sharky60
Contributor
this is why I rent a car when I'm there.
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Imagine you were in Chinatown in San Francisco, and you became aware that the shop owners were charging white people a different price to Orrientals, how would you feel?
This same discussion happens over and over. If you are going to go to Cozumel, ask the price before you get in the cab. If you are concerned with being ripped of for a couple of bucks, do what you need to do to make sure you don't get ripped off. Cozumel isn't the only place you can get screwed by a taxi driver. It happens everywhere. If it so bothersome, then beware and take steps to prevent it.
I think this is where people usually have problems but, if it is a buck or 2 I am no worried about it, I am on vacation which works for me. It might not work for you.
this is why I rent a car when I'm there.
Honestly, I think that all this concern is overblown. So a taxi driver screws you out of a dollar. So what? It's a dollar. Yes, it adds up. In a week's visit it could add up to <gasp> ten dollars.
I am reasonably prudent, paying in pesos, carrying small bills and coins, and knowing generally how much rides cost. But if I get caught unprepared and get taken for a dollar, it's not a big deal. Comparing these small time guys with the mafia is laughable.
As important as tourism is to the island residents, it is insulting isn't it. And you know they're already charging as much as they can with approved fare cards, which they don't like showing.Dude... You are LOST. It is not about why or how much.. it is about morality, honesty and professional business practice. Behavior like that gives all in that business a "black eye". A collective and organized attempt to defraud and misrepresent to perpetuate a crime is what "mafia" means.
Well, it's $1 USD = [-]12.94[/-] 12.89 MXN on Wall Street, today. I doubt the local bank allows that rate, before fees, after standing in line, once they get there, etc.Anybody enjoy the 200 for 20 peso switcheroo game at the Pemex?