map of travel times

What is TravelTime?

Create a Travel Time Map

Travel time map generator & isochrones, i know i can get from a to b by public transport within my selected time, but it's not showing up.

• Walking to the station platform
• Waiting for the next available departure
• Time spent boarding the train
• Giving enough time to take the A to B journey
• Depart on the station on the other side.

You can't drive that far / you can drive much further than that"

• Open another mapping app of your choice and enter an A to B route
• Select a departure time for tomorrow.

Still not convinced?

About this tool, what is a travel time map, how to create a drive time radius map or other modes.

• Select a start location
• Select a maximum travel time limit
• Select a mode of transport, for example driving
• Voila! There's your driving radius map

Use cases for consumers

• Create a commute time map so you can see where to live based on commute time.
• How far can i travel in a given time: compare transport coverage for different areas.
• Create a drive time radius map: explore how far you can travel on a road trip.

Use cases for businesses

• Travel time mapping up to 4 hours & cross reference other data sets in GIS such as population data
• Site selection analysis: analyse the best location to locate a business by adding thousands of analysis points
• Create a distance matrix or travel time matrix & calculate travel times from thousands of origins to thousands of destinations
• Network analysis / travelling salesman problem: use spatial analytics to solve routing problems
• Commute time map - plot thousands of employee commute times for an office relocation
• Create up to 3 time polygons visualising where's reachable within 2 hours or less. Our API can create large travel time areas, talk to sales.
• Calculate travel times from an origin to various points of interest - in this demo we use points from Foursquare Give A to B routing details

Full access

• Book a demo
• Trial TravelTime API
• Trial QGIS Plugin
• Trial ArcGIS Pro Add-In
• Trial Alteryx Macros

TravelTime Features

• See 'How far can I get' in X minutes
• Create a drive time map or any other transport mode
• Overlap many shapes & highlight overlap area
• Search points of interest within the area
• Get A to B routing details

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

That way looks awesome today

Get real-time traffic alerts from fellow drivers and riders.

Get told when to leave

Waze knows it’s easier to plan your trip than your excuse for being late.

Start driving

Waze knows what’s around that corner. And that corner.

Get rerouted in real-time

Waze knows that route is sooo three minutes ago.

Need a pit stop?

Wondering if getting gas will make you late? Waze knows.

Maps + Apps

Listen to two things at once

Pair with your favorite music app, voice assistance feature, or even your car itself.

Schedule your drive around traffic

Once your trip is saved, sit back and relax. We’ll notify you when it’s time to leave.

“Because of so many people contributing, it feels like I'm part of something bigger than the navigation app alone.”

Bionca Smith, Wazer, Los Angeles

"I found some incorrect points on the map... my improvement was visible the next day–100% map magic."

Dennis Chi Ming Kao, Netherlands, Waze map editor

"Waze has been instrumental in helping us get real-time information out to the traveling public."

Jose Rivera, Port Authority of NY & NJ

Ready to hit the road?

You'll never travel without our trip planner again

Build, organize, and map your itineraries in a free travel app designed for vacations & road trips.

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

What travelers are raving about

Features to replace all your other tools, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions, plan like a pro.

Unlock premium features like offline access, unlimited attachments, flight deals, export to Google maps, and much more

Offline access

Unlimited attachments, optimize your route.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Discover your next favorite destination

Get inspired from guides around the world — with expert tips and recommendations from the Wanderlog community. See all Wanderlog travel guides.

Have tips of your own? Write a guide to share with other travelers like you!

Ready to plan your trip in half the time?

For every kind of trip and every destination, the best road trip planner, the best vacation planner, the best group itinerary planner.

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Plan your commute or trip

Find traffic & transit info.

You can use Google Maps to quickly find all of your frequent trips in one tap. You’ll get information about your ETA, the traffic reports and the accidents along the way.

​ Tip : To show the map, tap anywhere on the map or drag the tabs back down.

Change the way you commute

• Search for your destination in the search bar at the top.
• At the bottom, tap on “Directions.”
• At the top, select your transportation mode.
• Select your preferred route.

You can pin your trip and find it back in the Go tab next time you need it.

Turn off your regular routes

If your Location History is on, we might show you directions for your regular routes. If you don't want the routes you take regularly to be associated with your Google Account, you can turn off your Location History.

Note: Your regular routes are only visible to you.

• Scroll to “Location settings.”
• Tap Location is on .
• At the top, turn off Location History.

Check traffic now & later

To reach your destination as quickly as possible, check typical traffic before you drive. You can avoid the busiest times of day.

• Search for a destination, or tap a place on the map.
• At the bottom, tap Directions .

• The current traffic on your route
• Typical traffic by the hour and any slowdowns on the way

Change the mode of transportation for part of your trip

Tip: Only available on mobile and in some locations.

You can combine different modes of transportation, like driving, ride-sharing, or bicycling with transit on the same trip.

Once you’ve selected your route and can view the directions, you may be able to change how you travel for part of your trip. The rest of the route, like transit departure times and total journey time, will be updated when you change the mode of transportation.

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Need more help, try these next steps:.

Distance Calculator Between Cities for Precise Driving Distances

Efficiently find the distance between cities, including driving distances, estimated travel times, and detailed route maps for any journey in the USA, from cross-country adventures to short drives.

This distance calculator, covering the United States, North America, and worldwide, simplifies your travel planning. Enter your start and end points in the "From" and "To" fields — accepting city names, addresses, or GPS coordinates — and click "Calculate" to get started.

Customize your journey with "Fuel consumption" and "Fuel price" for cost estimates, and use the crosshair icon for map selections. Dive into "Advanced options" to add stops or adjust speeds, tailoring the trip to your pace and ensuring accurate travel time predictions.

Driving Distance Between Two Cities: US Route Examples

• Distance from Dallas to Houston
• Distance from Austin to Houston
• Distance from Seattle to Portland
• Distance from Dallas to San Antonio
• Distance from San Francisco to Sacramento
• Distance from San Francisco to San Diego
• Distance from Dallas to Chicago
• Distance from Houston to New Orleans
• Distance from Denver to Chicago
• Distance from New York to Chicago

Route Planner for Estimating Distance Between Two Points

Family Vacation Planning : Families planning summer vacations can use the distance calculator to plan their route, estimate fuel costs based on their car's fuel consumption, and calculate budget needs, ensuring a cost-effective and enjoyable journey.

