Astana - Post Report Question and Answers
Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Yandex is the local taxi - have cash in hand and be ready to chat in Russian. - Jun 2021
Never took the bus. Occasionally took gypsy cabs - negotiate fare with the driver - generally safe. - Oct 2017
Local buses are very cheap but crowded. Public transport infrastructure is 10 years behind where it should be. Many expats use "gypsy cabs" by sticking their arms out at a 30 degree angle and negotiating a rate with the driver. Knowledge of rudimentary Russian is a must. There are marked taxi services that are considered safer, cleaner but are more expensive. - Oct 2016
We have not used these much but they are safe and clean. Taxis are affordable. - Jun 2014
Taxis are cheap. Haven't used the buses or trains. - Sep 2010
The trains aren't as cheap as in other former Soviet countries--plus, there isn't really a nearby city to take a train to! - Jul 2008
I haven't taken local trains or buses but I've heard from locals that buses are not safe especially for women. Gypsy taxis are generally ok. Just use the basic rule not to get in one with a passenger already inside. - Jan 2008
