Saturday May 17, 2008

Puerto Rico's flat-rate prices and competitive meters make taxis an economic convenience

One Cab, Two Cab

Travelers familiar with transportation in the Caribbean are often pleasantly surprised to discover that taxi service in Puerto Rico is some of the most reliable and convenient available. A government-regulated standard ensures that rates are stable, making taxis feasible for both short-distance trips to tourist centers and longer trips into more remote areas of the countryside.

Upon arriving in Puerto Rico, most vacationers have no problem locating a taxi at their airport or marina. Special tourist taxis are ideal for visitors headed toward the hotels and sights and can be easily distinguished by their white color and the logo on their side. These operate on a zone system, which means that certain taxis run only in certain areas, ensuring that travelers are able to establish flat-rate fares to their destination.

From Luis Mu�oz Marín International Airport
Destination Rate
Isla Verde $8(USD)
Condado/Miramar $12(USD)
Piers in Old San Juan $16(USD)
Adjuntas $124(USD)
Aguadilla $117(USD)
Arecibo $80(USD).
Cabo Rojo $145(USD)
Caguas $50(USD)
Canovanas $42(USD)
Cata�o $25(USD)
Fajardo $65(USD)
Guaynabo $25(USD)
Isabela $105(USD)
Luquillo $60(USD)
Mayag�ez $140(USD)
Ponce $110(USD)
Ricón $134(USD)


From Old San Juan Piers
Destination Rate
Old San Juan $6(USD)
Puerta de Tierra $6(USD)
Condado/Miramar $10(USD)
Isla Verde $16(USD)

Vacationers who are interested in seeing other areas of Puerto Rico should have no problem finding non-zoned taxis, which are all universally metered. The initial fee of $1(USD) is added to the $0.10(USD) charged per 1/3 mile. Other fees are generally applicable, including excessive luggage, waiting time, night travel, and reserved rides. Visitors wishing to take a tour are able to charter a taxi for a rate of $20(USD) per hour.

Taxis are a great way to see the area and save travelers the hassle of parking on an island where space is rather limited. Zoned taxis are convenient for those who would like to experience the major tourist locales, while scenic exploration of the less populated regions can be done from one of the many metered taxis. Both provide unbeatable service for vacationers who would rather spend their time enjoying the sights of Puerto Rico than trying to find them.