Why does the tuk-tuk arranged by the guesthouse/hotel cost more than some guy off the street?
There are several scenarios in play, but before discussing them, consider that regardless of why you are paying more for the tuk-tuk, you are being given somebody known to the guesthouse or hotel that should (in theory) be charging consistent rates known to the establishment where you are staying. Additionally, by using someone known to the establishment, they should be able to intervene if there is a dispute over service/fees/driver doesn’t show up, etc. There will be very little possibility of recourse if you take somebody off the street. Now why do they cost more? In many cases the hotel or guesthouse is taking a kickback- usually $2 from a tuk-tuk, $5 from a car. If they are not taking a kickback there is usually some kind of other arrangement, i.e. – drivers provide free labor from time to time, run errands for the guesthouse, etc. But ultimately whatever arrangement exists it is between the driver and the business. All you need to know is that for a couple of extra bucks you shou
