Miami Taxi
The traveler’s conundrum of taxi VS transfer is universally applicable to all tourist destinations. Even Miami, with its highly advanced modes of public transportation, challenges the tourist in the regard. Essentially, the problem often comes down to a struggle between convenience and price, but there are often further factors at play. By considering the pros and cons of these different elements, the following discussion will help you decide which option is more suitable for your Miami vacation.
Finding a Taxi
Having spent hours sitting in the cramp-inducing seats of the economy class, you probably don’t want to wait for a taxi. The taxi waiting game can be particularly frustrating in Miami, because the drivers have a penchant for driving past you. If you are fortunate enough to wave down a thoroughly uninterested transport provider, he may reject you on the ground that your (3 mile) journey is too short to make it worthwhile.
Miami taxi drivers have garnered a notorious reputation for refusing to accept journeys that they regard as too short. Under Floridian law, taxi drivers, who reject a potential passenger, face a fine of up to $500 for such an offense – this, however, does not deter all taxi drivers from being selective.
In contrast, transfers are pre-negotiated and tourists have the assurance of arriving back to the hotel at a scheduled time. This small benefit could save you hours of vacation time, which can then be spent on hotel pick-up sticks or some other immensely exciting vacation activity.
Family Policy
Unless you are blessed with a selfless group of family members, your toddler will have to join you on your Miami vacation. Miami taxi drivers are obligated to provide young passengers with a safety seat. This rule, though admirable, leaves families with young children in the precarious position of being stranded on the side of the road, while scores of taxis, without the necessary baby seating, drive by.
Safety Seat for Children
The obvious benefit of a transfer is that the company will be informed of your family’s specific requirements and they will be able to prepare in accordance with these needs. There is no risk of standing in the rain, on the side of the road as buses kick up tidal waves of muddy water onto your white summer dress.
Cost
In Miami, a 15 minute taxi trip will cost you approximately $30 dollars – but, this excludes the $2 surcharge for journeys originating at the airport. The taxis are generally metered, but they do also offer a fixed rate to certain destinations. To get to the Miami Port from the airport will cost you approximately $24 dollars at a fixed rate. Tipping is not obligatory, but failing to do so is regarded as extremely rude – always remember to increase your price estimation by about ten percent.
The cost of a private airport transfer in Miami will largely depend on the company that you select to travel with. The price range is often dependent on the acuteness of your lust for luxury. If high-end service is what you desire, you are going to have to pay high-rolling prices. Gray Line’s standard Miami airport transfers cost from $15 to $33 per person. If you prefer grand traveling, then you have the luxury vehicle options, which will set you back between $140 and $280 per car – the choice is entirely up to you.