Luxembourg (the first city with free public transport)
While in England, councils, town planners and transport officials fight it out over how much to charge people to use the bus and train, in Luxembourg, it has become the first country in the world to offer free public transport (like us, it’s a country with high car ownership).
People (and their pets) can travel for free on all buses, trains and trams, an idea designed to discourage unnecessary car use and reduce traffic congestion and road repairs.
All travel is ticketless (first-class travel still requires a paid ticket, which helps to fund the service). People travelling over the border have to buy tickets from when they leave Luxembourg. And users must show valid ID to conductors, if requested (although the service is free to non-residents and people of any nationality).
In Luxembourg, the National Roads Authority runs overnight checks, to ensure roads are in good order (then staff are paid overtime to mend potholes at night).
Where is Luxembourg?
One of the world’s smallest (you can drive across it in less than an hour) and richest countries, it’s sandwiched between France, Belgium and Germany in western Europe. Most people speak Luxembourgish, German and French:
Tipptopp (Luxembourgish for ‘excellent or great!’
Know for its castles and wine, let’s hope Trump doesn’t want it, as it’s national motto is Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sinn.
This is also one of the world’s safest countries. There are only three jails – and the cells are mostly empty.
Free On-Demand Transport in Miami
In Miami (Florida), a great company offers free on-demand electric buses and cars. These vehicles are paid for by local ads.
Local shops offer deals to encourage people to ride to their area (many people don’t visit out-of-town due to traffic, petrol prices or poor public transport). And friendly dogs ride for free!
What a great idea! Why has not someone thought of transplanting this idea to England? It could reduce car ownership (and debt), yet give all the convenience of riding in cars, without any of the hassle, and far less traffic and pollution.
