How To Travel Around Johor Bahru Like A Pro With Uber and Grab

Before Uber and Grab, travelling around Johor Bahru with their taxis can be quite stressful as the drivers usually do not go by meter and you’ll have to haggle quite a bit. But hey, you can now travel around Johor Bahru easily without getting fleeced :p

I’ve used both Uber and Grab- and to be honest, I’ve pretty pleasant experience using both. Here are some good-to-know so you can get around JB like a pro too!

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#1. Get a data plan

A SIM card can cost as little as RM8 and if you are a Singtel user, you can even activate the monthly Readyroam plan for $10/1GB of data. This will allow you to book rides everywhere you go and in case drivers are unable to reach you, you can always add their contact number to your Whatsapp and give them a call.

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#2. There’s still surge on Uber

Remember the old days where Uber has a surge pricing (for e.g. 1.6x during peak hours)? They no longer practice that in Singapore but they still do that in Malaysia. In case you are wondering what that means, that means you’ll not know how much your ride costs until your ride ends.

For this reason, I prefer to use Grab but I’ll tell you why there are times I prefer Uber in my next point.

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#3. Look out for promo codes

Although I prefer Grab’s fixed fare system, Uber is really generous with their promo codes. In order to know what promo codes they have, simply launch your Uber app and you will be prompted to apply certain promo codes. I’ve been offered up to RM10 off my rides and that means many of my rides are free even after the surge!

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#4. Some taxi stands are “unofficial”

This is why having data is important. There can be several taxi stands/drop-off points at a shopping centre and unlike Singapore, there can be no signages. In fact, some taxi stands are “unofficial” taxi stands and only locals would know where they are. Thankfully, the drivers I met so far are really patient and would try their best to get to where I am.

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It’s really not difficult getting around Johor Bahru these days and yes, that means you don’t have to stay in City Square or Komtar Mall anymore! Find out what’s our must-have food itinerary and conquer every single one of them with your Uber/Grab app 😉

[Edited on 30 Mar 2018: Uber has been acquired by Grab in SouthEast Asia so Uber is no longer an usable app in Malaysia. Please use Grab only!)

Emma
My parents think I travel too much but if not now, then when? New experiences excite me the most and that's why I rarely visit the same city twice unless (a) they have awesome food and (b) they have awesome food.
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