The first few times I rode in an auto I went with my Indian friends. They bargained with the auto driver and knew our destination. Their experience made me feel comfortable with this new way of traveling. The first time I took an auto by myself I was very nervous. I didn’t know how to bargain with the auto drivers. They charged me a very high price for a short ride. I knew it should have been lower, but I felt bad arguing with them. I had trouble communicating with the drivers, as well. I don’t speak the local language, Kannada, very well. They knew some English but it was still difficult to communicate.
Ever since my first solo ride, I have taken many autos. Now I am comfortable bargaining with the auto drivers. I know how much a ride should cost, so they can’t overcharge me. It has become my favorite way of traveling around the city!
Many people in Bengaluru don’t own cars. Even if they do own a car, driving in the city takes a long time because of traffic. Autos are a cheap and fast alternative to driving. Fewer people driving means less traffic!
Riding in autos are a great way to connect to Indian culture. The drivers play their favorite Indian music while driving. They also decorate their autos with statues and pictures important to their religion. Talking with auto drivers has taught me a lot about Hinduism, a common religion in India. You can learn a lot from riding in autos!
