Taking a taxi can be intimidating the first time, but it needn’t be. Here are a few tips to increase your comfort level.
Remember that you are not the only person waiting for a taxi. Be aware of your surroundings, and if another person has been waiting for a taxi, do not run up and take it from them. Another one will arrive soon.
You may want to share a fare with another, even a stranger, to save money or get out of rain or snow faster. When sharing a fare, it is appropriate to split the cost.
When sharing taxis with friends who are headed in a similar direction, it is appropriate to share both the fare and the tip.
The most efficient way to do this is for each person exiting the taxi to give case to the remaining passenger. Many people turn the money away as a nice gesture, however this can actually create feelings of obligation on the part of the person who got the free ride, so it is generally better to let them pay their own way.
When both genders are riding together, it can be uncomfortable trying to figure out the protocol. But don’t worry. Traditionally, the man would get in the front seat, but if the woman is wearing a long skirt or other attire that may make it difficult to get in the back, she should be able to get in front. Women in long skirts may wish to be the last to get in the cab in order to avoid sliding across the back seat.
Generally the man gives directions to the driver, but it is more important that the person who knows the route best do so.
Common protocol on tipping is 15-20%. If you have a driver who does not follow your requested route, you may choose not to tip at all.
Check out more of this author’s work on things like carriage house garage doors and garage door prices.
