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Before my trip to Lisbon, Portugal and Madrid, Spain, I watched my fair share of European travel advice videos on YouTube. Usually, when I travel to major cities, I prefer to book a spot that’s walkable and easily accessible to transit. But every so often, a cab ride is necessary.
When researching, Bolt was the recommended ride-share app to use in both Lisbon and Madrid. Travel bloggers claim Bolt was cheaper and more convenient than Uber in Europe. I downloaded the app, entered my credit card details, and was prepared to ride around like a real local.
When I landed in Portugal, the tunnel for arriving travellers was plastered with Uber ads. But I already downloaded the Bolt app and did all the strenuous work of auto-filling my information to open an account, so I stuck to the plan and ordered a Bolt to my Air BNB.
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Lisbon is a historically beautiful city with architecture filled with charm. However, part of that charm is the cobblestone sidewalks on steep hills which aren’t so forgiving. On my excursion to Castelo de São Jorge, I ordered a Bolt to preserve my ankles, but my order kept getting cancelled. I checked my Uber app and was surprised to find the rates were comparable. I ordered a ride, jumped in the Uber and deleted the Bolt app.
At Madrid-Barajas Airport, I was again greeted with numerous Uber ads (as well as some grifters). I decided to take the Uber experience from the airport to my hotel. Upon ordering my ride, the app provided directions with photos that led to the Uber-only section, away from the congested pick-up area.
Most Uber vehicles in Madrid are heavily decayed. This is especially helpful if you’re not familiar with European cars. The driver is arriving in a Renault Clio? Sure, I’ll look out for that.
Within the tourist areas in both Lisbon and Madrid, there are massive Uber and Uber Eats ads on buildings. What’s interesting is there are no other large advertisements in these areas, making them scream for attention.
Lastly, as a solo traveller and a foodie, using Uber Eats was key to trying some local cuisines without the awkward feeling of sitting by myself in a dining room, like I got stood up on a date. I’m not trying to live out high school again.
Curious to learn more about MP’s adventures abroad? Stay tuned for future Our Take #PassportToMP blog posts where employees will share their work away experiences.