Business Travel Optimization : Professionals can plot the most efficient routes for their business trips, incorporating distance calculations to manage time effectively and budget for travel expenses accurately.

Logistics and Freight Management : Long-haul truckers and freight forwarders can utilize the tool to map out routes between cities, estimate mileage, and calculate transportation costs based on company tariffs, optimizing delivery schedules and pricing.

Meeting Halfway : Friends living in different cities can find a central meeting point by calculating the halfway distance between their locations, making it easier to arrange reunions and share new adventures together.

Explore Functions of the City-to-City Distance Calculator

City distances evolve annually with the construction of new roads, highways, and bridges.

Our online Distance Between Cities Calculator complements your preferred GPS navigator by allowing you to map out your route in advance, while your GPS assists during the drive.

The calculator utilizes OSM data and incorporates key Google Maps functionalities, including:

• Viewing distances and routes on a map for a comprehensive journey overview.
• Interactive map features like zoom, drag-and-drop, and full-screen mode.
• Route customization by adjusting markers directly on the map or adding stops via addresses.
• Distance calculations in either kilometers or miles, with unit preferences adjustable in the menu.

Exclusive features of our calculator include:

• The ability to print, save as PDF/PNG, or export routes to GIS and GPS formats such as GPX, KML, and GeoJSON .
• A route scheme offering a sequence of cities and timing for passing intermediate cities, an efficient alternative to detailed turn-by-turn directions for long distances.
• Fuel cost estimation adaptable to various fuel types. Just input your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
• Capability to generate distance matrices, savable in Excel format, for comprehensive planning.

USA, North America, and Worldwide Coverage

138,192 localities covered in United States. 1,971,411 localities worldwide.

This service measures the distance between cities around the world and is available in several languages:

• English ca.drivebestway.com Canada Mileage Calculator
• Spanish www.mejoresrutas.com Traza tu ruta por México
• Portuguese www.melhoresrotas.com Calculadora de distância entre cidades do Brasil
• English au.drivebestway.com Aussie Distance Calculator
• English gb.drivebestway.com UK Road Distance Calculator
• Spanish es.mejoresrutas.com Calcular ruta entre ciudades españolas
• Spanish ar.mejoresrutas.com Calcular distancia entre ciudades argentinas
• Spanish co.mejoresrutas.com Calcular distancia entre ciudades colombianas
• Spanish us.mejoresrutas.com Calcular distancia entre ciudades de EE. UU.
• Spanish cl.mejoresrutas.com Calcular km entre ciudades chilenas
• Spanish pe.mejoresrutas.com Distancia entre dos puntos en Perú
• Spanish ve.mejoresrutas.com Distancia entre dos puntos en Venezuela
• Spanish br.mejoresrutas.com Distancia entre ciudades brasileñas
• Portuguese pt.melhoresrotas.com Calculadora de distância entre cidades em Portugal
• French www.bonnesroutes.com Calculateur de distance France
• French ca.bonnesroutes.com Calculateur de distance Canadien
• German www.besterouten.com Routenplaner Deutschland
• Polish www.najlepszetrasy.com Kalkulator odległości drogowych w Polsce
• Czech www.dobracesta.com Kalkulačka vzdálenosti mezi českými městy
• Italian www.percorsomigliore.com Calcola distanze chilometriche in Italia
• Malay www.pandujalanterbaik.com Pengiraan jarak antara bandar di Malaysia
• Dutch www.besteroutes.com Afstand meten in Nederland
• Turkish www.duzgunyolusec.com Türkiye şehirler arası mesafe hesaplama
• Dutch be.besteroutes.com Afstand berekenen tussen Belgische steden
• French be.bonnesroutes.com Calculateur de distance belge
• French ch.bonnesroutes.com Calculateur de distance Suisse
• German ch.besterouten.com Routenplaner Schweiz
• German at.besterouten.com Routenplaner Österreich

How Driving Distance Is Calculated Between Two Locations

Algorithm for calculating driving distances between cities.

This route calculation tool harnesses the power of shortest path search algorithms within a weighted road graph, employing sophisticated algorithms like Dijkstra, A-Star, and Contraction Hierarchies . Unlike conventional calculators that use distance or travel time as the graph weight, our system optimizes drive time for vehicles, favoring routes on higher-class roads for a smoother journey.

The backbone of this tool is built on OpenStreetMap data, ensuring our road graphs are accurate and up-to-date. We calculate distances between road segments with the haversine formula , using precise GPS coordinates to measure the Great Circle Distance. This formula is pivotal for calculating "air distance" or "straight line distance" between two points, taking into account the curvature of the Earth.

Road distances, however, diverge from straight line distances due to the natural curvature and layout of roads . To address this, roads are represented as segmented lines, and the haversine formula is applied to each segment, allowing for precise calculation of the journey length between any two points.

Recognizing that cities encompass large areas, our tool selects a central point within each city for distance calculations between cities. For personalized route planning, users can specify exact addresses or select points on the map. Additionally, the route's start and end points can be adjusted directly on the map for enhanced customization.

Travel time calculations break down the route into segments, evaluating the maximum permitted speed for each segment to estimate the fastest possible travel time.

It’s important to note that while our route calculation relies on advanced computer modeling for accuracy, no model is perfect. We encourage users to plan with a margin for adjustment to ensure a reliable and efficient journey.

Alternative Methods for Distance Calculation Between Two Addresses

One simple way to measure distance is by using a highway atlas. By tracing a route with your eye and rolling a curvimeter along it, you can gauge the distance. Estimating travel time involves assuming an average speed of 50 miles/hour on major intercity roads. Although this method provides rough estimates, it's straightforward.

In the absence of a curvimeter, a ruler can serve as a substitute. Start by aligning the ruler's zero mark with your route's beginning and follow the road's bends closely. Then, translate the measured length into kilometers or miles using the map's scale, which is typically provided in the atlas.

For those seeking a more streamlined approach, pre-calculated distance tables specifically for the USA are available on websites, atlases, and guidebooks. Particularly useful for journeys between major cities, these tables streamline planning, although they may omit smaller locales.

