Unsung Heroes: An Uber driver talks how to get the VIP treatment and be a better traveler in 2021
Uber drivers are one of the unsung heroes of the travel world, whether you're at home or in a new city. You can always count on your local Uber driver to get you from point A to point B safely and without worrying about a metered fare. Just request a car and you're on your way.
Many Uber drivers have worked through the pandemic in order to provide transportation to essential workers and get the most vulnerable to their vaccine appointments. And now that things are slowly going back to normal, we're again relying on these drivers to get us to the airport, to our hotel or anywhere else you may need to travel.
For more insight into the life of an Uber driver, we're sitting down with Pittsburgh-based Uber driver Diane Bushman on this edition of Unsung Heroes. Here, you'll learn a little more about the job and how you can get the VIP treatment the next time you need a ride.
Unsung hero: Diane Bushman, Uber driver
TPG: How did you get into becoming an Uber driver?
DB: Well, I was an empty nester and I wanted just a little job. I'd been home with my kids for 25 years, so I was reluctant to commit to a job that would demand me being there at some time. So flexibility was tremendously important. My daughter had a baby, so I could go and spend a month and a half with her without having to tell anyone. That flexibility was really important.
And also: I love to drive. I always say that I would drive four days instead of fly four hours. So it's like a little road trip every day, but I get to sleep in my own bed.
TPG: How long have you been an Uber driver?
DB: It'll be three years in July.
Related: You can now get $50 monthly Uber Cash, Uber Pass subscription with WeWork All Access
TPG: What does a typical work week look like?
DB: I typically drive three days a week, sometimes four. I usually go out in the afternoon just because that's what best fits my personal clock. I also find that it's busier and there's very little downtime, but currently, there's never any downtime because I think there's a nationwide shortage of drivers.
So, I usually go out around 4 pm and usually come home around 9 or 10 pm. I used to drive later, but recently there was an Uber driver killed in Pittsburgh...so that has made me a little bit nervous.
TPG: What is your favorite part of the job?
DB: I love almost everything about it. I wake up every day and think that driving sounds like a good idea. I like driving around and seeing what's happening in the city and chatting with my passengers. I like feeling like a part of the community. I sometimes see a neighborhood I've never been to before, even in 30 years of living in Pittsburgh.
I love the gamification aspect of the app too. It's like a treasure map I follow to make money. Even though I don't fully depend on my Uber income — which is another thing that makes it less stressful for me — it's still fun to make money that way.
Related: How to use the Amex Gold’s new $10 monthly Uber credit
TPG: What is your least favorite part of the job?
DB: You know, I don't really have that many complaints. I have very few people who aren't clean, you know, just basic hygiene. And most people are very respectful of my car and of me. It's just been overall a good experience in most ways.
TPG: What’s something anyone can do to be a better traveler in 2021 and beyond?
DB: If they need to stop somewhere along the way, it doesn't really bother me, but it probably does bother a lot of drivers. Even though I don't mind stopping and helping people out in that way, I think a lot of drivers are frustrated with that sort of mentality.
Also, I am personally unable to help people load things or unload things because of a condition with my hip. Most people are very understanding about that. I think many more fit and able Uber drivers would be happy to help though.
TPG: What is something a traveler can do to get the VIP treatment from you?
DB: There are places in Pittsburgh where it's difficult to pick people up or double-park. If passengers know they live in one of these areas, if they can somehow make that easier and pick a different nearby pickup area, that is helpful.
I picked up a gaggle of college girls recently on a very busy street. I was there double-parked and waited some minutes, and everybody who passed me was mad. So, pick-up spots are one way.
TPG: How does working in the hospitality industry change your idea of travel, or going on vacation?
DB: For me, it makes me realize there are all types of situations that Ubers can be used for. For example, I recently picked up a sample from a veterinary clinic. I took it to Ohio and it was a four-hour round-trip thing. Things like that are now possible — and sometimes practical with Uber.
Related: How I saved nearly $250 on a one-day car rental by taking a $110 Uber ride
When traveling to New York in the past, cabs were always an option and a necessity. But Ubers can make all kinds of things possible in other markets. The door-to-door aspect of it, and being able to be picked up in any neighborhood at any time opens up all kinds of possibilities in terms of getting where you need to be.
TPG: If you could go anywhere in the world on a vacation, where would it be and why?
DB: I have an interest in going to Africa right now. That is because of a series of books I read called the 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' and it just sounds like such an idyllic place with wonderful people.
Italy also has a piece of my heart since I lived there for a year and a half and it's always a wonderful place to go.
TPG: Tell us about the best vacation you’ve ever taken, or the best place you’ve ever traveled.
DB: Maybe my tenth anniversary trip to Italy with my husband. We went to Rome and Tuscany and then went down to Pompei.
Related: Here’s everything you need to know about the revamped Uber Rewards program
Bottom line
Diane is an unsung hero who loves her job, and it's great to see. A little flexibility on the riders' part in terms of pickup locations can go a long way, especially when in need of a minute or two to get ready or are requesting a ride on a busy street. Follow that advice, be respectful and chances are you'll get the VIP experience on your next Uber ride.
Safe travels!
Feature photo by Hrach Hovhannisyan / Shutterstock.com
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Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.