How to Safely Order Local Taxis
When on vacation in foreign countries the most important thing to remember is to watch out for the local taxis. You will be recognized as a tourist immediately. They will raise the rates and drive you on the scenic route to raise the fair if they even bother to turn on the meter. The best ways to avoid getting ripped off by local taxis are:
- Rent a car.
- If you do not drive in the local Taxis they can not steal your money.
- Ask the hotels concierge how much it should cost to get where you want to go, and also if they know a good driver.
- most hotels will know several of the locals Taxis and will be glad tell you who to use and who to avoid.
- Argue the price with the driver.
- If you argue the price they will think you are not some sucker tourist and will take you more seriously.
- Make sure when using local Taxis you only use licensed and registered cabs.
- In some countries someone may claim to be a taxi but they are not and you risk being kidnapped and that will ruin a vacation.
- If the driver does not turn on the meter do not tip the taxi driver. Chances are he is not reporting the fair and will keep the money.
- Make sure someone stays in the car when you are removing the bags from the trunk. If you are in the car alone with the driver ask him for his help so he has to get out of the car also. This will make it impossible for him to drive away with your bags. Also keep your valuables in your carryon and keep your carryon in the Taxi with you.
These are some of the things I have learned about the local taxis in the places I have traveled on my trips abroad. I hope you have found them helpful, and I hope they help you have a better and safer trip abroad.