Russia
Regulated 'official' taxicabs, identifiable by their yellow livery, are relatively few in Moscow, but since any car can be used as a taxi. There is a long tradition of so-called (in English) 'gypsy-cabs' that comprise most of the City's fleet. These are private motorists, typically in Lada 1300s or similar vehicles, who will pick up passengers in the street. For some drivers gypsy-cab work is their main source of income, whereas many others will cruise around after finishing their day jobs. Some Muscovites who are not driving specifically for hire will nevertheless pick up paying passengers travelling in the direction of their own destination.
Gypsy-cabs can be hailed quickly in central Moscow by stepping up to the curb and raising a hand. Driver and passenger will negotiate a price through the front window; though occasionally the driver does not wish to go to the requested destination or the passenger and driver cannot agree a mutually acceptable price, in which case the car may leave and the passenger is able to try his luck with another one.
While there is obviously a risk of crime in getting into a stranger's car in any city, using gypsy-cabs in Moscow is seen as relatively safe though the British Embassy in the city officially discourages the practice.
In contrast to taxicabs, pre-booked private-hire vehicles are readily available in Moscow on a conventional commercial basis.
Traditional cabs in the western sense are becoming more and more common, but remain very expensive in comparison to the gypsy cabs.
In Russia there also exists a 'luxury' taxi service where taxis are Maybachs and TechArt Magnums (tuned Porsche Cayennes).
Read more about this topic: Taxicabs By Country
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