Taxis, Buses & Trains

In-country (local) transportation can present challenges.  If you’re planning your own trip, getting around comes down to three choices.  1) public transportation, 2) a rental car, or 3) arranging for a car and driver.  For trips between or within major cities, I prefer public transportation (taxis, subways, buses, and trains).  I generally purchase bus and train tickets via the Internet and well before I arrive.  The websites Rio2Rome and 12Go are useful for exploring the best mode of travel (plane, train, or bus) between cities. 

Most taxis in the developed world have meters that track time and distance in calculating your fare.  Elsewhere, you may be at the mercy of what the driver decides to charge you.  The best way to keep from being overcharged is to check with the desk clerk at your hotel (or another neutral party) about a typical cab fare for traveling to the airport or another frequently traveled destination.  After you hail a taxi but before you climb inside, tell the driver where you want to go and ask the price.  If the cost seems excessive, try another cab.  Whereas credit cards can sometimes be used to pay for cab rides in the developed world, it is unlikely that cab drivers in developing countries will accept them.  Again, ask before you get in.