Nathan Nguyen

Since early 2023, I have been driving for Uber and Lyft, embarking on a journey that transformed me from a novice to a seasoned expert in San Diego's streets. Initially, I faced many challenges, from unfamiliarity with the platforms to navigating the streets of San Diego. But after completing thousands of trips, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the city, including the best times and places to drive, the top attractions, and the best dining and shopping spots. I appreciate the flexible hours that allow me to explore hidden gems, meet incredible people, and spend valuable time with my family when they need me. This experience has not only helped me pay the bills but also deepened my understanding of the transportation industry.

As a rideshare driver, I frequently encountered situations where standard services fell short. Passengers often face challenges like unfamiliar drivers, unknown cars, last-minute cancellations, or living in remote areas where finding a driver is nearly impossible.. It felt like playing Russian roulette when relying on rideshare apps, with the uncertainty leading to late for flights, work, or important events. Recognizing these gaps inspired me to start my own business as a private driver, offering tailored services that exceed the limitations of rideshare apps.
With RidePal San Diego, I provide punctual service, ensuring that my clients know their driver and vehicle in advance, creating a sense of security and reliability. Passengers can enjoy extra amenities such as phone chargers, water, snacks, and entertainment. Visitors can also add amenities like car seats and beach gear for a more enjoyable experience. My services make rides more convenient and tailored to individual needs, allowing me to meet specific requirements, whether for timely airport transfers, assistance with young children, or reliable transportation to hard-to-reach areas. By offering this level of service, I deliver a superior experience, address the shortcomings of traditional rideshare services, and fulfill my mission to provide exceptional, customized transportation solutions in San Diego.

Since becoming a rideshare driver, I quickly realized that driving a gas-powered car came with significant expenses, such as fuel and maintenance. To address this, I decided to switch to an electric car, which offers cost-efficiency, reliability, and a touch of luxury. This decision not only lowered my operational costs but also allowed me to rent out my other vehicles on Turo, a car-sharing platform.

Since 2023, I have hosted numerous trips on Turo, gaining valuable knowledge and experience. My dedication to providing excellent service has earned me a 5-star rating and the status of a Power Host. Whether you need a car for a day trip or a road trip, you can check out my Turo profile to see a selection of vehicles that fit your needs. Each car is meticulously maintained to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for every renter.

Since late 2000, I have proudly served in the U.S. Navy, beginning my career as an undesignated Airman. I later became a Gunnersmate, one of the best rates in the Navy, and ultimately retired as a Chief Gunnersmate. Throughout my career, I gained extensive experience and took immense pride in my role, mastering various weapon systems including small arms, crew-served weapons, and ammunition logistics.
One of the highlights of my service was working as a Small Arms Instructor, Crew Served Weapons Instructor, and Anti-Terrorism Training Supervisor. I found great satisfaction in training fellow sailors, even if it meant occasionally spraying them with OC. However, ammunition administration was not among my favorite tasks. Since retiring, I often reminisce about the exhilarating range days, shooting weapons in the open ocean, and the adrenaline rush of pulling the trigger on a .50 caliber and M240B.
If you can relate to my experiences, I would love to share more stories during our next ride. My time in the Navy, culminating in my role as Chief Gunnersmate, has profoundly shaped who I am, and I look forward to connecting with fellow veterans and enthusiasts.