The political issues involved in this topic aside, I am unsure about how I feel about Uber as a service. For the longest time I rebelled against Uber. I went to law school in New York City and always prided myself in my ability to easily hail a cab. While I also use subways often, yellow cabs were always my “go to” for short trips in the city.
When my children and friends started using Uber, I was resistant, remaining loyal to my yellow cabs. Recently, on a trip to Las Vegas, with my daughter who had a broken femur and my mother in law who was in a wheelchair, we had to depend on cabs more than in the past. The kids insisted on using Uber claiming it would be easier, cheaper, and nicer. And, after four days of relying on Uber, I may have to agree.
The fares were cheaper, as the fare is based on mileage, not time. So, I didn’t have that meter anxiety I get when sitting in traffic in a yellow cab. Interestingly, most Uber drivers tended to use the back roads of Las Vegas, as opposed to the crowded strip, which got us to our destinations faster. In addition, some of the cars were surprisingly nice with the drivers supplying water bottles, chargers for our phones, and even treats. One driver had hand sanitizer, face wipes, and a huge assortment of candy in her car; she was absolutely my favorite driver.
I am beginning to see the advantages of Uber. Although, I have not yet downloaded the app. Have you?