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Getting around Phoenix

Public transport: 

Phoenix is built on a grid system and is divided into smaller districts that are treated as individual towns. Although public transport is available, the best way to navigate the area is by car. However, Valley Metro (tel: (602) 253 5000; www.valleymetro.org) operates buses and its RideShare system connects commuters with van and carpools. Maps, schedules and fare options are available online. The Metro Light Rail service provides access to the airport, the convention centre and other main city locations. Valley Metro also provides a variety of passes to assist travellers in Phoenix. The packages vary depending upon how many days travel is required and the distance the journeys will be. The general passes are for one, seven or 31 days long. Craigslist also runs a local rideshare forum: http://phoenix.craigslist.org/rid/.

Taxis: 

Taxis must be booked in advance by telephone. Main operators are: Sunrise Cab (tel: (602) 468 3618) and Aguilas (tel: (602) 455 4500).

Car hire: 

The US has an agreement with most countries that national driving licences, including the UK’s, are valid for up to a year. Optional CDW (collision damage waiver) insurance is recommended, if not already covered by the driver's own policy. Minimum hiring age ranges from 21 to 25, depending on rental companies. Major companies include Alamo (tel: 1 877 222 9075; www.alamo.com), Avis (tel: 1 800 331 1212; www.avis.com), Budget (tel: 1 800 527 0700; www.budget.com), Hertz (tel: 1 800 654 3131; www.hertz.com) and Thrifty (tel: 1 800 367 2277; www.thrifty.com).

Bicycle hire: 

Try Cactus Bike Rental, at 4747 East Elliot Road and 1960 South Alma School Road, Chandler (tel: (480) 940 7433; www.cactusbike.com), they rent a variety of bikes and helmets.

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