How to Take a Taxi in a Foreign Country

Taking a taxi in foreign country can be stressful, but doing a little homework in advance can make the experience less daunting. Even if the driver's English is limited, ask them a simple question about the city you are in. The pride they have in their home and being impromptu ambassadors makes them an excellent source of information about your new surroundings. If they are not interested in offering their input, relax and enjoy the sights on the way to your destination.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Small denominations of the local currency
• Basic knowledge of where you are going

1. Prepare before arriving by getting familiar with the city map of your destination.
2. Write your first few destinations on note cards in both English and the local language (or electronically print the characters) including the phone numbers. Later, when you leave your hotel, pick up a business card at the concierge desk. It will note the hotel's address in the local language and alphabet. This can be handed to taxi drivers to ease your return. Also, learn about the major landmarks and where they are relative to your transportation hub and your hotel.
3. Be sure your taxi is legal. Avoid riding with drivers who approach you at train stations or airports offering rides. Though they may be harmless and just trying to make a buck, in many areas this is illegal, as these drivers are not registered. It's best to get a taxi from a taxi stand at the airport, a train station, a hotel, or other public place.
4. Before you get in, check to see if there are seat belts and air conditioning. In many areas the charge is the same for unequipped vehicles as for fully equipped vehicles. Also, mind your belongings. See what goes in the trunk and wait for it to be closed before getting in. Be sure to collect everything before leaving the taxi as well.
5. Ask the approximate cost of the trip before you get in and insist on the meter being used if there is one. At some airports, cabs do not have meters and the price is standard based on destination and tickets are often sold at a central kiosk. If the trip is round-trip (say, to a remote landmark) do not pay the driver until the trip is complete or they may leave you stranded.
6. Have small denominations of local money for tolls and tips. Familiarize yourself with the money beforehand and double-check that you have paid the correct amount.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't feel comfortable catching a cab on the street, go to the nearest large hotel. They generally have a bell stand or they can call a taxi for you.
• If you feel that you have been taken advantage of, note any identifying information about the driver and taxi. Work with the personnel at your hotel to make a complaint. If language is not a barrier, call the taxi company directly noting the time, date and trip taken. Do not expect much recourse, but if the complaint is made calmly it may help others in the future.