The application
BlaBlaCar is a carpool application where people who go to work by car, for example, can register their trip, and other people who also happen to have to go that way can travel along for a fee. Drivers can save money on petrol and it is also better for the environment. The rides are offered for low prices and you often have a wide choice of boarding places and time of departure. The great thing about the application is that you can also choose who you travel with, and you will see the reviews of previous passengers. Personally, I think this is the most important, so that you get into the car with a familiar feeling. BlaBlaCar itself also checks the driver for ratings, driver’s license and ID so that it remains safe. After you have taken a ride, it is possible to post a review yourself. If the driver cancels the ride, you get your money back. Even if you cancel the trip yourself, it is possible to get (part of) your money back. BlaBlaCar keeps users of the app alert by alerting them not to click on forwarded links or to ask if they can pay in cash. The only drawback is that you can only pay via credit card or PayPal.
Own experience
During my study International Business it was mandatory to follow an internship and minor abroad. I followed my internship in Málaga at JongLeren.es and my minor in a town in the southwest of Spain, Huelva. When I was in Málaga, I had often used BlaBlaCar to travel from Málaga to Marbella with friends. This was about an hour and we often chose the best price and time for this. When I traveled alone, the driver and reviews were the most important to me. It was quite common then that I was in the car for 3 hours and I wanted to feel safe during such a long time. During my Blablacar experience, most of the drivers did not speak English, I speak basic Spanish and this was the perfect time to improve the language with a native Spanish speaker! Often the conversations were about where I come from and that they have been to the Netherlands or know a Dutch person. A typical conversation with strangers when you are abroad! When I planned my trip to an unknown city, I often also asked for tips for activities and restaurants, because most drivers knew this place well. Often I could also be dropped off at a different place in consultation, because they drove past here, for example. Furthermore, I have never really experienced anything crazy, only that a woman had reserved a “seat” for her dog!
I have never had any problems with BlaBlaCar myself and the tip I want to give is to take a good look at what you find important when traveling with BlaBlaCar. Do you want to make a trip yourself soon and try out BlaBlaCar? Check out the website and see the frequently asked questions.
