Maps

There are lots of map programs available.  MapQuest is a favorite for many.  There are also Yahoo Maps, and Bing Maps available for use on the PC, although I haven't used them much.  Personally, I like Google Maps.  It is usually pretty accurate has many useful features, and I have gotten used to it over the years.  That will be my focus on this post.

Google Maps Desktop

Google Maps is handy on the desktop.  I can find an address, use Google Street View to see a picture of the location, get directions from another point, view current traffic, get a prediction on traffic at certain times or days of the week, etc.

I can also search an area for specific businesses or categories (restaurants, hotels, gas stations, etc.).  Aside from directions, I most commonly use the traffic feature to see if my planned router is having any problems. Overall, I find it quite helpful and that it has improved over the years.

Google Maps Mobile

Google Maps is also available on my phone.  Since we usually want to have a map when in the car or otherwise on the move, my Google Maps phone app gets used rather heavily.  With mobile, I can do most of what I get from the PC version.  One thing I like especially is that if I search a destination on my computer, when I get in my car can prepare to set a destination on my phone, Google the last few destinations on my computer right there, so I don't have to type it in on my phone.

I can also have it read me directions while I am driving, much like a GPS.  Of course it is not a good idea to mess with any phone apps while driving.  In fact, it is illegal in most States to be doing anything on your phone while driving.  But if you set up your directions before you start, you can have your phone read directions to you over the speaker without touching the device.  You can also get a dashboard mount for your phone so you can see the directions without touching it.

Hint: running the map for a long time will drain your battery pretty quickly,  You may want to plug your phone into your car adapter for long trips.

I find Google maps on my phone to be better than the GPS built into most cars.  It seems far more accurate.  In addition, I can get real time traffic information on my phone, unlike the GPS.

Waze

On a recent recommendation, I started using a new app called Waze.  Waze is an app available for both iPhone and Androids.  It has your traditional maps, but also receives information back from other users to give you real time information about traffic speeds, etc.  It allows users to report problems, such as accidents.  It also allows the to report police speed traps.

I have used it for a few weeks and find it interesting.  Like Google Maps, you can set up directions ahead of time and have it tell you when to make turns.  Waze provides much more detail as you are driving along.  It warns you of potential traffic issues such as an accident reported ahead on your route.  Sometimes it provides a little too much information, such as telling me every time there is a disabled car on the shoulder ahead.

 I don't know if it will replace Google maps for me, but you may find it useful when driving.  Particularly if you drive in high traffic areas, Waze's real time traffic information and its ability to provide alternative routes on the fly can make it very handy to find the best way through a jammed rush hour.