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Travel Time Map

Travel time is one of the most important criteria people use when choosing a destination. Whether traveling for work or leisure, people want to know what is within their reach, within a certain traveling time.

Travel time maps (also called driving time maps or isochrone maps ) show how far you can go from a location within a certain time.

In other words, Isochrones are a powerful analytic tool that offer exact answers to the question "what is within X travel time of this location?"

What Travel Time Maps Can Do For Your Business

People search for information online before making a trip, moving home, job hunting or even finding a specific store branch, which means travel time maps are becoming more popular in the business world. When you display travel time alongside search results on a map, it's easier for your customers to compare results. They don't have to click away to look up info on third-party maps. That keeps them on your website.

Using isochrones helps your visitors scout out locations and amenities based on the required travel time . Customizable travel time search means you display the results that matter to your customers, which establishes your business as one they can rely on.

With Geoapify isochrone maps , you can refine the route by your preferred mode of transport. Choose from walking , driving , truck , bicycle , or public transit . For example, find hospitals within twenty driving minutes of a location, or beaches within thirty public transit minutes.

With research showing that 85% of family travelers rank being near major attractions or theme parks as being of utmost importance when booking a holiday, providing a travel time map helps them make decisions.

Time travel maps help tourism businesses provide up-to-date and personalized information to their customers. For example, visitors can see which tourist attractions and amenities are in reach of accommodation so they can make the best choice.

Visitors can also check how close accommodations and amenities are to each other, making it easier to plan day trips and make sure they see all the sights they want.

Estate Agents

Estate agents can use isochrones to help customers find their next dream home. Having the right things within the right distance is a must when looking for a new home to buy or rent. The time to reach amenities and public transport is important to house hunters. For example, one study found that 25% of people in London said living near a tube is essential when choosing a new home.

Use isochrones to help clients search for schools within a certain walking distance of a property, or shops within a certain driving distance. Customers can also look for sports facilities, swimming pools, other leisure facilities, public transport hubs and more.

Time travel maps make it easier for people to visualize living in a location . They can get a feel for what they'll be able to do in their new location. Using isochrone maps takes the guesswork out of finding properties to view, and encourages customers to book a viewing appointment for houses and apartments that match their needs.

Businesses of all kinds can use isochrones to show customers the travel time from their location to a specific store location . Use travel time maps to create an up-to-date store finder that helps customers find stores near their home, or look at which stores they’ll be able to reach on their next holiday or business trip.

Businesses can use isochrones to expand their company , too. Use isochrone maps to scout out potential new locations, and get a feel for how reachable those locations will be for your target demographic and staff members.

You can combine isochrones with demographic data to better understand potential new areas. For example, find out if your potential clients live or work nearby and how easy it will be for them to reach you within a decent time frame.

Logistics and Delivery

Businesses use travel time maps to find the best locations for their warehouses and logistic centers . These tools focus on places where the travel times from different customers are minimized, thereby reducing costs and handling your sales better.

For example, the size of the isochrone indicates how easily you can reach a place. Moreover, the overlapping of the isochrones shows well-covered areas , while the holes signify where service is problematic.

Commute Planning

Individuals can use isochrones to plan commuting times for themselves or their families. Optimizing commute times to work or study locations makes for less time spent commuting, and an easier time coordinating with the rest of the family.

Educational institutions and employers can also use isochrones to help students or employees plan their commutes and find the most efficient routes. Research shows that every minute of commute time lowers job satisfaction and increases stress, so anything you can do to help students and employees find the best route will help.

Looking for a new office location? Use isochrones to see how good or bad the public transport connections are , and see which amenities such as shops or healthcare locations are in easy reach.

Classifieds and Directories

Help classified readers narrow their search to find what matters to them. With isochrones, they can search for jobs or items for sale within a specific distance of their home . No more finding the ideal job or item for purchase, only to find it’s in a hard-to-reach location or simply too far away.

Narrowing results by travel distance means more relevant and accurate results, and more satisfied customers.

Travel time maps have a wide range of applications across industries and even for personal use. Show your visitors the information they need, and they're more likely to stay on your website, or making a booking of enquiry.

Wondering how best to use isochrones in your business? Eager to get started? Try isochrones for free in our playground, or get in touch to discuss your specific needs.

Ready to get started?

Learn more about isochrone maps.

Travel time map

Smappen is a map that tells you where you can travel to in a given amount of time or by covering a certain distance.

Depending on the mode of transport you pick, smappen looks at lots of criteria (speed limit on each type of road (city, countryside, highway, etc.), and draws the area that you can reach when travelling the specified distance or time.

These travel-time areas are also called isochrones or catchment areas.

Based on travel times

A driving-radius map tool.

Use smappen to get the right answers.

To choose the best location for your business

smappen provides you with population data on your areas, so that you know which is the best location for your business.

To optimize your logistics (delivery, pricing, technicians, etc.)

Save time and money by providing the best-optimized areas for your deliveries or technicians.

To go and visit friends

Just moved to a new city? Friends all over the country? Find where you can get to in a given travel time.

To target your marketing campaigns

Easily extract zip codes from your areas, for the best-targeted campaigns.

To find your next home or job

Want to move, but don’t want to be too far away from your place of work? smappen shows you the ideal geographic area where you should house-hunt, with a variety of home-to-workplace travel times.

Ready to get started with smappen?

The complete guide about travel time maps

Travel time is an essential element that shapes our daily lives, influencing decisions ranging from our commutes to work, to healthcare accessibility, leisure activities, and urban planning. The ability to understand, calculate, and visualize travel time is a game-changer in modern navigation and decision-making.

Behind the scenes of this crucial concept lies technology and data, working together to create what we call “travel time maps.” These maps are not just colorful representations but tools that empower us to make informed choices about where we go, how we get there, and how long it will take.

In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a journey to explore the significance of travel time and travel time maps in our fast-paced world. We will delve into the technology that underpins their creation and see how data makes travel time mapping possible. Throughout this exploration, we’ll discover the practical applications of travel time maps and discuss strategies to optimize travel time for a more efficient and enjoyable life. So, let’s navigate the world of travel time and its mapping, enhancing the way we experience the world around us.

Understanding travel time

Travel time is more than just a measure of how long it takes to get from point A to point B. It’s a fundamental concept that profoundly affects our daily routines and decisions. In this section, we will unravel the core concept of travel time and its multifaceted impact on our lives.

