Taxi business: 3 things unique to SA TAXI RANKS
Here’s more about three things you’ll only see in South African taxi ranks, including chickens – and something always for sale.
The taxi business is one of the things keeping South Africa running, though the ins-and-outs of local ranks can be difficult to explain sometimes. Some things are so unique to SA TAXI RANKS that anyone from outside the country might be a little confused without this guide.
ALSO READ: WATCH: SA’s Taxi Racing video game in action!
Have you ever?
If you’re a South African public transport commuter, the answer is probably yes.
ALSO READ: Taxi drivers in Grand Theft Auto 5 [Watch]
Here’s more about 3 things unique to the local minibus-industry, and things you’ll only see at ranks.
TAXI BUSINESS: 3 THINGS UNIQUE TO SA TAXI RANKS
The taxi business gets people around: from parties to friends, from friends to work, and from work to home. If you can’t navigate the system, you’re missing out on a large part of being South African – and all people should take at least ONE trip in their lifetime.
Here are 5 things unique to the local business (that you might not see anywhere else).
1. CHICKENS ON THE TAXI
Yes, you read that right: chickens.
It’s not uncommon for live chickens to be sold near (or inside) South African ranks. Sometimes chickens are meant for eggs or pets, other times… Well, they’re eaten, there’s no other way to say it.
There’s real ettiquette associated with loading a chicken on a taxi, including a trusted carry method.
2. SOMEONE SELLING SOMETHING
If you’re waiting in a vehicle for more than 10 minutes, someone is selling something.
Who is selling what?
This depends on the setting, the time of day, and what is going around. Anything from a single phone charger to chips for the road.
Sometimes you can even buy onions if you forgot at home.
3. THAT FOLDING TAXI SEAT
Let’s explain: as you get into the vehicle, the first seat to the side folds up.
It comes as a surprise if you’ve never seen it before. Sometimes it’s a surprise even if you’ve been in the car a hundred times.
If you aren’t careful, you’ll whack someone with the seat – or you might spend an awkward second trapped between the seat, the door, and the next person on the vehicle.
ALSO READ: Clarens, SA’s only loadshedding-free town: See here
SEND US YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS STORY
What did you think about this story? Send us your thoughts! Get in touch with the team at info@thesouthafrican.com.