(17 Mar 2015, 9:51 pm)mb134 wrote Having never rode Gold myself, just going off pictures, I thought that the seating looked far superior to that of Sapphire and MAX, as does the colour schemes, however I know pictures can be deceiving. As I've no idea, does Gold have Next Stop Announcements?

The seating has a special section on their website - http://www.stagecoachgold.com/comfortable-seats.aspx

Despite whatever ergonomics are on offer, I prefer something soft and relaxing to sit in. Leather or e-leather just doesn't do it for me, whether it be on the plane or on a bus.
When the vehicles on the X84/85 were on the 20's, I loved sitting on the seats. They were lovely and comfy.
It is interesting to note, the budget and charter airlines have been using 'leather' for a few years now.

I never noticed or paid attention to next stop announcements to be honest.
Sat down, plugged my earphones in and watched the world go by, until it was my stop.

I have done the S1 and S2 in Oxfordshire a few times now, but will have a look next time I use them to see what the next stop arrangements are.