How to Find Driving Directions

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.