Rick Steves Warns Us About Europe's Worst Taxi Scams
By Jenna Busch
VACATIONS
Being scammed by a taxi driver can put a huge damper on your European vacation. Luckily, with a few tips from travel expert Rick Steves, you can avoid these scams easily.
Use an official taxi stand whenever you can. If you don't see posted prices, ask the attendant (or a police officer) if there is a flat rate to your neighborhood or destination.
Steves says via his website, "Avoid using unmarked beaters with makeshift taxi lights on top." He also advises that the company logo is clearly displayed on legitimate taxis.
Before you get in, take pictures of the outside and the license plate. Tell the driver that you're sending them to a friend at your destination so they know which car to look for.
Steves recommends asking the driver for an estimate or reiterating the flat fee. Also, look up which fees are legal in the country, like weekend fees, extra baggage, or surcharges.
If a driver says the meter is broken or it will be cheaper without it, get another cab. Steves also suggests paying with small bills and getting your luggage out before you pay.