At its heart, travel time encapsulates the minutes, hours, and sometimes even seconds that stand between us and our destinations. It governs our commutes to work, school runs, and even the time it takes to enjoy a day out with friends. Understanding travel time is the key to unlocking a more efficient and enjoyable life.

As we delve deeper, we will explore the multitude of factors that influence travel time. Weather, with its unpredictable whims, can either expedite or delay our journeys. Traffic congestion in urban jungles can turn a quick trip into a frustrating ordeal, while our choice of transportation mode can be the difference between a leisurely stroll and a hectic rush.

But what ties all these factors together into a coherent and user-friendly concept? The answer lies in the world of “travel time maps.” These visual representations take complex data on weather, traffic, and transportation modes, and present it in a way that’s easy to comprehend. In the next section, we will unravel the technology and data that make the creation of these maps possible.

Creating travel time maps

Travel time maps are the result of meticulous data integration and advanced GIS technology. These maps require access to a wide array of data sources, including real-time traffic information, location data, and comprehensive transportation networks. This data forms the foundation upon which travel time maps are built.

One of the pivotal elements in this process is GIS technology, such as the one offered by Smappen. Smappen, as an innovative geomarketing solution, plays a significant role in creating travel time maps. It leverages GIS technology to process vast datasets and produce visually intuitive maps that help individuals and businesses make informed decisions.

Creating a travel time map with Smappen can provide valuable insights for location-based decision-making. Below is a step-by-step tutorial on how to create a travel time map for free using Smappen:

• Go to  smappen.com/app/
• Open the area creation panel on the top left
• Write your starting address
• Select the time
• Choose the means of transport
• Click on “Compute” button

Your first travel time area is created! For more detailed instructions, you can follow  our tutorials . 

Interpreting travel time maps

Understanding how to read and interpret a travel time map is vital in unlocking the wealth of information it offers to individuals, businesses, and decision-makers alike. These maps are designed to provide valuable insights into travel time, allowing for informed choices. Here, we’ll delve into the key aspects of interpreting travel time maps while incorporating relevant SEO keywords.

Color-Coding and Legends: A fundamental element of any travel time map is the color-coding scheme, where different areas are shaded in various colors to represent varying travel times. The intuitive use of colors serves as a visual guide, with darker hues typically signifying longer travel times and lighter shades indicating shorter journeys. Understanding these color patterns is crucial for quick and accurate interpretation of the map, especially when time is of the essence. Additionally, legends are often provided to clarify the specific time intervals associated with different colors, making it easier to gauge travel durations.

Real-World Examples and Decision-Making: The true power of travel time maps becomes evident when we witness them in action in real-world scenarios. These maps are not just abstract data representations; they play a practical role in guiding decisions. For instance, consider a business owner looking to determine the ideal location for a new store. By consulting a travel time map, they can pinpoint areas with shorter travel times to their target demographic, leading to better strategic choices. Similarly, urban planners utilize travel time maps to identify areas with limited transportation accessibility, paving the way for more efficient infrastructure development. These practical examples showcase the indispensable role travel time maps play in enhancing decision-making processes.

User-Friendly Digital Platforms: In the digital age, travel time maps have become more accessible and user-friendly than ever. Many platforms, such as Smappen, offer intuitive interfaces that make map interpretation a breeze. These digital tools allow users to zoom in, pan, and interact with the map, exploring different regions effortlessly. Whether you’re planning your daily commute or seeking the ideal location for a business expansion, the user-friendly nature of digital travel time maps streamlines the process. With a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into travel times, empowering you to make more informed decisions in an ever-changing world.

By grasping the principles of color-coding, legends, and practical applications, you’ll be well-prepared to harness the potential of travel time maps in your daily life or business endeavors. Understanding how to interpret these maps effectively opens the door to better planning, improved decision-making, and optimized efficiency.

Applications and importance

Broad Applications Across Sectors: Travel time maps find relevance in a plethora of sectors, serving as a fundamental resource for informed decision-making. In the realm of transportation, they aid in optimizing routes and schedules for public transit systems, reducing commuter travel time and enhancing the overall transit experience. In healthcare, travel time maps guide medical facilities in identifying areas with limited accessibility, ensuring that critical services are within reach for all members of the community. Furthermore, urban planners employ travel time maps to develop efficient infrastructure and to design cities that are more accessible to all. These maps, enriched with data, play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents and commuters alike.

Leveraging Travel Time Maps for Decision-Making: Businesses and individuals stand to gain significant advantages by leveraging travel time maps in their decision-making processes. For businesses, the strategic location of a store, warehouse, or distribution center can be a game-changer in terms of customer reach and operational efficiency. Travel time maps provide valuable insights into the ideal location for maximum accessibility. Individual commuters and travelers, too, can benefit from these maps by planning their daily journeys more efficiently, avoiding congestion, and optimizing their schedules.

Optimizing Efficiency and Accessibility: The value of travel time maps lies in their ability to optimize efficiency and accessibility in everyday life. For businesses, this means maximizing the reach of their services while minimizing operational costs. For individuals, it translates to reduced stress, more time for leisure and productivity, and a higher quality of life. With these maps in hand, individuals can make choices that take into account the time it takes to reach their destinations, ultimately improving the balance between their personal and professional lives.

Optimizing travel time with maps

Efficiently managing your travel time is not just about reaching your destination; it’s about transforming your daily journeys into smoother and more productive experiences. In this section, we will share practical strategies and tips for using travel time maps to your advantage, all while incorporating relevant SEO keywords for enhanced visibility.

Practical Strategies for Efficiency:

Plan Ahead: The cornerstone of optimizing your travel time begins with planning. Use travel time maps to foresee potential bottlenecks, traffic congestion, or delays in your route. By being proactive and considering these factors, you can plan your trips at times that minimize disruptions.

Combine Trips: If you have multiple errands or destinations, strategically combine them to minimize travel time. Travel time maps can help you identify areas where you can complete multiple tasks within a single journey, optimizing your schedule and reducing the overall time spent traveling.

Google vs. Apple Maps: Comparisons and tricks you need to try

A s a kid, on vacations I remember looking into the front seat to see my mom with a large map and print-out directions. I loved being able to pretend to use the map myself, looking at the small freeways or streets and imagining driving there.

