Uber is one of the best things to happen to Chicago commuters in a very long time. It’s basically an on-demand private driver for those who like to travel in style, even if it is for a short distance. This is the perfect car service for those who absolutely loathe the CTA and/or have had bad experiences trying to get a taxi.
According to Uber community manager Max, “ The Second City doesn’t deserve second class transportation. Whether talking business in the Loop, club-hopping in River North, or eating your way through Bucktown, [Uber Chi] is the most convenient and luxurious ride in the city.”
Although I can’t stand Chicago being referred to as the Second City, I agree we deserve first class transportation. While Uber does have a taxi service, I’m all about their black car and SUV services. The black car is a sleek sedan that seats up to four people, and the SUV is just as sleek and black but sits up to six passengers.
After signing up for Uber, all you have to do is send them a quick text or use their Android or iPhone app to let them know where you want to be picked up. It’s basically 24/7 and it’s that simple. They send you a text telling you the estimated arrival time and dispatch the nearest driver. They also have a rating system so you can see how other passengers rated the driver that’s picking you up. No need for cash because your card is on file when you sign up, no need to tip because it’s all included in the fare. You can click here for more information and the pricing system.
There is a tragic side to this; I have no idea if Uber will be in Chicago for much longer. While I hope they continue to do business in Chicago, our local legislators are trying to ban limo companies that use electronic measurement devices and time or distance based charges. It doesn’t make sense though because there are other limo companies that charge this way. You can learn more about that here, but for now Uber Chi is up and running and making commuting in Chicago much more luxurious and bearable.
Image: Uber CEO
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