After being on again and off again, it looks like Uber is back providing service in Destin, South Walton County and the Pensacola, Florida area. This makes our already busy roads safer by providing more options for carpooling and reduced transit costs, and hopefully a reduction in incidences of DUI offences. It's a win - win for everyone.
If you need a quick ride and never used Uber, check out the guide below.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Uber
Ready to give Uber a try? It's pretty simple:
1. First, go to www.Uber.com, register and download the app.
2. Open the app, pick the desired vehicle type. Tap the vehicle image for rates.
- UberX: The least expensive Uber service. Seats 4 riders. Drivers use sedans like Toyota Prius, Honda Accord. Known as UberPop in Europe.
- UberXL: Seats at least 6 passengers. An UberXL car will be an SUV or a Minivan. Higher fare price than UberX
3. Click SET PICKUP LOCATION. Using the map, indicate a location, or type it in. Always verify the address is correct.
4. Enter your destination and your driver will know where you are going when you get in the car.
5. Click on FARE QUOTE to see how much it will cost. If you have a PROMO CODE (WALTONCHAMBER), enter it now.
6. Click on REQUEST UBERX ( or XL)
7. You'll receive a notice of the driver name and length of time for pick-up. You'll also get their contact info so you can call or text with any additional info. For instance, if you live in a gated community, be sure to text the driver with your gate code.
8. You'll receive a fare summary and you can rate your driver. Tipping is optional, but always appreciated, especially if your enjoyed your ride. Your credit card (supplied during registration) will automatically be charged for the trip.
9. You may cancel your request without charge for up to 5 minutes after your initial request. Cancellations made after 5 minutes will incur a fee to compensate your driver for his or her time.
What Destin & South Walton Areas Have Uber Access?
When you visit the Uber website and do a search for "Destin" this is the result. You can see they have broad coverage in the Pensacola area.
How Do Uber Rates Compare With a Standard Taxi
This is the result after requesting a fare quote from VPS - Fort Walton Beach Airport to Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort:
The same trip using Taxi Fare Finder estimates $65 from VPS to Sandestin, including tip. You would have to add .50 for each additional person.
Airport Shuttles are in the $60 range.
Have you tried using the Uber service yet? Let us know how it worked out.
Posted by Tim Shepard - Broker on
Why do you have "No tipping is necessary"??? That's not right. Tipping is appreciated for excellent service and is available in app. This is my livelihood and main source of income.
Posted by Uber driver on Monday, August 28th, 2017 at 9:58amGood point, I've changed the wording in the blog post.
Posted by Tim Shepard on Monday, September 4th, 2017 at 3:09pmLeave A Comment