Local shuttle transportation services can be an excellent alternative to a taxi for a travelers transportation needs. Depending on where they are located, local shuttle transportation services can service airport transfers to hotels and local attractions, or even door to door airport transfers from the travelers home. Some local shuttle transportation services, may offer other services as well, such as hotel to port transfers or even local tours. Often, travelers are transported in multiple passenger shuttle vans on a shared ride basis. This means that unlike taxi services, local shuttle transportation services rarely offer private transportation. Instead, multiple parties may be picked up in the same vehicle. Those looking for private transportation would be better of utilizing a taxi service, rather than shuttle service. There is a significant cost benefit for using local shuttle transportation services, however. It can be a significantly less expensive way to travel, especially for smaller parties. Rates are often fixed between two locations on a per rider basis. Because fares are not metered, the total fare is known in advance, and riders are not charged an extra amount for time spent waiting in traffic. Before using local shuttle transportation services, riders should always inquire about taxi fares between the same two points. For those who are traveling with a larger party, or for an extremely short distance, a taxi may prove a better deal than a local shuttle transportation service. Travelers are encouraged to explore all transportation options before traveling.