18/08/2022
Getting Around Israel: Your Guide to Sheruts and Taxis
When navigating the vibrant streets of Israel, understanding the local public transportation options is key to a smooth and efficient journey. While buses form the backbone of many commutes, the unique Sherut service and readily available taxis offer distinct advantages for travellers. Whether you're looking for a cost-effective shared ride or a private journey, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to hail your next ride with confidence.
Sheruts, often referred to as shared taxis, provide a popular and practical mode of transport in Israel. These 10-passenger vehicles typically ply the most frequented routes within cities, offering a flexible alternative to traditional bus services. The core principle of a Sherut is that it departs only once it's at full capacity, usually comprising ten passengers. This shared model often makes them a quicker option than waiting for a less frequent bus.
One of the significant benefits of the Sherut is its flexibility. Unlike buses with fixed stops, Sheruts allow passengers to alight at any point along their designated route. This means you can often get dropped off closer to your exact destination, saving you that final walk. To catch a Sherut, you can usually hail them at bus stops or in their vicinity along their established routes.
The fares for Sheruts are standardized and regulated by the Ministry of Transport. As of late 2021, the standard fare was approximately 6 shekels, a figure very close to the typical city bus fare of 5.90 NIS. This makes the Sherut a competitively priced option for daily commuting and exploring.
Special Sherut Services to Ben Gurion Airport
For travellers heading to or from Ben Gurion International Airport (often abbreviated as Natbag), a special Sherut service is available. This service offers the convenience of door-to-door pick-up, including assistance with luggage, at a pre-arranged time. This can be particularly beneficial when you have a lot of baggage or are travelling during off-peak hours when other public transport might be less frequent.
Conversely, Sheruts departing from Ben Gurion Airport can take you to almost any destination across Israel. However, it's important to be aware that these Sheruts will only leave once they are full. This can sometimes lead to a waiting period, so patience is a virtue when utilising this service from the airport. The fare structure for these airport routes is also standard, but drivers may occasionally ask passengers to contribute a small additional amount (around 10-20 shekels) to cover the cost of missing passengers, allowing the Sherut to depart sooner. For those seeking more information on specific companies and routes, a quick online search for "sherut to Ben Gurion Airport" will provide ample details, and most operators speak English.
Private Taxi Services: The 'Special' Option
Beyond the Sherut system, Israel boasts a robust network of private taxi services. These range from individual operators to larger companies with extensive fleets. When the Sherut or bus services don't quite meet your needs, or if you require a more direct and private journey, a taxi is readily available.
In Israel, a private taxi is commonly referred to as a "special". You can hail a special on the street, book one via telephone through a taxi company, or increasingly, use mobile applications like the popular Gett Taxi app. When it comes to fares, you generally have two main options: agreeing on a fixed rate with the driver before your journey commences, or opting for the metered rate. It's worth noting that taxi fares in Israel can be somewhat negotiable, and it's often expected that passengers will engage in a little polite haggling, particularly for longer journeys or when agreeing on a pre-journey price.
Understanding Taxi Fares and Etiquette
As of March 2017, the standard starting fare for a metered taxi in Israel was 11.50 ILS. This initial charge covers the commencement of the journey, and the meter then calculates the fare based on both distance travelled and the time taken. The way the meter operates can subtly influence the driver's behaviour.
If you opt for a pre-agreed fare, drivers may be inclined to drive more assertively, aiming to beat traffic lights and overtake where possible, in order to complete the trip quickly and potentially pick up another fare sooner. In such instances, it's advisable to wear your seatbelt and be prepared for a brisk ride!
Conversely, when using the metered rate, drivers are generally more inclined to drive cautiously, adhere to speed limits, and avoid unnecessary risks. This approach ensures the meter continues to run, but it often results in a more relaxed and predictable journey. Regardless of how you choose to pay, remember that you have rights as a passenger. You are entitled to request a receipt, ask for the air conditioning to be switched on or off, control the windows, and even request a change in the radio station.
It's important to remember that despite potential differences in driving styles based on fare agreements, Israeli taxi drivers are generally very helpful and often go out of their way to assist passengers. This is particularly true for younger travellers. Drivers have been known to offer discounts to teenagers who might be short of the full fare and will make every effort to ensure they reach their destinations safely, especially late at night.
