Google maps, when asked for the route from Richmond to Boston, sent us through a very dicey area of Washington DC (Anacostia). Yes, it was the most direct route, but it took a few hours off our life.

Must have been one of those overcast days in Southern California...such thick cloud cover that the sun could not be seen. I weep to think that there are people who cannot determine direction by reference to the sun.

Bobmrg - maybe it was noon.

Actually, though, I find the best way to determine direction on a freeway is by the well-marked signs. When you are entering a freeway, they mark the direction. And, knowing direction from the sun isn't necessarily helpful. For example, the East-West freeway that runs closest to my house actually has a 3 mile stretch right by us that runs north-south to get around downtown. But it's still called east or west. You need to be able to read signs and maps, no matter what online map service you choose.

mapquest

Maybe trip to party by friend of OP was a cross-country trip, so 3 hours late wasn't that bad.

I have used google, expedia, yahoo and a few others. Lately mapquest has been my routing of choice. I do keep a cell handy and have the number of the place im trying to find just in case. I'm usually really good with directions, but still like a routing to follow.]

As mentioned, with any mapping software ymmv.

I like Google maps, but also an atlas just to make sure that the general directions sound right (yes, on paper, I know, so 20th century...)

Joanne
http://www.vactioning-with-kids.com

Bob, what is worse is that some people don't even KNOW the position of the sun (and resulting shadows) can help them figure out directions.

Try www.multimap.com .... gives directions and average travel times too.