By Taxi & Limousine in Los Angeles

By Taxi & Limousine

Don't even try to hail a cab on the street in Los Angeles. Instead, phone one of the many taxi companies. The metered rate is $2 per mile, plus a $2 per-fare charge. Taxi rides from LAX have an additional $2.50 surcharge. Be aware that distances between sights in L.A. are vast, so cab fares add up quickly. One relative bargain, though: for a $4 flat fare, up to four passengers may use a taxi to visit downtown attractions within the "One Fare Zone," which is bounded by the Harbor Freeway (I-110) to the west, Main Street to the east, Pico Boulevard to the south, and the Hollywood Freeway (U.S. 101) to the north. On the other end of the price spectrum, limousines come equipped with everything from a full bar and telephone to a hot tub. If you open any L.A.-area yellow pages, the number of limo companies will astound you. Most charge by the hour, with a three-hour minimum.

Limo Companies

ABC Limousine & Sedan Service (818/980-6000 or 888/753-7500). American Executive (213/250-2121 or 800/927-2020). Black & White Transportation Services (800/924-1624). Chauffeur's Unlimited (310/645-8711 or 888/546-6019. www.chaufusa.com). Dav El Limousine Co. (310/550-0070 or 800/922-0343. www.davel.com). First Class (323/756-4894 or 310/676-9771. www.first-classlimo.com). ITS (800/487-4255).

Taxi Companies

Bell Cab (888/235-5222. www.bellcab.com.). Beverly Hills Cab Co. (800/273-6611). Checker Cab (800/300-5007). Independent Cab Co. (800/521-8294. www.taxi4u.com). United Independent Taxi (800/411-0303 or 800/822-8294). Yellow Cab/LA Taxi Co-Op (800/200-1085 or 800/200-0011).