Mapquest is impressive. What other simple online program uses easy left/right directions to instill such high levels of confidence in its users? The trek may be 500 miles, the location entirely unknown, the driver a complete travel novice, it really doesn’t matter. With a few clicks of a mouse, a Mapquest user can get colorful, concise directions from point A to point B. (The more advanced users may even add a point C.) Directions in hand, the traveler sets forth, assured of the fact that they will travel those 300 miles in approximately 5 hours and 9 minutes.

How could they possibly go wrong? Of course they’ll make that meeting, catch that flight, be at that wedding. Through use of their internet-savy, Mapquest users have found THE way to reach their destination. Mapquest is, obviously, infallible.

Except when it’s not.

This undoubtedly occurs when the Mapquest user is already in dire straights. For example, trying to find the airport to catch a flight that closes boarding in 10 minutes.
It is inescapably times like this that Mapquest leads its users astray. Faulty mileage estimates, misnamed streets, or directions that are just plain wrong. (For example, 600 W. Oak Ridge, Orlando is the address of a dilapidated gas station, NOT the airport.)

That is why smart travelers are wary of the Mapquest-instilled confidence and leave themselves plenty of time to do things like u-turns and stopping to ask for directions. This extra time prevents frantic scenarios that involve running barefoot through the airport, high heels in hand.

Not that I would know.

[Stacy, I owe ya one.]
[I prefer google maps.]