Recently, the Coach Operators of South Africa, a subcommittee of the South African Bus Operators Association, introduced specific categories for buses and coaches. Let’s explore these categories: Standard/Commuter Bus: These are basic buses commonly used for daily commuting. They serve as standard transportation for passengers. Semi Luxury Coach with Air-con: Semi luxury coaches provide a step up from standard buses. They come equipped with air conditioning. However, their seat configuration is important: if the seats are arranged in a 3x2 configuration, they fall into this category. Luxury Coach: Luxury coaches offer a more comfortable experience. They have seats that are either 2x2 or 2x1 in configuration, allowing passengers to recline. Additionally, they feature air conditioning and often include amenities like a Radio/DVD/PA system. Super Luxury Coach: The top tier of coaches, super luxury coaches come with additional features. These include a rear engine, toilet facilities, and a fridge. They encompass all the features of a luxury coach. The key distinguishing factor is the presence of a double door. If a coach has only one door but still includes all the luxury features, it is considered a Full Luxury coach. Important Note: Super luxury coaches must not be older than 5 years. After this period, they revert to being classified as only Luxury coaches. Next time you’re booking transportation, inquire about the features of the coaches to ensure you know what to expect at the pick- up point.