don't throw baby out with bath water. always ask taxi fare before getting in.

Gosh, it doesn't take much to put you off a whole city, does it, even when it's your own fault?

Did you sign up just to offer this rant? I thought so.

Trusrt me, Paris won't miss you.

We were in Paris from May 24-May 31st this year. We took the train from Brussels, and upon arrival at Gare du Nord, went out to where the taxis were. The "driver" mentioned the strikes, the long wait, and quoted us 80-90 euros to take us to the 11th. Having been a victim of this type of unofficial taxi ride in Rome, many years ago, we declined. We ended up taking the bus, for the cost of about 2 euros or so.

The point being.....doing a little research, reading forums such as this, and preparation can save time, money and frustration.

I wouldn't blame the city of Paris for unscrupulous taxi scammers.

YOu don't have to do any particular research to know that taxis don't generally quote flat fares for trips (except in some cities from the airport), and if some taxi offers you a flat fare and you accept, that's on you. To some people 80 euro might have been worth it, who knows.

Lesson number one for taxis, check that the meter is running. Some people check the route ahead of time on their Google map app. So, maybe you paid 45 or so extra. These things happen; just learn from the mistake. I doubt there's any place in the world you can visit where someone won't try to scam you. I try to focus on all the kindnesses directed my way.