Pre-paid taxis - Mumbai airport

Hi, The Opoponax. Are you staying at The Residency ? I posted the landmarks and directions in my review in the Hotels section.

My driver didn't know the hotel, so he asked me if I did.
I said no.
So he kept driving, looking tense, not saying anything.
Until we arrived in view of CST and I said "maybe we should ask ?"
Those were the magic words. He braked harder than Jackie Chan spotting the bad guys on the opposite lane, and asked fellow cab drivers. They didn't know the hotel either, but all knew the Citibank.

My nice Google map, however, was of little use. It was past midnight when I arrived, no light in the cab, no light on the streets, and a driver who couldn't read any English.

Take care,

Everything is said already, but let me give my two cents worth, too:

Well known landmarks are the most important thing. When you ask other people out of the car window, they are most important to give them an idea where you are headed fast. (Maps are virtually useless because noone can read them.) Call the hotel again from home to give you a description how to get there, and ask repeatedly near what it is. Even advertisings in India are often marked with "near Ganesh Cinema" or the like. People know the "near phrase" well. If the competition nearby is better known, even mention that as a "near phrase". The best known "near places" are street crossings, like in N.Y. too. If you know the Hindi name, that would be excellent. "x Chowk" (pronounced like "joke!") Ask the hotel, which Chowk is nearest.

Best of all: Choose a hotel on the criterion of whether they send an Airport-pickup or not. Pay the extra fee for the extra peace of mind. Change to your hotel of choice the next day. That is how I would do it.

Thanks, everybody, for all your advice. I'm feeling a lot more confident now reading everyone's ideas.

I had a brainstorm a minute ago, and it turns out I was right.

The hotel's website has a very simple map that shows the exact location of the hotel in relation to several landmarks. I'm going to compare it to a google map to confirm that their map resembles reality, and call or email to confirm and get an even better idea. There are also some photos of the exterior which indicate that it's on the corner, and you can see other shops and things as well. I'm of half a mind to print out the photo and bring it along -- either way, it looks like the building should be pretty easy to spot.

Hi there, we arrive in Mumbai Int. in a couple of weeks and get in at about 10.30am. Is it still around Rs.400 for a pre-paid cab into Colaba? Are the cab stands/ranks easy to find? Any cab companies to look out for?
Thanks a lot!

Anyone? Anyone?

Hi there, yep I reckon the price is still about Rs 400 I can't remember if I paid RS 400 or Rs 350 last time I was there. Best to stick with the Government pre-paid taxis. Just before you exit the airport there are two pre-paid taxi stands on the right hand side. I went to the first one a few years back and they asked me for Rs 750 to go to Colaba ! So walk past the first and go to the second one which I assume, because of the Cheap 'n' Best price, is the Government stand and not a private operation.

Thanks! Very helpful response.

yes, should be around 350. And like was said it's right before you go outside. They should have all prices listed on the wall.

Hi I suggest you take a look at the thread titled "Airport Cab Scam"

It'll give you soem idea of what you're looking for.

Thanks! Sorted

At all the airports I've been to,there seems to be a Govt. organised unit and a private company.

The private ones supposedly offer AC cabs and better quality - but at a higher price.

I've always gone for the budget cars.

Cheers
Zoltan

I'm off to India for the first time in a couple of weeks and these forums have been great for reading up on what and where to go. My flight is due to arrive at 10.40pm at Mumbai Airport. By the time I get through immigration etc will I be able to easily get a pre-paid taxi at that time of night?

I arrived at 11:30PM last weekend and had no problem. The prepaid booth is on your left just before you exit. If you miss it (like I did) there is an unmarked round hole in the glass, 3 panes down from the exit doors and you have to yell through there to buy your ticket. It's kind of loud outside so they have signs they hold up saying "AC/non-AC" and so on, so they can tell what you want.

No I am not making that up...

After you exit, walk about 500 yards to your left, down to where all the black and yellow Ambassadors are parked while ignoring the freelance taxi drivers who will be propositioning you for a ride. You may also pick up a few unofficial porters and guides on the way. Don't let them touch your luggage. Look for the number of the taxi on your ticket.

Enjoy your trip.

Thanks

We are arriving in Mumbai Int around 2PM and would like to go straight to Nasik. I have looked at Buses but it seems most leave later in the day and get in to Nasik quite late. Would it be possible to get one of the pre-paid taxi/car all the way to Nasik or would we need to book something in advance.