I came up with a brilliant idea this weekend while at my cousin’s house.  The  idea is simple, “To use Google Maps as a tool for planning a trip.”  As the Brits would say, ‘Bloody Brilliant.’

Some of you already know that I’ll be heading to Europe this coming Summer.  Yep, I’m finally going to make it happen, I’ve got a plan and everything.

Why I think Google Maps is a must have for Modern Day trip planning……

1) Topographical view
2) Street View
3) Options

When you plan a trip, very few people think of the overhead view, or the Topographical view.  This will give you an idea of the layout of the land.  Gives you an idea of what streets to take and makes route planning so much easier.

Street view is a great feature.  On most streets, you can place a man down and get a 360 degree view of the area.  Why is this great?  You get to see things you never would have known were there.  Possible sites and stores to physically see with your own eyes.  You can also click on the ground in Street view and go for a stroll down the street.

What about the options?  Well, there are always options.  Some of them, not necessarily noticed by the general public.  For example, with Google Maps, you can create a Picture Check List, of places you’d like to visit.  Then, when you get to those places, you can take an actual Photo and mark the place off the list.  Great idea right?  One that I will probably use.

Are there any other options you can come up with?  What about other reasons?