Please explain taxi situation in Jamaica??

Question

I posted a few weeks ago that my daughter and I are going to Ochi (I'm quite comfortable using that nick name now!) soon for 1 week and I thank everyone who responded, big help! I've been reading more and see comments about taxis of different colors over there. Can someone explain the differences? Which ones should we use??

Answer 1

its quite simple any car can be a taxi as long as its license plate is red

Answer 2

any car can be a taxi in Jamaica

they need to have red license plates, though.

Answer 3

Just dont get ripped off. taxi drivers know tourist and the charge $200 when its $100....best believe

Answer 4

We have duly regulated taxis (red licensed plates) but also many "robot" taxis. These are taxis that does not yet meet all the state requirements but still 'hustle'.

[The process of gaining approval by from the government is very cumbersome, I must admit]

Taxis give you a great opportunity to 'rap' with our locals and learn even more about our country.

Most, if not all, of the hotels have dedicated and approved taxi operators outside their doors that are very knowledgeable about Jamaica and are eager to help. That's an great option right there for you!

Outside of those though, I would only suggest taxis if you are familiar with the places and/or have a local friend to guide you...http://www.my-island-jamaica.com/getting...

Answer 5

The white ones are Juta or something like that but if you are at the airport probably they will tell you the fixed rate that is mega-over charged and live it or take it they dont negociate rates there. On the streets are diferent and I suggest you to go by half of whatever they tells you. They are aggresive and very money oriented.  At the hotel if you call a taxi you just have to take so it is better if you go outside to find one that suites you

Answer 6

Route Taxis are cheaper than others, but they pick up and drop off at major locations. They don't drop you at your specific location. Cheapest way to travel around is public buses, but they are really crowded because they don't leave until the bus is literally jam packed.Public buses are pretty entertaining rides and very economical if you want to travel to other parts of the country.