Once I got older and learned how to drive, there wasn’t a need for a physical hand-held map. It was hard not to pick a phone app over a physical map for directions when everything was given step by step in the moment of driving.

While there are a multitude of map apps, two of the most popular are Google and Apple. These apps regularly update to help users get to where they need to go. If choosing to follow the updates and features, you might find there are fun tricks to up the usability and decrease travel confusion.

The Points Guy , a website created by travelers for travelers, compiled a list of recent Apple Maps updates.

Major city navigation

Apple’s map enhancements make navigating major cities like Paris, Houston, Dallas and New York City easier. With features such as detailed 3D landmarks, road markings and public transit routes, getting around is easier whether you’re walking or driving.

Currently available in 24 cities, this enhanced experience offers a “windshield view” when driving, making exits and on-ramps easier to navigate.

Additionally, Apple provides over 2,000 curated city guides from publishers like AllTrails and Lonely Planet, allowing you to explore local favorites. You can even create your own guides to share with visiting family and friends, highlighting the best of your hometown.

Offline maps

Apple Maps’ new offline maps feature is a game-changer for travelers, especially those venturing into areas with poor internet connectivity. Whether you’re camping in remote wilderness or avoiding data charges abroad, this feature ensures access to driving, walking, transit and cycling directions even with spotty internet.

To use offline maps, download the map of your destination while connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data. Simply search in Apple Maps and select the option to download the offline map. You can customize the map’s size and storage space.

Apple Maps may prompt you to download an offline map based on upcoming trips or service availability predictions.

Offline maps include turn-by-turn navigation, detailed trail maps for parks, Apple Watch sync for walking directions, arrival estimates, public transit schedules and nearby points of interest. While offline, information remains accurate at the time of download. To update, connect to Wi-Fi or cellular data.

Try it out by downloading a map for your local area or next travel destination.

Real-time electric vehicle charging availability

With the increasing availability of electric vehicles in dealerships and rental services, having precise information about EV charging stations is crucial.

Apple Maps now offers real-time updates on EV charging station availability, allowing users to filter by charging network, plug type, operating hours and other criteria. Users can also set their preferred charging network for convenience.

This feature proves invaluable, particularly for electric vehicle drivers navigating unfamiliar areas, providing reassurance and preventing last-minute charging crises.

Trail information

In iOS 17, trail information is now more comprehensive than ever before. Through Apple Maps, users can explore thousands of trails located in local, state and national parks across the United States. When you come across a hiking trail or campground of interest, you’ll find details such as trail length, photos, parking availability and the park’s information center contact number.

For Apple Watch users, watchOS 10 updates introduce user-friendly topographic maps featuring contour lines, hill shading, elevation markers and points of interest. These enhancements facilitate outdoor adventures and seamlessly integrate with offline maps on your iPhone when downloaded in advance and kept accessible during your visit.

Google Maps

On the other hand, The Washington Post shares three tips to get the most from Google Maps.

Download maps for areas with unreliable phone service

Similar to Apple Maps, if you’re traveling outside the United States and concerned about phone data charges, or if you frequently visit areas with unreliable mobile phone service, consider downloading a map.

A downloaded map functions perfectly even without cell reception.

To download a portion of a map in Google Maps:

• Choose the area you wish to save.
• Click on your profile picture or initials located in the upper-right corner of the screen.
• Select “Offline maps” and then “Select your own map.” Adjust the zoom until you’ve highlighted the desired area for saving.
• Tap on “Download.” Your selected map section is now accessible even without an internet connection.

Keep track of your favorite spots using ‘lists’

Bookmark spots you like to go to or need for an emergency, like a shop, restaurant, parking or hospitals.

To bookmark a restaurant on Google Maps:

• Search for the restaurant by name. Once its details appear, check the options located to the right of “Directions.”
• Select the “Save” option and click on “New list” at the top of the subsequent screen. Name it something like “Best Burgers.”
• Tap “Create” in the upper-right corner.
• You have the option to keep your list private or select “Shared” and invite friends and family to contribute their favorite burger spots.
• To access your lists and individual places within a list, navigate to the main screen of Google Maps and tap “Saved” on the bottom row of the app.

After saving places in a list, you can tap on them to “Add a note about this place.”

In addition to lists, Google Maps offers options to save places under similar categories like “Want to go” or “Starred places.” This variety might seem overwhelming, so you can choose to use just one or utilize all three features differently.

Google has stated that it is continuously enhancing the Google Maps experience to facilitate the discovery of helpful information.

Use visual pointers for walking directions

Imagine you’re just a half-mile away from a restaurant listed in your “Best Burgers” compilation, but you’re uncertain about the walking route.

You have the option to click “Directions” in Google Maps for step-by-step instructions — or you can enhance those instructions significantly.

Simply tap “live” at the bottom right of the Google Maps screen and point your phone towards your surroundings. Note: Your phone might prompt you for permission to activate the camera.

Google overlays virtual arrows onto your screen, guiding you to your next left turn. It’s reminiscent of the Pokémon Go game, but tailored for pedestrian directions.

Exercise caution when using this feature. It’s important not to endanger yourself or others by constantly holding your phone in front of your face.

Apple Maps vs. Google Maps, which is better?

While the app you use might depend on your phone brand, the debate about which app is better is ongoing. According to Tom’s Guide , the answer might be Google Maps. However, apps are updating constantly so performance levels may vary.

Winners in selected categories:

• Availability on devices: Google Maps, available on almost every device and brand.
• Interface: Apple Maps, everything is in one place.
• Map design: Apple Maps, less distraction.
• Navigation: Google Maps, for accuracy and prioritizing safety and fuel consumption.
• Traffic data: Google Maps, adjusting travel time and “Commute” feature.
• Public transportation: Google Maps, notes where crowds are.
• Discovery: Google Maps as Google itself has more information available.
• Hands-free control: Tie, both work great.
• Street view: Google Maps, more locations documented for now.
• Privacy: Apple Maps, for ensuring anonymity.

Google Maps wins seven to four.

On a personal note, my brother, a firefighter and EMT in both Virginia and Utah, says his teams use Google Maps for speed.

Are there other map apps?

