By Leonard posted on 23 Feb 2010, 03:38
Most taxi drivers in China have very limited English, so its useful to keep a few simple tips in mind when taking a taxi journey in China.
- When you check in to your hotel, remember to put their business card in your wallet. If you get lost in the city, you can always show taxi driver the card to get back to your hotel.
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Getting a taxi in Beijing is like in New York, the easiest way is to hail a taxi on the street. Normally if the taxi is vacant, they show a small red sign beside the driver. If not it means the taxi is occupied or driver is off duty.
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The initial mile will cost you Euro1 which is 10 yuan, after that every mile is Euro 20c.
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When you get on a taxi, make sure the driver uses the meter. There is no extra charges for an extra person or bags.
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Taxi is the easiest way to travel around Beijing. There are also public transport options available for as little as Euro 10c by bus, which can bring you anywhere in Beijing. The down side off this though is no one speaks English on the bus and each stop will be called out quickly in Chinese. It can be very confusing. The subway can be good and it will only cost you Euro 30c each way, but try to get a ticket from the machine or buying from the box office requires basic Chinese.
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Try avoid using public transport during rush hours: 6am to 9am or 4pm to 7pm. Take my word on this!