Dear Taxi Man....

Dear Taxi Man, 

 This is my letter to you Mr. Taxi man. When I am in your car my life is in your hands. There are several people here as well as back in the states that would be very angry at you should anything happen to me. So out of respect for my life, when I am in your vehicle please follow these rules since after all I am the one paying you. These rules are simple, easy and will ensure that I make it from point A to point B safely. Thanks!

First of all, thank you Mr. Taxi man for not smoking in your car I dont want to smell like your cigs after I leave the tax and I dont want to feel like I am damaging my lungs while having to sit in the back seat inhaling the awful smoke. 

Next, don't think that since I don't speak Turkish that I am dumb tourist and wont notice if you don't push that timer button. For I am not a tourist and I will not pay you if that timer revels upon arriving at our destination that the price is zero. In which case you then apologize and throw out a random price suggestions which I know you will pocket. So push the button.

Follow the speed limit please. I mean this in both directions I dont want to feel like I am in the grand prix racing past the other drivers and swerving this way and that dogging buses and vans. I also dont want to feel like the taxi has no gas left and that we are creeping along while everyone else is whizzing past. So the rule of thumb should be no more then 10mph over or under the suggested speed limit.

Dont talk on your phone while driving with me in the vehicle. First of all I believe its illegal in Turkey (dont quote me on that) but still dont do it. You should have both hands on the wheel, and paying attention at all times. If you have to talk to other Taxi drivers on that walkie talkie thing, keep it short.

Who says its ok to smoke in the taxi if its illegal to smoke in all buildings throughout the city? DONT YOU DARE!

If you say that you "know" the place I am telling you to take me, and we end up at the taxi station cause you need to get directions... I get a free ride... end of story... dont lie.

Oh and please for the love of god! dont honk! I think its terribly unnessasary to honk at everyone and everything just for the sake of making yourself heard. I understand that in Turkey honking is some kind of "hey watch out here I am on your left side" or whatever but when I am in your taxi there is no need to honk its annoying.

Also, and this is the most important. I do not feel comfortable buckling up in your taxi. I know I should in case an accident happens but if you are following the above rules there should be no accident tamama?

These are my rules for you Mr. Taxi Man, follow them and we will both be happy! Thanks!