I seem to be considered an oddity in my dislike for taxis while travelling on business, both within my company and, in some places, with customers and other consultants.

Don't get me wrong, if I'm exhausted, it's 4am, or I have particularly heavy luggage, there's no contest, but otherwise... It's walking or public transport.

Why? Well, a number of reasons.

In many places, taxis take longer. Often much longer. Look at cities like Amsterdam that are not designed for cars, or congested, crowded cities like London.

If there's more than two of you, it can be pretty uncomfortable. Three people in the back of a small taxi for an hour is no fun.

It's not particularly conducive to reading. Apart from motion sickness, the lighting can be sub-optimal.

It's too isolated. (Bear in mind I don't own a car at home, either). I travel abroad weekly, and I like to see something of the place I'm visiting and the people there, even if it is just the train to the city.

It's less predictable. Yes, trains and metros are subject to delay, but traffic snarl-ups happen more often IME.

You're putting yourself in the hands of some complete stranger. In many places, you have to be on a constant lookout for rip-offs or worse. Or at least irritating conversation (you know, the stereotyped chattermouthed bigoted London cabbie).

You get to see motorways. How scenic.

I quite like taking a walk after the end of the working day, not being piled into the back of a car.

It just seems like a waste of money.

Many just don't seem to understand why I wouldn't automatically drive or be driven everywhere. I don't get it.