There are many map apps available that can be downloaded on phones, no matter the brand.

According to data research published in Statista, Google Maps is the most downloaded map and navigation app in the U.S. with over 21 million downloads, not including the number of apps pre-installed on Android smartphones.

Waze , a community-based traffic and navigation app, was found to be downloaded 9.89 million times, coming in second, the research found. Waze is owned by Google.

Citymapper , a public transit app, was the third most downloaded app with almost 900,000 downloads, per the data research .

No matter which app you choose to use, remember to stay updated on features to get the most out of your traveling experience.

12 Google Maps Secrets All Travelers Should Know

If you’re only opening google maps for driving directions, you’re not leveraging the app’s full potential. here are 12 other ways travelers can use it to improve their trips, in advance and on the fly..

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As a travel editor, I use Google Maps daily. These are some of the most useful features for trip planning I’ve found.

Photo by Mojahid Mottakin/Shutterstock

I’m a nerd for maps. As a kid, they inspired me to want to travel, and as an adult they’re my comfort reading. My colleagues at Afar even let me make a podcast episode about them . But of all the maps I love (Middle-earth included), the one I spend the most time with these days is Google Maps. I’m betting most of you can say the same thing. I’m on that app every single day. I use it for work (for the research I need to do in my job here as an editor and writer), I use it for fun (I can spend hours armchair exploring remote islands in the middle of oceans), and I use it, most invaluably, for trip planning. If you’re only using Google Maps for directions, you’re missing out. Here are a dozen ways I use Google Maps for smarter travel.

Collaborate an itinerary with friends

I make Google Maps lists of everything: I have one for vegetarian restaurants, another for ice cream shops—I even have one that’s a cocktails and cookies trail. (I created that last one with my cousin when we celebrated her 21st birthday.) More often, I use lists as a trip-planning tool. As I’m researching things to do in whatever destination I’m headed to (recently Argentina, Nairobi, and Manchester ), I create a list, add places of interest (museums, restaurants, shops, libraries, etc.) and share it with my travel crew so that they can weigh in on my picks and add their recommendations. While that’s useful, it’s only 101.

In the past year, lists have leveled up: Now, for each place listing, your friends can react with an emoji (heart, smile, fire, thumbs down, or flying money) and add their tips and suggestions into a comments field (e.g., “I read that dulce de leche is the flavor to get!” or “Let’s go here after our street-art tour on Monday.”). I especially like that I can customize the order of the items on the list; for example, I could make them match the path of cookies I plan to follow, or I could arrange our collective Argentina picks chronologically so that the list doubles as our itinerary. A fun bonus is that you can assign any emoji to the whole list so that all of the places show up in map view with that themed icon—say, the Argentina flag or an ice cream cone.

Walk like you know where you’re going with navigation

The Glanceable Directions feature puts a minimap on your lock screen.

Photo by Billie Cohen

Turn-by-turn navigation isn’t just for drivers. Google Maps offers it for walkers and bikers too. Once you type in your destination, select “directions,” then “walking,” then “start navigation,” and the app will speak out loud to guide you, the same as if you were in a car. When I’m in a new city, I use this with one earbud in so I don’t have to keep looking at my phone (because I will inevitably trip and fall over).

If you prefer to look at your phone, you can follow your route in both 2D (that little blue arrow moving on the map) or in 3D Live View. In this mode, you point your camera at the real world to get the app situated and then follow arrows and directions overlaid on the IRL view of the streets that you see through your phone. (Another settings option allows you to tilt your phone to enter Live View rather than tap.) Even more helpful, the recently released Glanceable Directions feature shows a minimap and navigation on your lock screen, so you don’t have to open the app and turn on comprehensive navigation mode to get the benefits (toggle this feature on in settings). Conveniently, it’ll automatically reroute if you take a different path.

Use augmented-reality Lens to find what’s nearby: shops, restaurants, ATMs, and more

When in the Lens function, Google Maps puts street names and building information on the view around you.

In addition to navigating with augmented-reality Live View, you can also use an augmented-reality (AR) function called Lens in Maps to see what’s around you, including restaurants, public transportation stops, and landmarks. When in Maps, tap the little camera icon in the search bar, then point your phone at the street, and you’ll start to see icons on the buildings. Note that this feature works only for select locations, but new cities are consistently rolling out. In the meantime, all of this information is still easily available in the app: Right under the search bar, you’ll see popular search categories, including gas, restaurants, hotels, and groceries—and be sure to scroll all the way over to the “More” button. Tap that to see a couple dozen additional, and very specific, categories, including ATMs, libraries, live music, hospitals, pharmacies, and even EV charging stations.

Plan your EV charging route

Speaking of EV charging stations, Maps has expanded the info it provides on electricity pumps. To find them while you’re on an EV road trip , type or speak “charging stations” into the search field or tap the “More” category button directly under the search bar. You’ll immediately see red pins with a little lightning bolt inside them populate the map. In the information card below, the app will tell you which kind of chargers a station has (fast, medium, slow), how many are available, and whether they’re compatible with your car.

Check what’s open right now

When I was in Manchester last year, my friends and I went to a concert that let out late, and instead of heading directly to bed, we wanted to go out for a drink and a bite to eat. That’s when I pulled out Maps to check what places were still open around us. In the app, look for “open now”—it’s one of the options right under the search bar.

Use photos to get a sense of a place before you go

Nearly every listing in Google Maps has photos now, culled from public reviews and the establishments’ owners. Admittedly, this isn’t so much of a secret—but it is a secret weapon. You can use those photos to evaluate hotels, to check if a coffee shop is comfortable for laptop working, to see if a restaurant is likely to fit your big group or your mood, and to view images of menus. A recent AI-powered update uses those photos to give more travel inspiration. Try typing something like “cherry blossoms,” “public art,” or “swimming holes” into the search bar, and the results will include a carousel of photos and videos culled from public uploads, under the headline “Discover through photos.”

See the future, and plan for it

Immersive View uses AI to compile video clips of certain sites, like the Brooklyn Bridge, and show what they’ll look like a few days into the future.

