Taxis are one of the most convenient modes of transportation. From business men to holiday makers, and families, people around the world rely on taxis to get them safely from point A to B. When in unfamiliar cities or under pressure to get somewhere fast, hailing a taxi can be quite a challenge. Easy Taxi has listed expert advice that every passenger should know when hailing a taxi in 5 cab-capitals of the world:
New York City: The Big Apple is known for its tough taxi climate. The cliché movie moment when Sarah Jessica Parker simply hails a taxi by whistling, waving or flashing a smile, doesn’t exist in reality. New York City is one of the hardest cities to secure a cab. First thing a passenger should know is when the medallion number and the side lamps are lit, then the taxi is off duty. Be assertive, but do not pull out a bullhorn or flap your arms like a crazy person. If the corners are clogged with people, try a mid-street hail. In New York, you cannot pre-arrange a taxi ride and it turns out that hailing one by the road can be the faster option.
London: Just like the Queen, Harry Potter or tea, black cabs are a true symbol of the United Kingdom. In London you will not have a problem hailing a cab. When the word ‘TAXI’ is displayed,it means that the cab is available for use and when the light is off then it’s not. But you should know, that once you are inside the cab, the cost of the ride is likely to be prohibitive, so using them will leave a big dent in your pocket. Having said that, the London drivers know every spot, street and landmark so all you need to do is give them the name of your destination and they will find the quickest route to get you there!
New Delhi: In India, hailing a taxi may not be as simple as it is in London. Quite often you will not be able to hail a cab in the street, more often taxis are available on call or they are only active in designated areas. There are many taxi companies available however it is always better to pre-arrange your transportation plans in order to avoid an unpleasant rush. Although some of these taxis are not in the best condition, the alternative will be battling your way through crowds of people on foot, riding in a rickshaw, or on the back of a scooter.
Shanghai: Taking cabs in Shanghai is highly affordable and you will not have any trouble finding one. Bear in mind that communication in China is not simple as in the aforementioned cities, since the taxi drivers do not speak English. Do not leave the house without your address and your destination written down in Chinese, without it your driver will not be able to understand where you want to go.
Nairobi: In Nairobi, hailing a cab is an entirely different kettle of fish. First and foremost, people often use taxi drivers that are based within home or office location. Once a Taxi driver is used regularly, then you can arrange a payment plan or establish discounted rates with the driver. Otherwise taxis are stationed in various locations but if you are new to their service you will have to use your negotiation skills in order to get a fair rate. The better alternative is to pre-arrange your taxi ride in advance.
Guest post by Angela Mwandanda, head of PR at Easy Taxi.
