102 CultureShock! Austria
Unless you bought your ticket on the bus or tram, don’t
forget to validate it in a cancelling machine (Entwerter).
These small machines are usually found on the bus or tram,
at the entrance of U-Bahn stations and on the platforms of
the Schnellbahn.Fares for Children, Bikes and Dogs
Children up to the age of six ride free year-round, and children
up to the age of 15 can travel free on Sundays, public holidays
and national school holidays. Children over the age of six pay half
price during the school year and must always carry their student
identification card (Schülerausweis). Don’t forget the half priced
ticket for your bike and your furry friend!Taxis
With taxi stands throughout the city, it isn’t usual to hail a
taxi, although they have been known to stop if empty. Pay
what the meter reads, based on a per kilometer charge and
a small transportation levy. On Sundays, public holidays,
and from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am, both charges go up. Tip
5–10 per cent of the fare. If calling in advance for a taxi, the
dispatcher will ask for the district (if in Vienna) and house
address. If you are going away and have lots of luggage or
have children, ask for a large wagon (Kombiwagen). If you
are going to the airport, call a taxi service the night before
and you will get a discounted rate.INTRA-CITY AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
Trains
Austria has excellent rail connections to major European
destinations. Trains are efficient, safe, clean and reliable. It
is best to reserve a seat if you intend to travel on a holiday
or in the summer.
Stops are usually announced via loudspeaker. Sometimes,
especially when going through some mountain resorts, there
is a chance your stop won’t be announced. Julie was in such
a situation, and had to run and throw herself and the bags
out the door at her stop.