>> I think if people had been content with calling a taxi cab, no one would have ever heard of Uber.

That's why uber is mostly a flop in Japan.

Taxis everywhere. Flat rates to airports in many cities if pre-booked. If you call for one, the driver comes inside the hotel lobby to take your bags. He helps with luggage all the time. Shuts off the meter when destination is in sight and there's a traffic jam.

In may other countries (like where uber is from?) , taxi drivers are ......