In London, whats the difference between a black cab and a minicab?
Black cabs, which took over from the horse-powered hackney carriage, are the world’s oldest taxi service. They are custom-built, diesel-powered cars with room for five passengers (and ample luggage). They can be hailed anywhere, any time they’re available—just look for an illuminated amber “Taxi” light. You can also find them at stands outside Heathrow Airport (but not at Gatwick), railway stations, and the larger hotels. The computerized fare—displayed on a meter—depends on a variety of factors, including length of ride, time of day, and speed. So be warned: Prices can soar even for a round-the-block trip. All fares start at £2.20 (about $3.50). There’s a minimum airport-transfer fee of £45 ($69) and a £40 ($61) fine for throwing up (so take it easy on the pints at the pub). Cabs can be ordered over the phone or online for a roughly 10 percent surcharge. And only a handful accept credit cards (usually with a 10 percent to 15 percent fee tacked on to the meter total). A 10 percent tip
Black cabs, which took over from the horse-powered hackney carriage, are the world’s oldest taxi service. They are custom-built, diesel-powered cars with room for five passengers (and ample luggage). They can be hailed anywhere, any time they’re available—just look for an illuminated amber “Taxi” light. You can also find them at stands outside Heathrow Airport (but not at Gatwick), railway stations, and the larger hotels. The computerized fare—displayed on a meter—depends on a variety of factors, including length of ride, time of day, and speed. So be warned: Prices can soar even for a round-the-block trip. All fares start at £2.20 (about $3.50). There’s a minimum airport-transfer fee of £45 ($69) and a £40 ($61) fine for throwing up (so take it easy on the pints at the pub). Cabs can be ordered over the phone or online for a roughly 10 percent surcharge. And only a handful accept credit cards (usually with a 10 percent to 15 percent fee tacked on to the meter total). A 10 percent tip
