If you discuss the fare ahead of time, then by definition you are negotiating.
Asking "route taxi?" is perfect because there is no mention of money, simply what kind of taxi the driver intends to be in this situation.
As for Mike's situation, he could have argued his case and even waited for the police to show up. The law would be on his side. The driver would have to had a "Charter" sign in the front window.
But being on vacation, how much is your valued vacation time worth?
As I have stated more times than I am able to remember, the local route taxi system was designed for locals and not with visitors in mind.
This is exactly the reason that the Tourism Transport Associations (JUTA, JCal, Maxi, etc.) were created in the first place.
You are on vacation. Enjoy all of it and don't sweat the small stuff. Please feel free to take any of the licensed and legal drivers in our Transport section. We know them all personally.
Most if not all offer free cellphone use so you can call them from wherever you are and let them know where you want to go. If they are unavailable, ask if they can get a driver for you.
As a side note, with the new transport regulations coming up, if you are caught in an illegal taxi, you will be guilty of the crime of aiding and abetting the illegal driver.
Always use legal taxis.
Negril.com - For the vacation that never ends!
When Linston picks us up Thursday, I'll discuss a few arrangements for our trip. I know sand gravity well, but we will certainly be hitting the cliffs for each of our birthdays, and maybe a day trip. Last thing I need is stress over a few bucks, especially on our vacation! 36 hour to go...really anxious now!
When do the new regulations go into play, Rob? Since our incident a few years back, I'm taxi-shy, and only take charters, but it's always been surprising to me just how many private cars stop and ask us if we need a ride when walking.
Moose,
It has more to do with changing the fines. When the laws we first written, the J$ was about par with the US$
A J$250 fine is not a deterrent to anything. Costs more to write the ticket. Most amendments are to once again make breaking traffic laws something to avoid...
Negril.com - For the vacation that never ends!
Mi Irie
~Just my two cents worth - I mostly only comment on places I've seen and or eaten at personally.
The robot taxis are an issue, but this is the first major re-write of the traffic laws in years.
Cellphones, car tinting, cycle licensing/registration, speed limits and much more are being brought up to date.
Negril.com - For the vacation that never ends!