personal vehicles engenders many harmful effects, that need to be mitigated: pollution, operating costs, traffic congestion, parking problems, etc.

Guests and staff may appreciate being informed of other options, and this may be an incentive for them to use other means of transport.

Implementation

Inform customers and staff and raise awareness of other means of transport.
Provide as much information as possible on transport to your establishment – bus, coach, train, seasonal shuttle, etc. – either orally or on your website.

Explain details of itinerary, schedule and costs as clearly as possible. Where does one buy tickets? Is exact change required? What line does one take, in which direction, to which stop? Describe in detail the itinerary on foot from the stop to the final arrival point.

Give links to relevant websites.

Provide information to customers and seasonal workers so that they do not have to use their personal vehicle: bus, coach, train, seasonal shuttle, closest station or bus stop, transport service maps, schedules, fares.
Inform visitors if your establishment can be reached by footpath or bicycle path. Indicate the nearest place to rent bicycles.
Create a fleet of bicycles available at your establishment (standard or electric bikes), or develop a partnership with rental company.
Propose shared-ride services for customers (for example, fill up cars with guests who want to go a the local market).
Suggest pedestrian itineraries for getting into town and for visiting local sites of interest.

Costs

None

Benefits

Practical concerns: cut down on traffic near and within the establishment > fewer adverse effects
Environmental concerns: reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Economic gains: customers save money on gas while avoiding traffic and parking difficulties.

Constraints

A preliminary survey of transport options must be compiled, and then regularly updated. Local tourism offices often have a good deal of useful information.