How to Negotiate a Taxi Price in Fiji

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Taxi Meters in Fiji

The first thing you need to know about negotiating taxi prices in Fiji is that it is illegal for taxi drivers to negotiate taxi prices with you where a taxi meter is required. Taxi meters are mandatory for all taxis with an “LT” license plate in all town areas except for Korovou, Taveuni and Levuka, which includes the surrounding suburbs in a 16 km (10 mi) radius, not just the town centres.

However, taxi drivers in LT-licensed vehicles in these towns must still follow the government-mandated taxi fares, which are available to view on the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission website. We also break down these metered fares in our complete guide, Taxi Prices in Fiji: The Costs You Need to Know.

If a taxi driver says their taxi meter is broken, don’t accept the taxi, as this is a well-known scam. It is illegal for them to operate with a broken meter.

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When to Negotiate Taxi Prices in Fiji

So when can you negotiate a taxi price with a driver? The following circumstances are appropriate:

• If the trip exceeds 16 km (10 mi) (i.e. the trip leaves town)
• If the taxi is an “LH” licensed vehicle.

Note that taxi drivers are not permitted to instigate a fare negotiation. Negotiating fares must be initiated by the passenger. If you, the passenger, prefer to use the taxi meter, even for longer journeys, the taxi driver must oblige. Note that only “LT” licensed taxis have taxi meters.

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How to Negotiate a Fair Taxi Fare in Fiji

Now that you know when it is appropriate to negotiate a taxi fare in Fiji, you need to know what a fair price to negotiate is.

Find Out the Usual Taxi Fares in Fiji

As mentioned, the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission publishes what is considered a fair price per distance travelled. As this can be a little difficult to work out practically, we give approximate costs for LT rates and LH rates in Taxi Prices in Fiji: The Costs You Need to Know. The main thing you need to remember is that “LH” taxis are typically twice as expensive as “LT” taxis.

How to Negotiate the Best Taxi Fare

Textbook negotiation techniques apply for negotiating a taxi fare in Fiji:

• Make the taxi driver name a price first
• Make your counteroffer lower than you expect to pay
• Meet in the middle.

Another technique you can adopt is staying silent if the taxi fare is too high for you. That way, the driver might feel obligated to fill the silence to justify their price or lower it just to move past the awkward moment.

And if you feel like you haven’t got a price as low as you think is fair, ask for extras like “stopping at the supermarket along the way” or agree that you’ll use this taxi driver’s service again if they go lower.

Don’t Negotiate to an Unfair Price

When it comes to haggling with taxi drivers, remember that you’re likely coming from a much wealthier country. While it’s tempting to negotiate the lowest possible fare, it’s important to be mindful of people’s livelihoods. Don’t try to squeeze every last penny out of the deal!

Keep in mind the exchange rates and the local cost of living. What might seem like a small amount to you could make a significant difference to a driver’s daily income. By paying a fair price, you’re contributing positively to the local economy and ensuring that hardworking individuals can support themselves and their families.

Remember, a successful negotiation should leave both parties feeling satisfied. Aim for a win-win situation where you get a reasonable fare, and the driver earns a fair wage for their service. This approach not only supports the local community but also helps foster positive interactions between tourists and locals.

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More Ways to Save Money on Taxi Fares in Fiji

Looking to stretch your budget even further while exploring the beautiful islands of Fiji? We’ve got you covered with these money-saving tips for taxi fares that will help you make the most of your tropical getaway.

Choose Larger Companies with Transparent Pricing

One of the best ways to save money on taxi fares in Fiji is to opt for larger, well-established companies. We recommend using services like Uniquely Fiji, which typically offer set, transparent prices. This approach makes it much easier to plan your transportation budget in advance, eliminating any surprises or haggling when it’s time to pay.

Build a Relationship with Your Driver

If you’re staying in one town for a few days, consider using the same company or driver for your entire visit. This strategy can lead to some great savings! Many drivers are happy to offer a small discount for multi-day trips, as they appreciate the regular business. Don’t be shy – it never hurts to ask if they can provide a little discount for your loyalty. You might be pleasantly surprised by how much you can save (and you might even make a new friend in the process)!