Today I rode in a taxi that I have hired two other times. This driver uses Costco as a base. All of the Costco taxis line up to wait their turn for store patrons. I don’t know how many people use taxis there, but there is usually quite a long line waiting. I know there are thousands of shoppers. This driver said it is good business for him.
He speaks reasonable English and is quite friendly. When Carlie and I got in the back seat this time, he didn’t even ask for directions! I asked him if he knew where he was going and he smiled and named my street. He is also a good driver, so I sat back and enjoyed my Costco hotdog and soda.
During the 20 minute drive, I remembered about being lost and having trouble with dogs on Saturday so asked his opinion of things. He said he’s never had any trouble like that with dogs. He did have some good advice about being lost, though. He said take a picture of my street sign and a few things around my apartment to be able to show anyone who might be able to help me if I am lost. That would help if a taxi driver has any trouble understanding me, too. I do have the written address that I used when we first arrived, but this seems like good back up.
Since this driver is getting to be an old friend, I asked if we could take his picture upon arrival at our gate. You can see that he helps unload the purchases, and for no extra fee. Most of the drivers do and its not on the clock. Free advice and extra help. Those bags are packed densely, so it’s not easy work.
The trunk, partially unloaded here, is stuffed with bags. We tend to hold the eggs and corn chips on our laps.
Natalie can’t carry much….
Jesse is indispensable.
We are very grateful for the elevator…
And find ourselves enjoying the mundane and routine tasks of life. Here’s me and Natalie in the mirror of the elevator.
Carlie carried this new household ‘pet’ upstairs. For $10 US at Costco. Its about 2/3 her height and very soft. He rode on in the back seat with us, too.
The fee is the same no matter how many people or how much stuff. If it can be communicated, political discussions and advice are free, too.