Uber and Lyft are ride-sharing services that employ a location-based mobile application to link passengers to drivers. Using the apps, passengers select their pickup location, destination, and vehicle, pay for the ride, and rate drivers.
Fares, generally much less expensive than taxis, start from a standard base, then add a per-minute or per-mile rate. However, when demand is high (rush hour, rain, big events), both Uber and Lyft implement "surge pricing," and the fares can rise way above what a taxi would cost for the same trip.
At the airport, pickup locations are in the parking garages: At Terminal 1, it’s Level 2M; at Terminal 3, it’s at Level V (for valet); look for and follow the signs for Ride Sharing. Uber and Lyft drivers can drop you off right at the departing-flights curb, so you only have to haul your bags to the parking garage on arrival, not departure. During non-surge periods, expect to pay $10-$13 from the airport to center Strip.
Most Strip hotels have dedicated areas for Uber and Lyft, just like for taxis. Look for the signs. At some properties, such as MGM Grand, it can be a bit of a walk, but these loading areas are generally convenient, and drivers can usually drop you off at a place of your choosing.
Downtown, pickup spots are more variable. We’re advised that if you ask at hotel front desks, you’ll be pointed to the place.
As for tipping, originally, Uber’s fares included tips, but no longer. Drivers can now accept cash tips. Lyft has an app-based tipping option for $1, $2, $5, or other.
In Las Vegas, Lyft seems to be the more popular and practical choice. Lyft has a GPS location app that allows drivers to zero in on their passengers. Uber drivers, we've heard, have had lots of problems locating their passengers.
 |
Feb-03-2018
|