I need to be deep in Gatineau relatively early tomorrow morning for a training session. Given that I do not want to walk ten kilometres through unfamiliar terrain and the first bus that goes to this place arrives after the session begins, it seems I have no choice but to take a cab – something I generally only do in situations where it is essentially unavoidable.
I dislike almost everything about taxis: the fact that they are cars, the ‘back of a police car’ feeling of riding in one, the fact they that so sharply privilege convenience over efficiency or cost, and the barbershop awkwardness of having to share a vehicle with a stranger from whom you are buying a necessary service that makes you anxious and unhappy.
At least I will be able to take the bus home in the evening.
While I also dislike taxis, I am very glad for their existence. A combination of taxis and by-the-hour car rental can replace the need for car ownership in cities, which, as your situation proves, can not be replaced merely with bicycle and bus access.
To avoid the police car feeling, could you not sit in the front opposite the driver?
Tristan,
I agree that they are a necessary unpleasantness – like the dental drill.
Future Lessons,
Thankfully, the fellow spent the whole trip on his cell phone.