Remember the fuss over the "Las Vegas" taxi wars". It was the big topic back in 2009. I have not heard anything about it 3 years. But being in LV many times, I know that it is still going on, and the taxi drivers are still being paid for delivering customers. That's why admission is typically $30 when you arrive by cab, in order to pay off the driver.
I am soliciting comments and actual incidents from you guys to let us know how it is going?
If you believe the cabbies I've dealt with in the last couple of years, they only get that cash when they deliver people during the peak hours and it's rarely more than $20.
I think taxi drivers in Vegas probably get more for customers they get for rip off escort agencies.
The practice is still rampant. And yes they get a lot more for taking you to a place they recommend. Just don't believe them when they say the club to ask for is burned down/lame/gay/being busted/closed now/etc.
Unless you are going clubbing to get loaded (as opposed to getting unloaded) rent a car for around the same $30 and you will usually save the admission charge. Plus you have the freedom to bounce if things get lame.
I just got back from Vegas 2 weeks ago and the practice of paying off cabbies still exists. I primarily go to the Spearmint Rhino when in town, but when I caught a cab from the Bellagio, the cabbie tried to talk me out of the Rhino and to some other place. He stated that the Rhino wasn't as fun, etc, but I assured him that I never had a bad time there. I took a free limo ride home later and talked to the driver about that exact practice, telling him about a time last March when a cabbie talked a buddy a me out of the Rhino, and to the Hustler Club, telling us that the Rhino was too crowded during March Madness. My Rhino driver said call ahead for the free limo and no cover charge and there will be no waiting at the front door. One way to combat the cabbies I guess.
The cabbie push for ROB joints like the Diamond Cabaret or Shari's is still going on. I feel bad for any unknowing tourists that fall prey to these tactics.
I look forward to hearing from the locals and tourists.
Rick's closed their Vegas location in 2011 citing taxi cash pay offs as a factor.
m.vegasinc.com