Holidaymakers have been issued a stark warning about a taxi scam that could see them paying double for their journey. Social media users have cautioned travellers – specifically those heading to Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris – to be wary when hailing a taxi to their accommodation.
It’s reported that some drivers prey on tourists at the airport arrival gates, offering a ride to Paris city centre but charging an exorbitant €120 for what should typically be a €62 trip. As city breaks become more popular during the autumn and winter seasons, specialist taxi insurance broker ChoiceQuote has offered some crucial advice to help people avoid falling for such scams.
The golden rule is to steer clear of drivers who approach you first and instead organise your own transport with a trusted company or organisation. However, determining which taxi firms are trustworthy can be tricky, so it’s recommended to do your research before arriving at your holiday destination.
You can also seek advice from the airport information desk or your hotel reception about the best providers to use.
If you’re unable to do so, it’s crucial to pay extra attention to the taxi branding or markings on the exterior of the vehicle to confirm they hold the appropriate licence. Unlicensed vehicles pose a higher risk of scams, reports Chronicle Live.
Always enquire about the fare before embarking on your journey. This way, you can avoid any surprise charges.
It’s also a good idea to jot down your destination in the local language to prevent any potential misunderstandings.
Another common taxi scam abroad involves drivers intentionally taking longer routes in metered vehicles to charge passengers more for the trip. This is particularly prevalent with tourists who are assumed not to know the quickest route to their destination.
When travelling in a taxi in an unfamiliar location, it’s important to check the route on a GPS to ensure the driver takes the most efficient route possible. This will help you avoid paying more than necessary for your ride.
If you opt to pay by card, always inspect the card machine before making payment. Some drivers have been known to ‘accidentally’ overcharge passengers on their credit or debit cards without their knowledge. For instance, you might find yourself charged €600 for a €6 journey upon reaching your destination.