Tuk-tuk popular public transportation in France. A velo taxi, or bicycle taxi, driver (L) waits for customers near a "tuk-tuk" (R), or three wheeled auto rickshaw, in Paris August 18, 2011. The tuk tuk, a mode of public transportation found commonly in Southeast Asian countries like Bangkok and Phnom Penh, is becoming an increasingly popular choice of travel for tourists in France during the summer holidays. However, unlicensed transport companies have sprang up to produce imitations since the tuk tuk's inception in France three years ago, creating strong competition for taxis, according to local media. It costs around 20 euros ($28) for a short trip on a tuk tuk and close to 300 euros ($431) for a full day trip.