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Source: AOL (It’s pretty spot on…but “worst” is kinda harsh…it’s the “worst” if your not a savvy traveler or gullible.)

While I’ve been here in Manila, my main mode of transportation has been taxis. My cousins think the buses and jeepneys are not safe for me. I’m not interested in riding a bus, but I’d love to ride a jeepney. (I received a firm NO on the matter because they said my parents would yell at them.)

Driving in Manila is a whole other matter. Imagine the drivers from San Diego cutting people off without signaling and LA’s traffic times 10 and through in some impatience and you have Manila! It’s seriously crazy here! Even though there are laws set in place, it’s not like anyone follows them. (What’s the point of having designated lanes and seat belts if no one cares.)

I find myself getting car sick everytime because 1) they drive really fast and 2) the weave in and out of lanes! My cousin keeps asking why I fall asleep when I’m in a cab, but I tell her I’m not sleeping, I’ve trying not to get sick from the motion.

Also, for those traveling in Manila, here are some general rules when riding in a taxi.

1) Make sure it has all the proper registration stickers and that they are visible. If not, DON’T get in.

2) You must pay the extra 10 pesos at the end. They are not trying to price gouge you. The price of gas is expensive and to compensate the drivers, the government passes a law requiring the payment of 10 pesos on top of the price.

3) Make sure they turn on the meter. The price is always based on the meter. If they don’t turn it on, get out of the cab because they are taking advantage of you.

4) There are some cab drivers who will try to take advantage of you when they know you are a foreigner. Today, my cousin and I were speaking in English in the cab and when we weren’t looking, he added an extra 40 pesos to the meter. (The cost to get from my cousin’s condo to Intramuros should only be 130 pesos. The driver from Intramuros made it 160 pesos. After some words were exchanged it changed back to 130.) So always be aware of the price and the driver’s hands!

Hopes this helps!