12.26.25: The Taxi Meter Negotiation

In some cities, the meter is law. In others, it's a suggestion. You get in, say your destination, and watch the driver's face calculate whether you're worth the truth. Tourists pay triple. Locals pay what they've always paid. Somewhere in between is you, the long-term foreigner who speaks just enough of the language to be annoying. The negotiation happens in glances. You point at the meter. He sighs. You both know the game. Sometimes you win. Sometimes you pay extra because you're tired and the AC works and that's worth something too.