We have been in Europe for almost a month now and are currently in Rome. Since we have been in Italy when arriving in a new place we have taken a taxi from the train station to our hotel or AirBnb. Now as some of you know I am travelling with my dog Jake. Jake is having a great time actually. And he has elicited some surprising responses from taxi drivers.
First we have had nothing but positive interactions with every taxi driver we have used. None have tried to overcharge us, fiddle with the meter or drive around endlessly to run up the meter. They have all taken the direct route and been very friendly and helpful. And I have to say this was a bit of a surprise to me given my overall experience with taxi drivers all over the world. In fact every one has tried to correct us when we handed them too much money for the trip and gave it back to us. (We include a couple of extra Euros for taking Jake over and above the fare) We have to tell them it’s for the dog.
Now getting a taxi hasn’t been as hard as I had imagined. It takes about three taxis and we get one that will take Jake. Jake stands on the back seat floor and looks out the window. Our Rome taxi driver said he likes to take dogs they are better customers than some of the humans.
Traveling with Jake has been pretty easy and rewarding too. In fact the other day I realized taking your dog to Europe is easier than taking your 2-4 year old by far. At least we can leave Jake in the AirBnb or hotel when we go to dinner if we want. (But that’s a subject for another post)
So if you are going for a longer trip and thinking you might want to take your pooch I recommend it. It’s easier than you think.