Taxi

[Cathy]

Hi- we are staying at a resort in Costambar - about 4 miles from Puerto Plata, and our Hotel is charging us $25 US for a tai to pick us up at the airport. I think this is a little expensive consdiering we are only 4 miles away!
Does anyone out there know if we could get it cheaper if we just got a taxi from the airport when we arrived? Or is this pretty much the going rate?

 

[P.T.]

Hi Cathy,
I don't know what the going rate is for the location. However, I feel uncomfortable for you that the hotel charging $25 US for a taxi ride. It is a bit too much for 4 mile passage. Some resorts offer a free shuttle. I suggest you bargain with the hotel for a free ride. It is in their interest to get you to the resort. Also, if you booked this trip through a travel agent let them do the negotiating. If you are going to pay, I believe the cheaper option is to take a taxi direct from the airport. You can bargain your fare. Just make sure you set the price before getting into the taxi. Good Luck and Regards, PJT

 

[Keith]

Cathy,

The Puerto Plata airport is actually located near the town of Sos?a. The city of Puerto Plata, the Puerto Plata airport and Sos?a, among other towns and villages, all reside in the Puerto Plata district (thereby the name "Puerto Plata" airport). I understand your confusion thinking that the airport is approx 4 miles from Costambar, but the airport is in fact about a 30-45 minute drive on the other side of Puerto Plata (the town) from your hotel. As for the fare, I normally pay around $ 200 RD ( about $ 13.50 usd) to go from Sos?a to Metro Bus line in the town of Puerto Plata (much closer than your trip) plus does it does not originate in the airport (taxes are charged for the sindicate access). The point being, the $ 25 usd is fair (no pun intended, well, a little bit...) and probably the best you'll find. Hope this helps and have a great trip!!

 

[Another Gringo in Pto.Pta.]

hola Cathy,
Keith is correct, you are 4 miles away from POP downtown, but from there its about 10 miles to the airport, and you stay in a "Gringo" area, so thy charge you more.
It's very easy to check out the correct Taxi syndicate price. Where they have there waiting staion in costambar, there is a big sign with all prices on, even to the airport.
Whe have a cheaper local Taxi Service only by call = TECNI-TAXI,S.A. 320-7621 who will charge you about 180$RD. But they can only bring you inside, never pick you up there (only at the gate) depend to the syndicate.
But anyway 400 Peso=25US$ is to much and a hotel shell give free transport.
cu/charly