Taxis/Local Transport
Taxis/Local Transport in the Caribbean
Boomdigger, Honey Eyes, Money Too Tight, Love Da Lord... The vivid names emblazoned on the windscreens of local buses in the Caribbean are sign enough that when you hop aboard you'll not only get from A to B but also receive a quick induction into the street style of the driver. If it's rush hour the minibus will most likely be in a hurry and packed full of headphone-clad office-workers and women sporting outrageously painted fingernails. Blaring music, unexpected swerving, precariously-perched children and bizarre items of shopping from stinking jackfruit to freshly-caught fish could all be part of your in-bus entertainment.
Fancy it? You should, if only for a taste of daily life for many residents of the Caribbean who regularly use such local transport to get to school, work and the market. Another plus point is that this is a very cheap way to get around, and in some cases the drives are just as scenic as on a much pricier tourist excursion, and with more interesting companions.
Some tips... Firstly, every island does it their way. Some have proper government-run vehicles and designated stops, such as Barbados where blue-and-yellow buses ply their way between bright red and-white signs that indicate if the route direction is In or Out of City – meaning the capital, Bridgetown. On others it is more of a free-for-all, and you'll need to stand at some sacred spot designated only by past custom (ask around), or just simply flag down any vehicle that looks sort-of-bus-like. In a few places, there are no buses - for example on St Barths, or on super-hilly Saba where hitchhiking is quite acceptable.
Secondly, fares vary but are generally minimal – have some cash in small notes and coins ready to pay the driver. It helps to carry a map, so you can follow your progress and make your exact destination clear. Finally, bear in mind that minibuses are generally private, lone-gun businesses that only ply the most popular routes at busy times – at night, or at weekends, it's better to take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer.
Taxis are more expensive but go door-to-door. On most islands there are official government-set rates, however as vehicles often don't have meters, or the drivers don't choose to use them, these are not necessarily relevant. If it's a long journey, or to/from the airport, ask your hotel or travel agent what a reasonable fare should be and if in doubt confirm the price with the driver in advance. Tips are welcome, and some taxi drivers are great characters who can provide informative island tours – if you book one, note that it is customary to offer to buy them a drink or meal when you make a stop.
