Vladivostok - Post Report Question and Answers
Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Very. I didn't find buses or trams as smelly or dirty as others have noted. It's Russia. It's the Far East. I've been on some pretty dirty subway trains in New York as well and didn't find public transport here to be particularly bad. Taxis were becoming more reliable by 2015 with radio dispatch companies sending reliable cars to you (you must speak Russian in order to make requests, however). Marked taxis were more expensive, but far safer than flagging down local "gypsy" cabs (private drivers hoping to make extra money). Same advice in any country - be extra careful at night and if you feel that the car is taking you somewhere other than your destination, trust your instincts. In three years at post, I don't recall any reports of people being attacked or robbed by drivers, though. Very safe if you are smart. - Jun 2017
Buses are cheap and safe, but stinky. Taxis are also not too bad, but probably not too safe (even though I used them a lot). There are no registered taxis. Just some random guys who drive around and pick up passengers. It's better to take them in groups. - Apr 2012
Available and affordable. Currently 11 rubles per trip. - Jun 2009
Safe, relatively. Affordable? Yes. - Apr 2009
