Google has video taped millions of miles of streets and walkways. Going into street view allows me to virtually walk down the street in much of the western world. This is a remarkable tool, that has only been available for a couple of decades. Being able to do this on demand, was beyond the dreams of our parents.
What am I looking for? Traffic, parking, entrances and exits. Restaurants, shops, hotels, and attractions. I can get a real feel for the place, long before I arrive there. Knowledge of a few landmarks help me to navigate unfamiliar shores.
I did that once before Budapest....and I agree it is amazing and helpful...I just haven't gotten into the habit yet.
ReplyDeleteIt really helps in cities
DeleteI think Street View was available when we visited Japan. I wish I used it in advance to find out how to get to our hotel, a short walking distance away but from a a mega train station with multiple exits. We depended on the kindness of some rather nice policemen.
ReplyDeleteReminds me of Athens, I took the subway from the airport train, and then just knew where to go from there to the hotel.
DeleteGreat tip!
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing the places you can see,
DeleteIt's so good to hear that someone else does this besides me. I always check out hotels this way. I want to make sure the hotel I choose is located in a good spot with walkable streets around it.
ReplyDeleteI was looking for restaurants the other day, when I was booking for a short trip to NYC later this year.
DeleteI never thought about doing that, but it's a great idea!
ReplyDeleteWill I come up with 100 good ideas?
DeleteI agree with you about the usefulness of Streetview before you get somewhere. I also use it before driving to unfamiliar places - looking mostly at junctions. It also helps me to locate potential safe parking places before long country walks.
ReplyDeleteI do that also
DeleteThis is a great idea! Maybe your tips will encourage me to try traveling farther from home again. My last big trip was Italy in 2019...
ReplyDeleteItaly is an amazing country.
DeleteMore good ideas; you are good traveler
ReplyDeleteMost of the time
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