Chic Savvy Mama

A Google guide to travel

SAMANTHA KEMP-JACKSON, Chic Savvy Mama

Most of us use Google to search the web and source information. But did you know Google is a great resource for planning your next family vacation? We’ve advanced well beyond the early days of the search engine, so whether you’re looking for details on the local culture or even what your intended destination looks like, Google can help.

Here are some Google offerings that can enhance your next vacation with the kids:

Photo Credit: iStock

Google Translate

You might be worried about navigating a foreign country without having a complete grasp of the language. With Google Translate, it’s not a problem, as this nifty tool allows you to input words and phrases in 58 languages.

To get started, simply go to translate.google.com and plug in a word or phrase. Specify your starting language (such as English) and the language to which you would like the phrase translated.

It will not only provide the correct spelling and phrase in the foreign language, but the audio component will also say it for you. This alone takes away some of the stress that many of us encounter when we’re traveling to a foreign land.

It’s a great tool to use on a mobile gadget such as your smartphone or tablet, since it will provide on-the-spot support when you’re feeling particularly tongue-tied. Or use it as a practice tool with the kids before you go.

Google Maps and Google Map Maker

You may have already used Google Maps in your everyday life for planning travel routes. But did you know that with Google Map Maker, you’re able to contribute personal updates about a particular locale and even see the most up-to-date maps of your current travel destination?

Google Map Maker encourages interactivity and input from people around the world, allowing you to take advantage of the latest information that has been provided by others who have traveled to your destination. For example, if there’s a route to a famous landmark that’s off the beaten path, you can find it using Google Map Maker. Similarly, share your findings while on vacation so that other travelers can use their time more wisely.

Google Maps for Biking Directions

Google Maps for Biking Directions

If you decide to explore your destination by bike, check out Google Biking Directions, now a part of Google Maps. This neat tool will provide you with details of bike-only trails, as well as dedicated bike lanes and roads that are designated or preferred for cycling. With this tool, you won’t have to worry about getting on a thoroughfare that changes to a less-than-friendly route for bikers.

Google Goggles

Not sure what that particular landmark is? How about the menu that’s staring you in the face? If it’s in a different language, you may feel stressed. With Google Goggles, the legwork is done for you — it’s like having your own personal assistant in the palm of your hand (via smartphone or tablet).

Use your phone or tablet to take a photo of the object, whether it’s a landmark, menu or book. Without having to speak a word, your Google Goggles will decipher the image and provide you with information similar to an online Google search. Think about the possibilities when you’re traveling with the family in tow — not only is it a “cool” and interesting technology, but it will also keep the kids busy.

Google Street View

Google Street View

Who wouldn’t want to get a full 360-degree view of their destination before they actually got there? With Google Street View, you can get the kids excited about your upcoming family vacation while you’re still in the planning stages. Go online and see what your hotel looks like. Check out your destination’s famous locales, beaches or restaurants. Get a full view before you go so you don’t waste time when you actually get there.

Google+ Hangouts

Feeling homesick? Are the kids itching to tell Grandma and Grandpa all about their travels? Google+ Hangouts is an incredibly simple way to connect with family and friends while you’re away, requiring only an active Gmail account and Internet connection. And you can invite more than one person to participate in an online meeting, so go ahead and include Grandma and your kids’ favourite aunt while you’re abroad.

Samantha Kemp-Jackson is a mother of four, with three under the age of eight, including identical twin toddlers. She blogs about her experiences of being a frazzled mom of many at Multiple Mayhem Mamma.

Date Added: May 24, 2012 | Comments (0)