We know Tel Aviv and know it pretty darned well, old chap…so when people complain to us about parking, and getting around in The City That Never Sleeps, we get the feels for ya, really we do.
Which is why we feel the new ride-sharing service Bubble deserves a mention. Yes, yes, a ride-sharing service for getting around in Tel Aviv!
Bubble is actually a service run by the Dan bus company and Israeli smart ride-sharing company Via. It provides
adapted timetables and routes that are adjusted according to real-time demand so that the most convenient route for passengers is created. Its main purpose in life is to offer a cost-effective solution to often very expensive taxis and erratic bus lines. That’s pretty bloody good, if you ask me.
And just so you know, some 20,000 users signed up for use in its first month (April 2019). Definitely one to start considering!
But how do you use Bubble?
Download the app here. Though somebody should have told them that “B o” isn’t the nicest-smelling logo they could have come up with…
You’ll be picked up from the bus stop closest to your home, and yes, the route will be faster than the bus, although perhaps slightly different to the typical bus route.
Expect to pay at least 12 shekels per journey and 15 shekels during peak times (06.30-09.30 and 15:00-18:30). Senior citizens will get 50% off! You can also buy a block of ten rides in advance for 120 shekels. Payment is through the app itself – there’s no need to worry about buying tickets on the Bubble minibuses.
One thing: it only operates Sunday to Thursday…