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One of the most important things to plan when you’re planning your Cancun vacation is how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel and around in general.
There are several options, including Uber, although Uber is still not allowed to operate at the airport yet, and taxis.
Taxi drivers in Cancun have had an ongoing battle with Uber drivers, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that Cancun taxi drivers are launching their own app in an attempt to compete with Uber.
Let’s go over the new app and take a look at what this means for tourists.
The Ola Taxi App
The Ola Taxi app is being launched by the Andres Quintana Roo Taxi Driver’s Union as a way to compete with Uber.
The app works in a similar way to both Uber and Didi.
It allows users to book a ride through the app, see the type of vehicle they are booking, and verify that the license plate matches the vehicle booked.
The Andres Quintana Roo Taxi Driver’s Union
Taxi drivers in Cancun are members of the Andres Quintana Roo Taxi Driver’s Union, which doesn’t have the best reputation.
Drivers have been in the news over the last year numerous times for attacking Uber drivers, blocking tourists from using Uber, and even committing crimes.
The launch of this app is an effort towards more oversight and better service, as well as the ability to compete with Uber.
Using The Ola Taxi App
The Ola Taxi app can be downloaded on both Android and iOS devices and is available in several languages.
Users will have the option of paying either in cash or with a credit or debit card.
Similar to Uber, you can search for drivers in your area and choose the driver you want.
Ola Taxi App Features
Within the app, users will be able to access various promotions and loyalty discounts.
Additionally, the app does allow you to book rides in advance, which is convenient when arriving at Cancun Airport and departing from your hotel.
Taxi vehicles will have a geolocation feature that allows the vehicle to be tracked, and provide arrival time estimates.
“Ease, Security, Immediacy”
The mission statement, so to speak, of the new taxi drivers’ union app is to provide users with “ease, security, and immediacy.”
The app will bring the union into the modern era by utilizing technology already common in the rideshare industry.
This is following a recent announcement that taxi drivers would offer service within the Uber app before developing an app of their own.
Convenience And Safety
One factor many people consider regarding rideshare apps is the safety features available. Although rare, rideshare drivers have committed crimes.
The Ola Taxi app has a few features that enhance passengers’ security.
In addition to using geolocation, biometric data on drivers will also be utilized.
Even more important, though, is the fact that the app will provide extra security by being connected to the city’s C5 video surveillance system.
Other Transportation Options In Cancun
With the not-so-great reputation of taxi drivers, and the inability to use Uber for airport transfers, you may be wondering what other options are available when visiting Cancun.
There are shared shuttles and ADO buses available, although they are not the most convenient means of transportation.
There is also private transportation available, which can be booked in advance for a worry-free arrival for your Cancun vacation.
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