It depends on the country and city - here in Ireland the taxis are almost always a class act. My local taxi company allows payment via smartphone and even sends

It depends on the country and city - here in Ireland the taxis are almost always a class act. My local taxi company allows payment via smartphone and even sends you the invoice via SMS or email if you need it as a business expense. I've even had a driver turn off the metre and show me around once he realised I was new to the city. And tipping, although appreciated, is not at all mandatory like in the states.