JOHANNESBURG TODAY
Transport is key to achieving most things in a city, and getting around Johannesburg, as in any other international city, needs some preparation as it presents the usual two problems. The first, being that it is as complicated as getting around London, New York, etc. The second being the cost: it can be extremely cheap or extremely expensive, depending on whether you choose public or private transport. Recently Uber came to Johannesburg and widened the choice, soon followed by others in the niche. In addition to this however, is a another choice, that between formal and semi-formal private transport. The latter is to be found operating mainly in the black community as a countrywide taxi system that is both dirt-cheap and extremely effective. It is the unmetered minibus taxi system. Note the downside however, that the drivers have a bad reputation for reckless driving habits. You pay a flat rate of around R14 (USD 0.99), and you are dropped off near (as opposed to at ) your destination. It is safe, although a trifle adventurous, most patrons are black, and there is constant hooting/honking to attract customers. If you have no problem with that, you can move around Johannesburg safely and dirt-cheaply, in addition to which as a foreign tourist one gain a wider insight into the country's people and transport system. That said, let's start with public transport |
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