This article is written by Justin Rabindra. Justin is a Manager with an Advertising Agency in Delhi. He is also an avid traveler and photographer.

I’ve concluded that cabbies everywhere have waded out of the same gene pool. I’ve never come across one who is happy to just drive in silence. The guy who picked us up at JFK was no different. He had to give us a running commentary on all the famous sights we crossed, the state of the world, and his favourite holiday destination (The Bahamas). He also had an accent that could have got him a bit role in a Mafia movie (he called it Ma’hattan.) 

Like cabbies everywhere he had seen all the Raj Kapoor movies incuding Awaara and Mera Naam Joker. I’ve never figured that one out. Do they see iconic movies from every country so they can make their passengers feel welcome. In any case it didn’t work with me because I don’t care much for Raj Kapoor movies or any other that doesn’t have English subtitles.

GPS

This guy also had a newly installed GPS which was sticking into my thigh in the front seat and he kept telling me to be careful because it was very sensitive. It was not the most comfortable ride. I wondered just then if cabbies in London still had to undergo rigorous training (essentially to know the shortest distance between two points) and acquire The Knowledge before they were licensed.

He also made it very clear that the trip to Manhattan was $40 not including tips. I always find it funny when you’re expected to tip a cabbie. Who started this trend anyway? Someone who thought ‘wow, not only does this guy drive well, he’s so pleasant as well. Lemme give him a tip.’ Hey I can handle a driver with a scowl.

Justin Rabindra

5 Sept 2011

http://justinrabindra.blogspot.com/2011/09/new-york-cabbies.html