We've all seen them in the movies, those swarms of yellow cabs lined up along Manhattan streets that can be a boon or a curse depending on your view-point. To the weary tourist in a bit of a time-crunch they can be a god-send.
Here are a few basic tips on all things taxi:
Hailing a cab (the act of flagging down a taxi):
Hailing a cab is a rite-of-passage of sorts. In reality the act itself is pretty straight forward. Stand on the curb, or slightly in the street (watch out for NYC buses!) and stick out your arm - think Lady Liberty here. If the cab is available (the numbers on the roof are lit) the cabbie will pull over. Voila, you've just hailed your cab!
Fares:
Fares within Manhattan are based on the following rate schedule:
Initial fare.............$2.50
Each 1/5 mile (4 blocks).$0.40
Each 1 minute idle.......$0.40
Peak surcharge...........$1.00 (after 4pm until 8pm Mon-Fri)
Night surcharge..........$0.50 (after 8pm until 6am)
Tolls....................$extra
Additional riders........FREE
Fares between JFK and Manhattan:
Fixed rate of $45 + toll/tips. Tolls should not be more than $4.57 as of the summer of 2009 and it is standard practice to tip 15-20%.
Fares between Manhattan and JFK
Not fixed and the meter rates outlined above would apply. Depending on the time of day hiring a car service might make more sense. Rates between car services do vary so contacting them to agree upon a rate is strongly advised.
Fares between LGA/Newark and Manhattan:
LGA is not a fixed fare however you can expect to pay between $20 and $40 plus tip/tolls. Tolls into Manhattan should not be more than the $4.57 already mentioned.
Newark (EWR) is a fare based on a rate schedule which is not publicly available, however the rate for most destinations within Manhattan will be between $40 and $60 plus toll/tips. Expect to pay at least $6 for tolls into the city. The standard 15-20% tipping rate applies here as well.
Helpful Hint: Most cabs accept major credit cards. Be sure to ask your cabbie before departing if you plan on paying with your card!
Here's a useful widget for estimating the cost of a cab ride within the city. Remember this is only an estimate and does not take into consideration traffic conditions or other unforeseen delays.NYCcabfare.com
Car services I've used in the past and found to be reliable (this is not a recommendation):
- Tel-Aviv Limo Service - 800-222-9888
- Dial 7 Limo Service - 800-777-8888 or 212-777-7777
by Joy@touriststop
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