Google Maps’ Immersive View is photos on steroids. Well, on AI. For more than 500 landmarks around the world (including the London Eye, the Empire State Building, and Tokyo Tower), the search results include what looks like a video labeled “Immersive view.” What you’re seeing is actually a ton of photos that the app stitched together to create not just an image but a whole knowledge roundup of a particular destination. Want to see what traffic will be like on the Brooklyn Bridge tomorrow morning? Want to see the view from the Eiffel Tower as the sun sets tonight? You can do it now, through Immersive View. A small icon in the bottom right corner shows the weather and a clock—tap it to change the time of day, up to four or five days into the future, and the view will change too: the number of cars on the bridge, the clouds over Paris.

Share your real-time location to stay safe

When I am traveling solo , I always keep my location services turned on for safety (and also to ensure that my 7,000 photos of street art, grocery-store finds, and random architectural details are geotagged for later reference). But even if I’m traveling with friends or family, I use real-time location sharing when I head off on my own so that people know where I am. This is especially helpful if I’m running late, because they can see my arrival time and use that to make important decisions, like whether to order appetizers without me. On the map, you can tap your blue dot to see sharing options or go to your account icon in Maps and open location sharing to choose who and what you want to share. Bonus hint: Tapping the blue dot is also how you get to the option to save your parking location.

Download an offline map

If you’re concerned about eating up mobile data—or if you’re going to be in a location where you won’t have good internet service, Google Maps has you covered. Tap your circular account icon at the top right of the app and go to Offline Maps to select the region you want to download; it will work the same as the live version. Whenever I travel, I download a big swath of the area I’m going to, even if I think I’ll have plenty of internet access. You never know when you’ll be in a dead spot.

Use overlays to get more information out of your map

Maps are like ogres and onions—they have layers. To find those layers, go into the app on your phone or desktop and click the icon that looks like a stack of tiny squares. You may already know that Maps can show you a satellite view layer, a terrain view layer, and the default cartoonish view layer. (The local weather forecast is always available too—look for the small icon on the left side of the screen just under the search bar.) But did you know that it can also overlay public transit routes, traffic statuses, bike paths, wildfires, and air quality? The public transit overlay is one of my favorites, whether I’m traveling or at home in NYC—the subway lines are even correctly color-coded.

Discover the Easter eggs

You’ve seen Google Maps’ little orange Pegman, right? He’s the icon that lives at the bottom right of the screen in the desktop app. Drag him into the map and you’ll see a street view of almost any location. But in some spots around the world, he hides an Easter egg. Navigate to Loch Ness in Scotland, and when you pick him up, he’s wearing a Nessie costume. At Area 51, he turns into a UFO. And in the Galapagos Islands, he has a mermaid tail. Can you find any others?

Stay tuned for more AI-powered features in the future

Google is working on bringing generative AI into its maps , and one project that’s underway is a feature that will allow users to ask questions like “What are rainy-day activities I can do with kids?” When the feature is available (expected later this year), the map will show indoor suggestions such as bowling alleys and movie theaters. Google’s community of more than 300 million “local guides,” as they call their contributors, are working to test this now, and I’m already lining up my questions: Hey Google, what are some places that cartography nerds would like?

Where can you go by train in 8h?

This map shows you how far you can travel from each station in Europe in less than 8 hours.

Hover your mouse on the map to see the isochrones from that city, search for a station, or click on one of the examples below.

This map is based on estimated travel times, using data from the Deutsche Bahn through Direkt Bahn Guru . Actual timetables may vary.

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Your Eurail travel map

Start planning your Eurail adventure here. You can see the average train travel times between all the big European cities in 33 countries on the train map below. 

Train routes through 33 countries

The map below shows the bigger cities in Europe, to which cities they are connected and how long it takes to travel between them. It's an interactive map, so start clicking around and planning your trip!

Click on the train icons to see the cities of each country, and click on the routes (the lines in between 2 train icons) to see travel times.  The green lines represent trains; the blue lines are ferries.

Please note that routes may change throughout the year. This map doesn’t show any (temporary) disruptions on the rail network; find more information on disruptions here . 

Don't know where to start? Use our Trip Planner to find the best Eurail Pass for you!

Traveling with a eurail pass.

With a Eurail Pass you can travel in all countries on the Europe rail map above, now including Great Britain. Please note that most high-speed trains and all night trains need an advance reservation . These are not included in your Eurail Pass. We can help you book your seat reservations for 95% of the trains in Europe.

Travel times for 10 most popular routes

Check out the travel times between Europe's most popular cities. If you'd like to know more about a specific route, just visit our Popular Routes section .

Feel free to also play around with the Europe travel map above to see where else you could go with your Eurail Pass!

European itineraries

The Eurail railway map is a great resource for planning the perfect itinerary. Check out some examples of spectacular  European itineraries  you can experience with a Eurail Pass.

Follow one or more of our itineraries, or use parts of them to create your own. Planning your trip is half the fun, and with these itineraries, you get to see the very best of Europe!

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Artificially Intelligent Help for Planning Your Summer Vacation

Travel-focused A.I. bots and more eco-friendly transportation options in online maps and search tools can help you quickly organize your seasonal getaway.

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By J. D. Biersdorfer

J.D. Biersdorfer has been using smartphone apps for travel since the summer of 2007.

The summer travel season starts in just a few weeks, but if you are looking for software that goes beyond simply booking flights and hotels, you’re in luck. Search engines enhanced by artificial intelligence can help with your research and outline full itineraries. Certain older apps have recently been updated to suggest more eco-friendly travel options. And keeping it all organized on your phone is easier than ever. Here’s an overview.

Using an A.I. Travel Agent

General-purpose A.I.-powered search tools and chatbots like Google’s Gemini spin up a list of things to do on your vacation when asked, but A.I. bots that are fine-tuned for travel queries are often more comprehensive. These bots scout destinations, plan itineraries, search for accommodations and flights, map out road trips and do more — grabbing a lot of information at once and saving you all that time-consuming web trawling.

Give the software your specifics — like destination, length of stay, interests — and see what it suggests. Many A.I. helpers are free to use if you sign up for an account, but some charge a subscription fee for premium services; your app store has specifics.

Layla , formerly Roam Around, is one of the free vacation-oriented A.I. helpers you can find online, and it has teamed up with travel sites that include Skyscanner , Get Your Guide and Booking.com . If you prefer land-based car and camper journeys, Roadtrippers (free trial; $60 year) includes real-time traffic and air-quality information along with route planning. And old stalwarts like Tripadvisor and Expedia are now using A.I.-generated vacation builders.

