In my travels across the country, and as a driver in
the Los Angeles Area, I've learned the tricks of the
trade in time efficient travel.
Relying on maps, word of mouth, and as of lately, gps
navigation. That's global positioning system.
Two years ago I purchased the Garmin gps12 model.
This amazingly small (about the size of a cell phone)
device is extremely accurate, stores up to 500 way-
points and will even show your speed and altitude.
Anyone who drives for a living, or just for fun or
occasionally ventures into the wilderness should have
one. While hiking north of LA on Mount Pinos (see my
nature page) I became lost in the forest. Since I
programed the waypoints from my car, I was able to
return with no problem. In the city a gps device can
assist in bringing you right back to the door of the
place you are staying at. Unfortunately, this device
has not caught on with the average person, although
some newer model cars are equipped with premapped and
cellphone linked units. For those without, I've tried
to provide some usefull information here to determine
the choices involving your journey.
About mid 2003, I added another instrument to my nav collection...the Garmin Geko 301. This extremely small gps unit has much of the features as the gps 12, but also contains a built-in barometer. In 2005 I purchased a Nextel wireless phone with 2 way radio and gps antennae. This is helpfull when driving around without a map or mapbook.
Links to other sites on the Web
