Avoid Being Taken Advantages by Taxis in China

As Google and Google Maps are blocked in mainland of China, culture shock is even worse for foreigners. As an alternate, Baidu (search engine) with Baidu Maps is the most knowledgeable and convenient website to use locally. However, it is not in English.

Taking a taxi is time efficient and provides relatively private space. Although it costs more than other public transportation such as buses and subways, it is still less expensive than taxis in the United States and many other countries. However, there is a chance to be taken advantage of by a few local taxis driver. Usually by two ways:

1, The driver does not use the price meter, he/she names the price instead.

2, The driver does not go the shortest or fastest route, but picks a longer way instead. '

Steps

Know Your Rights

  1. Take taxis only from regulated companies, those normally are easily discernible from other cars.
  2. Ask the driver to use the Price meter. If the driver declines it for any reason, for example, the meter is not working, or the distance is within the minimum rate. You have the right to say stop and get out of the taxis.
  3. Take your receipt from the driver when you arrive.
  4. Feel free to call the taxi complaint number displayed inside and outside the car. Driver's name, license plate number should always be clearly displayed inside of the car as well.

Know Your Routes, Time And Fare

  1. Download two useful apps: These two apps are officially affiliated and are very convenient to use together.
    • Baidu maps (search "Baidu" and look down the list. DO NOT search "baidu maps")
    • Uber
  2. Open the Baidu map by tapping the icon on the screen.
  3. Find out your destination by either typing in and searching or exploring nearly. These might be a drop down list for you to choose as you give any key words.
  4. Tap the white round button ( 到这去 with an arrow)on the right of name of your destination.
  5. Tap " 我的位置 my location" to input your current location. There are three ways to do it based on your preference.
    • Use your smartphone to find the current location
    • Pick a location on the map （drop a pin ）
    • Manually type in the address
  6. Look at the distance and traveling time, estimated price of the taxi, and the number of traffic lights. Now you are prepared.Tap “分段浏览detailed route” to have a peek of the route. You'll have different options there. You can also switch your route or detour manually.Tap "用车 use a taxi" to go to "Uber", where the user interface is in English, and you are able to request a taxi there.
    • The app will automatically transfer to Uber, where you can request a taxi in an English interface.
  7. Enjoy your taxi scam free trip!
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