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Jessica Alba was spotted out on a
Vélib’ on March 11, 2009 in Paris. Don’t you know
Jessica Alba? Of course, you do. She is the
Invisible Woman in the Fantastic Four!
And Vélib’? What’s that? Have a
look at this video…click
here.
Here are several YouTube videos about
Vélib’:
Bikes Belong presents: Vélib’
Vélib’ Paris JCDecaux M6
Vélib’ In Paris - How To Hire A Bike
Visit the official web site
www.velib.paris.fr.
For the brochure in English…click
here. Or, just Google Vélib’. You’ll get loads
of information about the means of transport that
delights some people, but irritates others.
Vélib’ has quickly become the darling
of Parisians and many tourists. Launched on July 15,
2007 by the Paris City Town Hall and the French
advertising group JC Decaux, Vélib’, a contraction of
vélo and liberté is a self-service bike scheme. The
project will enable the reduction of congestion and pollution.
You only need to buy a one-day, a month, or a year
subscription on the Internet or you can do it directly
on a Vélib’ terminal in any street, thanks to your
credit card.
(Note: Unfortunately, like many of the new kiosks in
Paris, it seems you need a so-called EMV chip equipped
credit card. All Euro cards have it, but most American
cards do not. Check with your credit card company to be
sure, or subscribe to Vélib’ in advance.)
The first half-hour is free, and the
second extra half-hour will cost you 1 euro.
Nonetheless, a 150 euro deposit will be charged if you
don’t bring the bike back. (No, you’re not allowed to
drop the Vélib’ into the Seine or take it away as a
souvenir with your luggage!)
Would you like to ride on a Vélib’ in
high-heeled shoes and a white skirt or an impeccable
suit? No problem. The derailleur (the gear-change
mechanism) makes it easy to pedal.
Would you like to do some shopping in Paris? You can
easily leave your bike in a different arrondissement
from your starting point. Be sure to fasten your Vélib’
onto a terminal. The light turns green when the bike is
secure. |
