Hong Kong taxis were added to the top 10 ranking of world’s best taxis; London and New York cabs have been top-rated globally for the past four years.
“With the increased flag falls and better economy, taxi drivers are earning more, so they are happier in their jobs and provide better services to their passengers,” Lai Ming-hung, chairman of the Taxi and Public Light Bus Concern Group, said.
From a daily earning low of HK$200 (US$25.65) during the 2008 financial crisis, drivers are now earning between HK$400 and HK$500 a day, Lai said. He encourages drivers to be friendly to passengers - locals and visitors alike - and avoid cheating tourists to improve their public impression.
Wong Wing-chung, of the Northwest Area Taxi Drivers and Operators Association, observed that the city’s drivers are offering improved services amid competition from cheaper operators, AsianCorrespondent.com reported.
Taking 28 percent of total votes, London taxis topped the survey. New York came in second, winning 9 percent, and Hong Kong was third with 7 percent.
With a minimum fare of £2.20 (HK$28.30), however, London cabs are the most expensive. New York taxis were voted easiest to find, but drivers were rated worst in terms of geographical knowledge, AsianCorrespondent.com said.
