10: Take a Cab

Looking back on my spontaneous weekend trip to Madrid, I feel lucky that it was such a walkable city. Everything we wanted to see was in the city center and we could walk there in 20 minutes or less.

Since then, though, I've taken cabs and buses. I'd have to say that sometimes taking a cab is worth it! I used to think that busing or walking was always the best option, but there are many factors to consider.

In Granada, getting to the Alhambra looked like a relatively short walk... but most of it was a steep uphill climb and it was still hot out. The bus didn't take you up to the entrance of the palaces. Two other girls and I took a cab (seats 4 passengers max) and arrived 15 minutes earlier than everyone else. We were sweat-free too! We paid less than the bus fare to get straight to the entrance twice as quickly. Good deal!

The bus back from Alicante only runs at certain times. The last bus from Alicante back to Guardamar on weekdays is at 9PM, but festivities such as bonfires and parades usually don't start until after the last bus leaves. The earliest bus in the morning is at 7AM. In this case, it's probably worth the 50 euro cab ride back to the Pencion to sleep and be fresh and ready for the next day. Splitting the cost of a hotel room and then riding the bus for 45 minutes in the morning is also an option, but may add up to cost the same (or more) as a cab ride home.

But your mileage--and price--may vary. In Alicante, our class split up into groups to take cabs to the Centro de Tecnificacion (a sports center) designed by Miralles. This was also an uphill climb, but the meter seemed to be running fast! My cab got away with splitting 6.25 euro, but the other cabs that arrived after us paid 7 euro and up. Your cab luck depends on how well your driver can navigate roads, run yellow lights, and avoid obstacles.

Another option is to ask the driver if there is a flat rate to your destination, but that may not exist, or may be greater than what your actual fare ends up being.

I'm always down to walk everywhere to save a few euros. It adds up! But when I need a cab, I'll call one because it's worth it.