Getting to and around Calgary

There are 300 early bird tickets, which saves you $200! We are optimistic that most of you will make use of this amazing offer and register now. For us as conference organizers, the earlier you register, the more time we will have to put together a wholesome, one of a kind and memorable event. For first time visitors to Calgary (and Canada), we have put this guide together to assist you in your travels.

Visa to Canada

Travelling to Canada is quite straightforward. Like many countries there are visas requirements which will vary according to your nationality. In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (bio-metrics) after you apply for a visa. As preparation for your travel, you need to do your research in good time. When in doubt, it’s best to ask. Learn about visiting Canada, find out if you need a visa and how to apply for a Canadian visa. Please note that FOSS4G does not provide invitation letters for visa

Travel Health

Canada does not pay for hospital or medical services for visitors. Credit card companies and airlines often offer travel health insurance when you book your flight. You should get health insurance to cover any medical costs before you come to Canada. It is your responsibility to check what vaccines or medicines you may need and visit your doctor at least eight weeks to a month before your trip. It is best to pack a travel health kit when preparing for your trip and learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip.

Getting to the venue

From the airport

This year’s conference will be held at the Calgary TELUS Convention Center (CTCC).

From the airport, the CTCC is a 20-minute drive by cab, sedan or rental vehicle. A limo from the airport to the CTCC will cost approximately $65, while a taxi will cost approximately $40. Taxis charge a base rate of $3.80 and an additional surcharge at the airport. Be sure to request for the right size of vehicle to accommodate the number of passengers and any luggage you have.

Find information on Limousines and taxi’s here. Rental cars are available in a variety of sizes and for any duration you wish in Calgary. Rental offices are located throughout Calgary, with a cluster of car rental desks at YYC Calgary International Airport and throughout downtown Calgary

Public transit

From within Calgary, the CTCC is can be reached by both Light Rail Transit lines and buses. For details, see Calgary Transit.

Walk

Except for the official FOSS4G hotel, Marriott Hotel (which is connected to the convention center by an above-ground indoor walkway), all accommodations for the conference are within 10 minutes’ walk from the venue.

Moving around and more

Getting around in Calgary is easy and convenient using Calgary Transit. Other ways to get around include:

Car rental and ride sharing: Ride sharing is a convenient mode of transportation with several organizations like Uber offering digital service in Calgary. Most cabs accept credit, debit, and cash. Tipping drivers 10-15 per cent of the total cost of your cab or limousine ride is customary in the area.

Cycling: Calgary has the most extensive urban pathway and cycle path network in North America, with approximately 850 kilometers of regional pathways and 95 kilometers of trails. Bike Calgary offers urban cycling skills courses to people looking to improve their confidence and cycling skills. Here is a list of places to rent a bike.

Walking: The downtown core is very walk-able, with plenty of way-finding signage to guide you to attractions, restaurants, and public art. The Plus 15 corridors connect several hotels, attractions, shopping centers, and buildings to allow pedestrians to travel indoors throughout the city center. View the Calgary walking guide.

Parking

Parking is available at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. The Calgary Parking Authority runs a 433-stall underground parkade. For a map, rates and hours, see Lot 60. For more parking information, see Downtown Calgary Parking.

Accessibility

While Calgary is an accessible destination with services and infrastructure available for everyone to safely and comfortably explore the city, the conference venue CTCC is fully accessible.