Washington D.C. Transportation: Metros vs. Taxis

The Metro vs. The Taxi. A battle waged in the streets (and under the streets) of New York City that has not only spread nationwide, but across the globe. The transportation epidemic in the U.S. goes a little like this. Traveler visits city. Subway and buses are disgusting and often over-crowded. Taxi drivers don't speak English well, drive as if the world is ending in their rear view mirror and expect you to tip them for it. Is it ultimately the choice of the lesser of two evils? No, not at all. Well, that is, not in Washington, D.C.

Washington D.C. Has Revolutionized the Metro

Washington D.C. has revolutionized public transportation by offering a clean, pleasant smelling subway system. Having lived in NYC for years, I thought Washington D.C.'s metro system had to be similar to what the Metro must be like in heaven. It always helps to have such high-powered political figures in a geographical area to ensure that things will be of the utmost quality.

The metro in Washington D.C. is much more user friendly than many of the subway and bus systems throughout metropolitan regions of the United States. If you have never had an experience on the underground, Washington D.C. will give you a gentle, efficient first-time experience!

Washington D.C. Taxis

The taxis in Washington D.C. are a crapshoot. You might get an experience that is more like a Washington D.C. tour than a cab ride, in which case you're left smiling, pointing and satisfied. In the same breath, there's a definite possibility that you'll struggle to communicate with your driver and will need to resort to pointing at a map, saying “Go here,” buckling your seat belt and hanging on for dear life.

Washington D.C. Transportation -- Metros vs. Taxis

Hands down, if the metro is going where you want to go, you'll get there for less, you'll get there in a clean environment and you probably won't experience your life flashing before your eyes. On the other hand, if you're a little more adventurous, have the funds set aside for transportation and enjoy seeing your reflection in the bumper of the car in front of you, by all means, take a cab.

On a more serious note, you'll also want to consider your schedule. If you're just zipping down the street for a dinner reservation, a quick cab ride is the only logical consideration.

Regardless of what mode of transportation you end up using during your Washington D.C. vacation, make sure you've educated yourself on the layout of the city, the roads and metro lines beforehand. Your Washington D.C. travel will be much more enjoyable!