Have you seen the Chrysler ad that involves the family lost in the desert? The man knows he is not lost and does not have to use his GPS system. The camera then shoots from a distance while showing the car (towing a boat) turn right in the desert. This is just one example of the need for getting driving directions. Where do we turn? Plus, It is that time of year when many hop in their car and travel somewhere. The ‘road trip’ is a favorite past time of America. Even with the high cost of fuel, it appears the road trip will exist. With all the methods available to find our way, how can we best get some good driving directions?
Rand McNally: Before the computer came into existence, there was the old standby Rand McNally Road Atlas. Invented in 1924, this Atlas has a map of each individual state along with information about geographic/demographic statistics. In addition to starting with a USA map with interstates listed, it also contains Canada and Mexico. To ease driving directions, there is a city legend on each page. In addition to individual states, the more populated cities have ‘magnifying glass views’. These offer a more pronounced method of seeing street names.
The Road Atlas also contains information on golf courses nationwide, toll road information, points of interest, and mileages between different cities. The mileage chart is a definite boost to helping with driving directions. Of particular interest is the section of yearly Events and Tourism Information. This is a great benefit to find out what is happening, when, and how to contact the various offices. Safety is important on any trip, and this Atlas has a section on Travel Safety & Crime Prevention.
In addition to the Atlas in book form, it is available on DVD. Use whatever is easiest for you to help with your driving directions.
Navigation Systems: Another great way to ease driving directions is the use of an in-car navigation system. Newer automobiles offer the option with OnStar coming to mind. If a factory-installed version is not possible, there are GPS manufacturers with hand held devices available for purchase. They can be rather pricey, but the security may be worth it.
Travel Clubs: There are travel clubs (“discount clubs”) available for the specific purpose of helping you with your driving directions. Some clubs will provide you with discounts on hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities. In addition, they usually have a toll free number to call whereby you can inquire about driving directions. Search online with ‘travel clubs’ for the one to your liking.
The largest travel club is AAA. For members, they offer a wealth of information and assistance to the traveler. They will help with your driving directions by mapping out your entire road trip. Members will receive maps of each traveled area, a highlighted (one page) course, and suggestions for tourist activities. All the member need do is follow driving directions. How nice is that? If you notice any discrepancy during your trip (roads closed, detours, etc.) simply contact AAA upon your return. They will them update their records. This helps other members. Contact your local AAA office for more information.
Professional Truckers: That’s right, professional truckers. Any experienced trucker will provide you with more driving directions information than you can imagine. They have traveled extensively. They know the intricacies of various areas. Truckers know shortcuts since they make a living from it. Show them a map of the USA and they will steer you on the right path. They may even help you prepare your vehicle for the road trip.
Online map sites: Mapquest, Yahoo Maps, MSN Maps, etc. For the computer user, these map sites can be very helpful in finding your driving direction. The user simply inputs the beginning and ending addresses. With the results obtained, the user can either print up a map or obtain driving directions in text form. The driving directions include breakdowns for each step of the trip along with mileage. Also included is the ending address at the end of the trip. Many times, though, it is recommended to call your destination beforehand. There have been mistakes made via these online driving direction sites. For instance, one time a friend was directed to go north on the interstate, while going south was the correct way.
Well Traveled Friends: Many a well-traveled friend has the ability to help you with driving directions. Auditors, traveling athletes, executives, etc. can help in this area if asked. You may be surprised how much information is there. Just ask. Of course, be sure to double check your information prior to your trip to be safe. That way it is not hear say.
Road Motorcyclists: This group of individuals seems happiest on the open road. They like to explore new areas and share their finds with others. Ask and ye shall seek for your driving directions.
Locals: Once in your destination, the local residents are a wealth of information on driving directions to get to local areas of interest. Locals are usually proud of where they live and want to share it with others. It is an enjoyable way to learn about local cultures while experiencing new people. Plus, driving directions are usually good.
