Think of the route taxis as akin to buses in the US or Canada. I just use them to get between towns, from bus terminal to bus terminal, When I do that they treat me like they'd treat any Jamaican. E.g. I squeeze into a seat in the Sav->Negril route taxi and pay my 200J for the 25km ride, and sit back and relax and enjoy. I avoid private taxis for exactly the reason you describe, Ryan. They want to charge me tourist prices and it turns into a hassle. For within-town rides I just use my bicycle.