Taking Taxis in Singapore
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If you fancy a quicker and less hectic way of travelling, consider taking a taxi around Singapore instead. Fares for taxi rides are relatively more expensive than taking the MRT or buses (approximately $0.67-$3.00 a ride) but remain rather affordable: a taxi ride from the airport to Orchard Road (central Singapore) is estimated to cost you around SGD 25. Taxis may be flagged down at most roads and most landmarks have well-marked taxi stands as well where you could board a taxi at.
A note that surcharges (25%-50%) apply during peak timings and at popular areas. |
Source: thebestsingapore.com
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Knowing the Taxis
There are five taxi-hire companies in Singapore:
ComfortDelGro (blue/yellow), SMRT Taxis (maroon), TransCab (red), Silvercab (silver) and Prime Taxi (pink). These five companies allows for both flag down and bookings. All taxis are metered and fares are charged according to the taximeter with applicable surcharges. You can check this site out for the rates and booking hotlines.
A regular sized (the most common) taxi only permits for 4 passengers, if your party consist of more than 4 people, you can travel in two separate taxis or hire a 7-15 seater, Maxi cab (at a higher price).
What to Expect
You can flag down a cab at almost every road in Singapore by extending you arm out towards an incoming taxi (the same gesture as hitchhiking but without the thumb). Additionally, there are designated taxi stands located at the exterior many well-known shopping malls. Upon entering the taxi, you just have to inform the driver your intended destination and viola! you are on the way.
Payment will be made upon reaching your destination. Both card and cash payment options are supported. Just a note that card payment options would have additional card service charges applied.
Booking services are also available via each company's booking hotline. Booking fees range from $2.30-$4.50 and $8 for advanced booking. The waiting time, however, is undetermined and will vary.
Alternatives
Currently, the taxi ratio is declining because of the rise of in-app booking systems; mainly Uber and Grab. Booking via the Uber and Grab apps, ride fares are determined at the start of the ride. You can choose from car, taxi, or even ride-sharing options. These third party applications are convenient and at times, might be even cheaper than a traditional taxi with occasional in-app promotions.
Other things to Note
Many taxi drivers communicate in their mother tongue but most are able to speak conversational English . If you are here on holiday, you could even ask them for recommendations on places to visit! Be assured that the taxis in Singapore are safe to ride; you will not be ripped off by being orally quoted an inflamed price as in some countries. Fares should go by the meter and feel free to request for a receipt at the end of the trip!
There are five taxi-hire companies in Singapore:
ComfortDelGro (blue/yellow), SMRT Taxis (maroon), TransCab (red), Silvercab (silver) and Prime Taxi (pink). These five companies allows for both flag down and bookings. All taxis are metered and fares are charged according to the taximeter with applicable surcharges. You can check this site out for the rates and booking hotlines.
A regular sized (the most common) taxi only permits for 4 passengers, if your party consist of more than 4 people, you can travel in two separate taxis or hire a 7-15 seater, Maxi cab (at a higher price).
What to Expect
You can flag down a cab at almost every road in Singapore by extending you arm out towards an incoming taxi (the same gesture as hitchhiking but without the thumb). Additionally, there are designated taxi stands located at the exterior many well-known shopping malls. Upon entering the taxi, you just have to inform the driver your intended destination and viola! you are on the way.
Payment will be made upon reaching your destination. Both card and cash payment options are supported. Just a note that card payment options would have additional card service charges applied.
Booking services are also available via each company's booking hotline. Booking fees range from $2.30-$4.50 and $8 for advanced booking. The waiting time, however, is undetermined and will vary.
Alternatives
Currently, the taxi ratio is declining because of the rise of in-app booking systems; mainly Uber and Grab. Booking via the Uber and Grab apps, ride fares are determined at the start of the ride. You can choose from car, taxi, or even ride-sharing options. These third party applications are convenient and at times, might be even cheaper than a traditional taxi with occasional in-app promotions.
Other things to Note
Many taxi drivers communicate in their mother tongue but most are able to speak conversational English . If you are here on holiday, you could even ask them for recommendations on places to visit! Be assured that the taxis in Singapore are safe to ride; you will not be ripped off by being orally quoted an inflamed price as in some countries. Fares should go by the meter and feel free to request for a receipt at the end of the trip!