The condition of cabs in Israel is also noteworthy. You'll typically find them to be clean and well-maintained, reflecting a commitment to passenger comfort.
The Gett Taxi App: A Modern Solution
For those who prefer the convenience of technology, the Gett Taxi app has become a popular choice for booking rides across Israel. While this article doesn't endorse any specific service, user feedback highlights the app's utility.
A key point raised by users is the fare structure when hailing a cab versus ordering via an app. If you hail a cab directly from the street, the initial 11.50 ILS starting fare should be the primary charge, without the additional 4.80 ILS often added for phone or app bookings. However, by using Gett during non-peak hours, you can sometimes circumvent this additional charge, depending on their pricing schedule. Gett also offers a layer of recourse for passengers. If you encounter any discrepancies or unfair charges, the app allows you to dispute them, often with success, by providing proof such as receipts.
Furthermore, the Gett app can streamline the journey itself. By entering your destination address, it appears on the driver's phone, allowing them to use GPS for navigation. For those unfamiliar with an area, you can even input the address into your own phone and guide the driver along your preferred route. These methods can potentially lead to significant cost savings.
Crucially, always request a receipt, even when using Gett. This receipt is vital for disputing any incorrect charges with Gett directly via email or if you need to escalate a complaint to the taxi station or the Ministry of Transport. The receipt serves as essential documentation for any fare-related issues.
A Glimpse into Past Taxi Experiences
Reflecting on travel experiences, one anecdote from years ago in the Sinai highlights a stark contrast to modern Israeli taxi services. In a crowded, older model Mercedes taxi, with seven passengers and luggage crammed in, the request for air conditioning was met with a rather rudimentary solution: being handed the window crank. This humorous, albeit uncomfortable, memory serves as a reminder of how far taxi services have come, especially when compared to the clean, air-conditioned, and technologically integrated options available in Israel today.
Key Takeaways for Your Israeli Taxi Experience:
- Sheruts: A cost-effective shared taxi service, ideal for popular routes. Depart when full, allow alighting anywhere along the route.
- Specials (Taxis): Private hire vehicles. Hail on the street, call a company, or use apps like Gett.
- Fares: Choose between a pre-agreed rate or a metered fare. Haggling is common for pre-agreed rates.
- Gett App: Offers convenience, GPS integration, and a dispute resolution process. Always keep receipts.
- Passenger Rights: You can request AC, control windows, change radio, and always ask for a receipt.
- Airport Travel: Special Sheruts offer door-to-door service. Airport Sheruts depart when full.
By understanding these options and the associated etiquette, you can ensure your journeys by Sherut or taxi in Israel are comfortable, efficient, and hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions about Israeli Taxis and Sheruts
- What is a Sherut taxi?
- A Sherut is a shared taxi service in Israel, typically accommodating up to 10 passengers. They operate on fixed routes and depart once they are full.
- How do I pay for a Sherut?
- Sherut fares are generally fixed and paid directly to the driver. The fare is standard and regulated.
- Can I hail a Sherut on the street?
- Yes, you can usually hail a Sherut at designated bus stops or near them along their routes.
- What is the difference between a Sherut and a 'special' taxi?
- A Sherut is a shared service, while a 'special' is a private taxi hired exclusively for your journey. Specials are typically more expensive but offer greater privacy and flexibility.
- How are taxi fares calculated in Israel?
- Fares can be calculated using a meter (based on distance and time) or as a pre-agreed fixed rate. It's advisable to clarify the fare arrangement before starting your journey.
- Is it customary to tip taxi drivers in Israel?
- Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. Rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip (around 10%) is common.
- What should I do if I have a problem with a taxi fare?
- Always ask for a receipt. If you used an app like Gett, you can dispute charges through the app. Otherwise, you can contact the taxi company or the Ministry of Transport with your receipt details.
- Are Sheruts available to Ben Gurion Airport?
- Yes, a special Sherut service operates to and from Ben Gurion Airport, offering door-to-door pick-up and drop-off.
If you want to read more articles similar to Navigating Israel's Sherut & Taxi Scene, you can visit the Travel category.