Whether you travel for business or pleasure, the experience can be a harsh lesson in life. Good organization using the latest Web 2.0 travel web-based resources can decide whether your trip is hassle-free or pure pain. In addition to the familiar do-it-yourself travel booking sites, more specialized websites provide information, organization, and control. Here is a “favorites list” of experienced travelers who not just survive but enjoy their away-from-home “ordeal”:
Dontforgetyourtoothbrush.com (DFYT) is “the ultimate holiday checklist” that helps you organize and “forward” plan what to do BEFORE you leave on your trip in a customizable and easy-to-follow list. After choosing a holiday category you can receive packing lists and other planning reminders.
Tripprep.com, an online and cell phone web resource, offers lists of travel health and safety tips and world-wide medical service providers (including address, phone, hours of operation, and email). Combine this information with, for example, Google Maps for nearby resource and directions.
SleepingInAirports has been a possibility that crosses many a travelers mind! Whether out of necessity or financial need this website provides user-submitted reviews to assist in a decision. Remember to make certain your chosen airport allows people to stay on their property.
TheBathroomDiaries is a database that will mean “one less thing to worry about”! It will help keep your mind clear, calm, and organized. Consider a search-enabled, social media network that provides updated information about 12000 bathrooms around the globe! This website is also accessible from your cell phone. For US locations, access MizPee.
TravelPost by KAYAK provides travel guides, hotel reviews, Wi-Fi and Internet access information, travel deals, cheap flights, and a variety of other information in the form of articles and blog entries. Just enter the name of a city or hotel and click Search.
Urbanspoon is an excellent food review website that mixes opinion with menu prices. This site will help you organize your itinerary around a common activity; eating! Once you sign in, you can benefit from listings of over 60 US cities, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Cell phone applications, including the iPhone, are available.
Probably most important “website” you can access is any online search engines! Consider Google Maps as a free and valuable travel application. Alternatively, use a Google search query like “travel X to Y” for all kinds of web content. Filter your search results with the new Show Options (in the top left corner beneath the Google search box) feature, using Blogs, Forums, and Reviews. Sort your results for current date ranges and you will ensure “fresh” search results.
Reference:
Schein, Phillip “Top iPhone Travel Applications AKA Apps”
