I knew there would be a blog post in it when I decided to use Beloved’s GPS when I left to play Bowen guinea pig again for my Naturopathy student mate. I had been there once before so I sorta knew where I was going but I was keen to use the GPS.
I knew my anal retentive self couldn’t handle it when it told me in its voice with a European lilt:
‘At the roundabout take the 3rd exit’
I could SEE that it was taking me to Nicholson road but I am telling, ya – it was the freaking long way as far as I was concerned. After it corrected its course for my transgression (I taught Tiger that word) we were on our merry way and I got to my destination only slightly agitated. I don’t think the machine was much impressed either
On the way home I thought I would use it again. I was curious. If the route we took was the most efficient/shortest or whatever the hell it bases its decision on, would we then go home that way? One word. No. That is when I decided that Tom Tom and the petrol companies have got some sorta scam going on. Tom Tom takes us the weirdest way without being out and out ridiculous and the petrol companies rake in that extra lil bit of petrol consumed per car.
I am on to them!
PS: Next post – what happens when a cinema ticket seller tries to take on a high school teacher and a mental health nurse.
Hi B
Ditch the GPS/Satnav.
Getting lost is a goodness.
You need to read The Diceman.
regards
T
Lol – I own and have read The Diceman. Like I said – only used it once and did not like. I like using my ‘wits’ adn having an adventure
GYL
GYL, don’t forget there are lots of settings in the background that may have contributed to the route it led you on. Nonetheless, I agree with you, shortest doesn’t always feel shortest. I do like using my GPS cause it normally results in me seeing things I’ve never seen before without necessarily being lost.
Interesting philosophy there Mr H. The bit I liked best was when it starting beeping loudly at me. I thought I was running out of petrol but then I realised that 1) my car doesn’t beep when I am low and 2) how would the GPS know? lol – it was trying to tell me there was a red light camera. GYL
Ah yes the old GPS. When we went to Melbourne with some friends last year we were using a GPS to get from our Southbank apartments to the airport. We were first politely directed straight into the Crown Casino car park. After a bit of swearing we gave the “bi*ch” as she came to be known a second chance and she tried to send us straight into the Yarra. I’ve been terrified of the bloody things ever since!
Evil machines, sent to take over the earth
GYL
That’s funny Bee. I have this imagery of you pulling into a petrol station in desperation only to find your tank full :-p They’re handy things if you buy the right brand, set them up properly & are willing to be taken for a route you may have not gone on before
Sounds interesting….GYL
“Taken for a route”…great English me
I think I like that turn of phrase Mr H – rather amusing
GYL
Initially wrote “taken for a ride” then thought that might be misinterpreted, so intended to change it to “taken on a route” but changed half the sentence…lol
My sister is rather directionally challenged and loves hers. Although it wasn’t much help when she was attacked by a grasshopper and missed her exit. All the GPS kept saying was “You have missed the exit. Turn around now.” Yeah, it’s a highway and there are no exits anywhere. Not helpful.
Now you have given me a really good idea for a Xmas pres for MY sis. Although – I can read maps very well, I still don’t have automaticity with knowing my left and right. Sorta shameful at my age! GYL