Local Time
Warning to visitors: Maniacal Cab Drivers

Amsterdammers have a dangerous element in their midst - the cab drivers. While bikes are maneagable (yes, when you hear that bell ringing urgently, don't go left then right then left again and end up back in the middle of the street- go to the closest sidewalk!), Amsterdam cabs are just as reckless but with a lot more weight! They especially like to harrass bike riders, and will push them off the road without a glance back.

Also a complaint against the cabbies- the prices. If you're coming as a tourist, be warned that any cabs picked up from Centraal Station will charge you twice as much as a normal fair (even if you are speaking Dutch) to go ANYWHERE, so if you do not have a lot of bags or luggage, it's worth it to walk a ways away from the station and then attempt to pick one up (possibly Dam Square, down Damrak). The prices of Amsterdam cabs are someof the highest in the world, and this is a general sentiment, not solely my own.

Therefore, when you come to visit this city, if you are physically able to use the bikes, even if you have to re-learn, do it! And if you opt for the various bike rentals, or if you are a walker, keep a careful eye out- they will seem to be aiming straight for you. As well, the public transport here is a thing to be admired- very decent and regular. Good luck, I wish you a safe visit!

TrackBack

TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://www.trippist.com/mt/mt-tb.cgi/371