Originally Posted by
jakartaresident
I actually recommend you avoid Express taxis and stick only with the Blue Bird group. An Express driver once tried to rip me off, and when I threatened to complain to his company, he attacked me. I don't know how common this is, but I wouldn't take the risk by trying an Express taxi, even if it is a bit cheaper.
I'm sure that there are a few bad apples in every organization. I've actually had more trouble with bluebirds taking the long way around (annoying for the time wasted rather than the extra 20 cents), but have never had that happen with Express.
If they ask you if it is your first visit to Jakarta: lie. I've also found that throwing a few words of Indonesian into the conversation when I get in makes a difference -- if they think you know your way around, they are much less likely to try to "take you for a ride."
I still feel safer in a cab in Jakarta than I do in LA.