London’s vast and bustling streets can be daunting for any traveller, especially when considering long-distance journeys. Public transport, while extensive, can be crowded and time-consuming. Here’s where the iconic black cabs come in, offering a surprisingly strong case for long-distance travel within the city.
In a city of nearly 10 million residents, it is time you know how the iconic black taxis of London can be a great choice for long-distance travel.
Major Problems faced in long-distance travel
Let’s address some major problems faced during long-distance travel in London:
Heavy On The Pocket:
Bus fares can add up, when you are accounting for multiple travellers. Exploring the Underground with luggage can be a nightmare, and unexpected delays can mean buying additional tickets, which can easily add up to your travel costs.
Getting Lost:
Unfamiliar routes and confusing signage can leave you stranded, wasting precious time and energy. This is particularly true if you are visiting London for the first time.
Getting Sick:
Crowded buses and trains, during peak hours, can expose you to germs, especially inconvenient on long journeys. If you are travelling with kids, they can easily get sick. Post COVID pandemic, always carry a sanitiser and wear a mask to keep yourself and your little ones safe.
Getting Mugged:
London is typically known to be one of the world’s safest cities. With a cooperating police, and a large number of people following law and order, London is a great place for leisure and business travellers. With that being said though, not all areas of London are safe, and if you are roaming around during the dark, there are chances you can get mugged. Knife attacks are common during night in areas riddled with drugs and gang fights.
Time-Consuming:
Waiting for trains, navigating connections, and dealing with delays can eat into your precious time in London. Already one of the biggest cities of England, if you have not planned your stay and travel, you can easily end up wasting your precious time. Hence, a black cab London is the best answer to ensure you always reach your destination on time.
How Black Cabs Can Be A Perfect Choice To Counter These Issues:
Black cab taxi offers compelling solution to these problems:
- Fixed fares: No surprises on arrival. You can get a quote beforehand for peace of mind, especially helpful for budgeting.
- Knowledgeable Drivers: All of the drivers are hired locally, and hence have a good knowledge of their surrounding areas. Without maps, these drivers can drive anywhere in London.
- Comfort and Privacy: Spacious interiors, comfortable seating, and a private environment make long journeys pleasant, especially compared to crowded trains or buses.
- Safety and Security: Private hire taxis are licensed and regulated, offering a safe travel option, especially at night compared to navigating unfamiliar areas on public transport.
- Direct Routes: Unlike public transport with multiple stops, black cabs take you directly to your destination, saving time that would otherwise be wasted on connections and waiting.
What To Look For When Choosing A Black Cab:
- The illuminated yellow TAXI sign indicates availability.
- Official markings ensure you’re getting a licensed driver.
- Positive passenger reviews on ride-hailing apps like Gett can be helpful for choosing a reliable driver.
Summing It Up
While elite taxi services might seem like a traditional choice, they offer a surprisingly strong case for comfortable, efficient, and hassle-free long-distance travel within London. When considering factors like predictability of cost, navigating an unfamiliar city, passenger comfort, safety, and efficiency, black cabs can be a compelling option compared to public transport for long-distance journeys in London.
If you are looking for a guaranteed service with the best rates, then look no further than Elite Airport Transfer for the best and fixed fares in pre-booked rides. Our service is at par with black cabs.
Why do people take black cabs?
There are a number of reasons why people use black taxis in London. Here are a few of them:
- Convenience: You can hail these taxis on the street or pre book them, offering flexibility and ease of travel.
- Comfort: Spacious interiors and comfortable seating make long journeys enjoyable.
- Safety: Licensed drivers and a secure environment offer peace of mind, especially at night or with valuables.
- The Knowledge: Drivers’ extensive knowledge of London ensures efficient routes and avoids getting lost.
- Sightseeing: You can get to see the city and the historical insights from experienced drivers.
How do you use a black cab in London?
There are three ways to do so:
- Hail one on the street: Look for the illuminated yellow TAXI sign on the roof. If it’s lit, the cab is available. You can easily call it, negotiate the fare and then continue with your destination.
- Pre-book by phone: Many black cab companies offer phone booking services.
- Use a ride-hailing app: Apps like Gett allow booking black taxis and offer features like fare estimates and driver reviews.
How many miles can a London taxi do?
A taxi company is known for its durability of their taxis. There’s no official mileage limit, but they are built to last for hundreds of thousands of miles. This means that a black taxi in London can easily go upwards of 300,000 miles without causing significant damage to the engineer.
What are the black cabs in London called?
Officially, they are called taxis or London black cabs. The term “black cab” is the most widely used and instantly recognizable. In fact, these taxis have become the global brand symbol and identity of travelling in London.
Is London Black Cab more expensive than Uber?
The cost can vary depending on distance, time of day, and traffic. You typically enjoy a fixed fare structure, while Uber uses a dynamic pricing model. For longer distances, black cabs can sometimes be a more predictable option.
How many passengers can a London Black cab carry?
London black cabs can comfortably seat 5 passengers, making them a good option for small groups or families travelling together. However, anything beyond 5 passengers can get quite uncomfortable. We strongly recommend having no more than 4 passengers for the best travel experience in comfort, style, elegance and luxury in London.
