Tim Foolery

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Have you tried Uber?

What is Uber? Uber is an on demand private driver. Basically you download an app for your iPhone or Android device, sign up with a credit card and you are good to go. When you need a taxi, car or SUV service you open the app and hit “Request” and the vehicle shows up. Easy breezy.  This isn’t a new service — it’s been around in Chicago for months. Tonight was the first time I ever used it though. It is great.

I opted for the taxi service tonight, which bills at regular taxi rates (no additional surcharges) but you are required to tip 20%. The best part, you don’t have to deal with cash (which I never carry any more) or have to fight with the driver who doesn’t want to take a credit card.

The rundown of the ride tonight: I order the taxi via the mobile app, it arrives in 4 minutes, I am home in 10 minutes and ended up paying $0.66 more than I usually do (mostly because he was going west when he picked me up and we had to go east).  There is a premium charged if you want a town car or an SUV, but if you have multiple people that might make more sense.

Currently Uber is available in the following Cities:

  • Atlanta
  • Boston
  • Chicago
  • Dallas
  • Denver
  • The Hamptons
  • London
  • Los Angeles
  • New York City
  • Paris
  • Philadelphia
  • San Diego
  • San Francisco
  • Seattle
  • Toronto
  • Vancouver, BC
  • Washington DC
If you sign up using my link and take your first ride you’ll get $10 (and I’ll get $10 too).  Once you sign up, you’ll get your own link and you can invite your friends and earn the $10 credit as well. Feel free to post your referral link in the comments below so we can all earn free rides.
Have you used Uber before?  What are the pros and cons for you? With only one use under my belt, I haven’t really come across any issues, but I’m sure there are some.  Thoughts?

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