The 136th Canton Fair will be held in Guangzhou, China, from October 15 to November 4, 2024. How to travel to the Canton Fair Complex by taxi or ride-hailing service?
1. Major taxi companies, ride-hailing platforms
Taxi companies:
Guangzhou"Ruyue (如约)" platform is accessible via the WeChat mini-program. It offers a fleet of 13,000 unified yellow taxis from Guangzhou Ruyue Data Technology Co., Ltd., ensuring services with licensed drivers. You can book without a destination, and payment is offline.
Ride-hailing platforms:
The primary ride-hailing platforms in Guangzhou include DiDi (滴滴), OnTime (如祺出行), Meituan Dache (美团打车), Cao Cao (曹操出行), and others. These platforms offer a convenient way to hail a ride using a smartphone app.
2. Fare standards in Guangzhou
Taxi fare:
The starting fare for a taxi in Guangzhou is 12 yuan for the first 3 kilometers, with an additional charge of 2.6 yuan per kilometer thereafter. Additional fees may apply for waiting time, return trips, and night services.
Ride-hailing fare:
Ride-hailing fares vary depending on the platform, distance, and time of day. Some platforms offer dynamic pricing, which can be higher or lower than traditional taxi fares. It's recommended to check the app for fare estimates before booking.
3. How to hail a ride
Registration
There are typically certain restrictions and requirements for expats when registering for ride-hailing app accounts, ensuring service safety and compliance. Here are the specifics:
(1) Real-name authentication:
Expats are required to complete real-name authentication when registering for ride-hailing app accounts. This measure aims to safeguard the safety of passengers and drivers, preventing false registrations and fraudulent activities.
(2) Document requirements:
During registration, expats generally need to use their passports as proof of identity. Passports serve as valid identification documents for international travelers, verifying expats' identities and nationalities.
(3) Mobile phone number:
When registering, foreigners must provide a mobile phone number for receiving verification codes, service notifications, and contacting drivers. This mobile phone number can be local or international but must be valid and capable of receiving SMS messages.
(4) Bank Card Requirements:
Ride-hailing platforms support multiple payment methods, including bank card payments. Foreigners can use international credit cards for payment, and some platforms also allow binding overseas bank cards for payment.
Please note that different ride-hailing platforms may have varying registration requirements and restrictions. It is recommended to carefully read the platform's relevant regulations and guidelines before registering.
Using apps or mini-programs:
Download and install the app of your preferred ride-hailing platform (e.g., DiDi, OnTime).
Open the app, enter your destination, and request a ride.
Follow the app's instructions to meet your driver at the designated pickup location.
Hailing a taxi by waving:
Taxis can also be hailed by waving on the street, though this method may be less reliable during peak hours or in areas with high traffic.
Look for a taxi with its "available (空车)" light on and wave to signal your intention to hail.
4. Setting destination and pickup points for Canton Fair
Setting the destination:
When using a ride-hailing app or taxi, set your destination to the Canton Fair Complex (广交会展馆). Specific addresses may include the Pazhou Complex or individual exhibition halls within the complex.
Taxi pickup points at Canton Fair:
The temporary pick-up and drop-off points for cruise taxis are set up on Zhanchang Middle Road (展场中路) and Huizhan South 3rd Road (会展南三路) near Exhibition Hall C.
Look for signs or ask staff for directions to the nearest taxi pickup point.
For ride-hailing services, temporary pickup points have been set up at Zhanchang Middle Road (展场中路) and Huizhuan South 2nd Road, Exhibition Hall C (C馆会展南二路). Passengers can go to these areas to choose ride-hailing vehicles. In addition, a quick pickup and drop-off channel for ride-hailing vehicles has been set up outside Gate 5 of the exhibition hall.
By following these guidelines, visitors to the 2024 Canton Fair can enjoy a convenient and hassle-free transportation experience using taxis and ride-hailing services.
Text | Clarice
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Nina, James