[This week it’s all about my fave Android Apps]

I’m a huge fan of Google — if you couldn’t already tell — and Google Maps is probably the only map I use. Even more so now that my GPS is in need of a car charger. So having it integrated in my phone is wonderful.

It has all the different layers that you would usually see online.

My favourite layer (yes, I have one of those) is the Traffic layer. This is especially good for the days you want to avoid rush hour, or you are stuck in a crazy traffic jam in the middle of the day and want to figure out why.

The map usually updates with accidents and road work, and I’ve found that it’s close enough to real time to be helpful. Once I was stuck in a traffic jam and we weren’t moving, when I pulled up the map to see how much longer I’d be in traffic, it showed me an accident ahead so I knew how many lanes were blocked and could then decide whether I should try to leave the highway or not. Since it was just an exit away I waited it out.

Of course you can use the map for directions. You can go from your location — based off of the GPS — or you can go from an address.

I’ve always wondered, why a kayak to cross the ocean? Why not a sailboat, or even a canoe? It doesn’t matter, I wouldn’t be going to Australia by car anytime soon. However, I will be going other places by car, so I’m happy to report that I will not be upgrading my GPS nor will I be buying a car charger for it, as long as I have my phone I should be fine.