A Taxi Makeover in Cairo Too
September 12th, 2006 Posted in Cheap Africa Travel, Destination reports, Travel industry
A few posts back I linked to a story on how Prague’s taxi fleet was due for an upgrade. Apparently the cabs in Cairo are heading the same route, which will certainly upgrade the tourist experience for most visitors there.
This odd C.S. Monitor article, Cairo’s classic cabs get snubbed, makes it sound as if there are people out there who thought Cairo’s taxi situation was “charming.” That’s not a word I’ve ever heard being used to describe the situation there. The usual descriptions aren’t fit to be printed here. The cars are falling apart, the scam artists driving them argue about every fare, and if you take one at night it will be a harrowing experience–usually with no headlights on. “But these cabs are so much a part of this crazy city that I hate to see them go,” the writer says, “especially since I long ago mastered the art of hailing these relics and haggling over the fare.”
Yeah, and having a hundred people at the pyramids bugging the crap out of you as you approach is also such a fabric of the city that gosh, we would hate to see them go.
Here’s the bright new world:
“Earlier this year, the Egyptian government launched a fleet of spanking-new yellow taxis complete with air conditioning, credit-card-friendly meters (that work), phones, seat belts, spotless vinyl seating, rear- and side-view mirrors, windows that close, doors that open, and drivers in suits and ties who don’t smoke, blast the radio, or yell.
The government hopes that these cars (and drivers) will be more welcoming for the country’s citizens and tourists alike.”
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One Response to “A Taxi Makeover in Cairo Too”
By Nora on Sep 13, 2006
What is Cairo with the black and white taxis? They are the primary form of transportation here. Word of advice: negotiate BEFORE entering the taxi. Let the taxi driver know where you are going and set the price. 7 LE is average for the native, count on 20-25LE as a foreigner. This will make the ride much more relaxing…although you will still be praying for your life as they race between the cars to get you to the destination. And be prepared - The drivers I will always try to talk to you - there is no such thing as silence. Egyptians love conversation.
And one more thing of note…tried to take a yellow taxi one time. Good luck - I think the government meant a fleet of 5. They are no where to be found. Enjoy!