Merry Christmas to me. I acquired a Garmin Nuvi 650 this holiday season. I used to loathe these devices. “It makes you weak,” I would chant. However, my opinion has changed. No, I still think its a needless electronic crutch for most day to day activities. However, there are two important features that a GPS offers.
First, real-time traffic. In this day and age, why do we still rely on sporadic radio reports to determine the most efficient route to a destination. Based on the sensors found on our freeways, GPS devices can route you based on current traffic speeds. For an annual fee, this dedicated service takes the guess work out of getting there. Now, I don’t have to wonder if I should get off the damn freeway or hold out for a few more exits.
Second, POI’s. More specifically, you can download red-light camera and speed trap POI data off online resources and load them into your GPS device. A little extra knowledge goes a long way. And, if you manage to avoid a ticket or two, your GPS device will pay for itself.
Most of the time, my Nuvi sits securely in the apartment or locked way in my glove compartment. I don’t need directions to the market or my neighborhood. But, during rush hour or on those random drives to new and exciting places, a Thompson guide doesn’t hold a candle to modern technology.
