Whether you live in Dallas or you’re visiting, getting around can be…interesting. Unlike Chicago or New York, Dallas-Ft. Worth is a web of highways spread out in every direction instead of a city filled with efficient mass transit. But very similarly to Chicago or New York, parking can be a nightmare. Who wants to spend 20 or 30 minutes circling a parking lot or and then end up paying crazy valet fees?
Ridesharing has been popular in Dallas for a few years now, but if you watch the news, you know this hasn’t been without some issues. And some of them can be pretty scary. People pretending to be professional drivers, drivers with no background checks, and unsafe drivers…all valid concerns. Even if you’re lucky enough to score a safe, friendly driver, you’re sometimes in a vehicle that you are pretty sure hasn’t been cleaned out since 2003. In all fairness, I wouldn’t say this is the norm, but if you use ridesharing services enough, you come across some sketchy experiences now and again.
So, what is the best way to navigate Dallas if you don’t want to sit in gridlock on the highways or pay crazy parking fees at a concert, the airport, or a night out in Uptown/Deep Ellum/ HPVillage? A company came to town this year that made all that easier while also focusing on safety. Oh, and comfort….but more on that in a minute.
Alto is a new ridesharing company with a luxury look and feel, but the price is still standard…you’ll pay around $57 to go from Uptown to DFW Airport.
According to their website, ” …you get an experience that’s better than a typical black car — for way less.” Using the Alto app, you can book your ride and choose from an in-app custom playlist and “do not disturb” option if you don’t feel like making small talk with your driver. The vehicles are cleaned daily (germaphobes everywhere rejoice!) equipped with wifi, water bottles, charging cords, and umbrellas for rainy commutes.
Those safety measures I was talking about? The business tracks its vehicles’ speeds and uses interior and exterior cameras to detect distracted driving.
All drivers are background checked and W-2 employees. Hallelujah!
When it comes down to it, a ridesharing service that ensures greater safety seems well worth it to me. (Plus, if you are a business owner, consider this another helpful tax write-off if you use Alto for business travel and meetings.) I was incredibly comfy in the car and LOVE the charging cord…I could have charged my phone, iPad, and a third device on one charging cord! It doesn’t get more bougie than fast wifi so you can work while you ride. Multi-tasking is the new procrastination, people!
Download the Alto app and check out the coverage area in DFW. The company is rapidly expanding their service area and plans to venture into other cities in 2020, so if you don’t currently live in or visit Dallas often, keep an eye out. The future of safe, luxury ridesharing is upon us, and I’m all in!
Photography: S. Jackson
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