But as others have also noted, while A.I. travel planners have much potential, many are still works in progress and usually display disclaimers admitting so.

A.I. bots have been known to offer generic advice like “enjoy lunch at a local restaurant,” suggest activities that are out of season or too far apart, repeatedly recommend the same restaurant, consistently steer you to their advertisers or point you to locations that have closed. If you ask different bots the same question, you may get nearly identical suggestions, all scraped from the same tourism websites.

Still, A.I. travel apps are improving as they learn, and can be useful for the trip research and coordination phase. Just be sure to double-check the bot’s work before you commit to a plan.

Finding Earth-Friendly Options

There’s no shortage of apps for booking transportation to your destination. But if you want to keep the environment in mind, recent updates to Google’s Maps and Search apps now suggest routes and methods that lower your personal impact on the planet.

Google for the past few years has been pointing people to flights with lower carbon emissions , alternative train routes , fuel-efficient driving directions and eco-friendly hotels . It is now expanding its walking, biking and public transit suggestions alongside car routes in several major cities and adding more electric-vehicle charging information. Google Flights shows jet emissions estimates . Google Search has a “consider taking the train” nudge with rail routes and prices under certain flight results.

Apple’s Maps app also shows mass transit , walking and cycling options for getting around town, along with charge-friendly routes for electric vehicles . However, the default apps on your phone are not the only aids. Third-party software for directions and sustainable travel abound.

For example, Citymapper, which covers most major cities in the United States, Europe and Asia, includes environmental impact statistics on some trips. Its directions often include accessibility options that avoid stairways , along with routes for the fastest, cheapest or easiest way to get where you’re going; Citymapper is free with in-app purchases.

Other apps available for those seeking environmentally minded vacations include Bikemap for community-sourced cycling routes around the world, HappyCow for vegan and vegetarian travelers and Tap Hydration and Water Stations to locate sources for refilling reusable water bottles.

Keeping Organized

If you don’t already have software for consolidating your trip information, your phone’s default apps can help. Electronic boarding passes, hotel reservations and advance tickets can be quickly added to the digital wallet on your phone; a pragmatic paper backup tucked in your bag is insurance. Google and Apple offer to automatically add reservations and events from email and messages to your calendar .

Free services like TripIt (and its phone apps ), TripCase (also with Android or iOS apps) and Wanderlog automatically put all your travel information in one place, typically by scanning the information in your confirmation emails. TripIt Pro , a $50-a-year subscription version, adds more features like seat, fare and airline-points trackers, as well as international travel tools and regional risk alerts like those for extreme weather that can affect airline schedules and public safety .

A.I. bots and travel apps will continue to evolve and, hopefully, make vacation planning even easier in the future. Just don’t forget to occasionally put the phone down and enjoy your time off once you get there.

J.D. Biersdorfer has been writing about consumer technology for The Times since 1998. She also creates the weekly interactive literary quiz for the Book Review and occasionally contributes reviews. More about J. D. Biersdorfer

Explore Our Coverage of Artificial Intelligence

News  and Analysis

As experts warn that A.I.-generated images, audio and video could influence the 2024 elections, OpenAI is releasing a tool designed to detect content created by DALL-E , its popular image generator.

American and Chinese diplomats plan to meet in Geneva to begin what amounts to the first, tentative arms control talks  over the use of A.I.

Wayve, a London maker of A.I. systems for autonomous vehicles, said that it had raised $1 billion , an illustration of investor optimism about A.I.’s ability to reshape industries.

The Age of A.I.

A new category of apps promises to relieve parents of drudgery, with an assist from A.I.  But a family’s grunt work is more human, and valuable, than it seems.

Despite Mark Zuckerberg’s hope for Meta’s A.I. assistant to be the smartest , it struggles with facts, numbers and web search.

Much as ChatGPT generates poetry, a new A.I. system devises blueprints for microscopic mechanisms  that can edit your DNA.

Which A.I. system writes the best computer code or generates the most realistic image? Right now, there’s no easy way to answer those questions, our technology columnist writes .

Travel Time Calculator

Quick links, travel duration calculator.

Travelmath provides an online travel time calculator to help you figure out flight and driving times. You can compare the results to see the effect on the total duration of your trip. Usually, the flight time will be shorter, but if the destination is close, the driving time can still be reasonable.

Another popular tool is the time difference calculator, which can be used to check the time zone change anywhere in the world. This is especially useful if you're making international calls, since you can find the best time to schedule your phone call.

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Michigan power outage map: How to check your status after latest round of storms

Here in Michigan, from Detroit to the Upper Peninsula, unpredictable weather happens.

Multiple tornadoes swept through the west side of the state Tuesday, touching down in Kalamazoo and Calhoun Counties.

Sometimes, such weather can lead to widespread power outages.

Depending on the electrical service you have, you can check the latest status of your power outage, how widespread the outage is, an estimated restoration time and more. Most Michigan residents have Consumers Energy or DTE Energy, but some regions in Michigan use other services; many of those are also listed below.

Here are the services offered in Michigan - and links for each power outage map.

DTE power outage map

Use DTE Energy's power outage map here . DTE reminds folks to "please be safe and remember to stay at least 25 feet from any downed power lines — assume they are live and dangerous." Report any outage or downed line here .

Consumers Energy power outage map

Use Consumers Energy's power outage map here . You can report downed power lines by calling 800-477-5050.

Indiana Michigan Power outage map

Use Indiana Michigan Power's power outage map here . A small number of southwest Michigan residents, near the Indiana border, use this service. For help, call 800-311-4634.

Great Lakes Power outage map

Use Great Lakes Power's power outage map here . To report an outage, call 888-485-2537.

Midwest Energy Cooperative power outage map

Use Midwest Energy Cooperative's power outage map here . A small number of southwest Michigan residents, including near Kalamazoo, use this service. For help, call 800-492-5989.

Lansing Board of Water and Light power outage map

Use Lansing Board of Water and Light's power outage map here . A small number of customers in the Lansing area use this service. To report an outage, call 877-295-5001 or go to its website .

Wisconsin Electric Power Company power outage map

Use Wisconsin Electric Power Company's outage map here . Several customers in Michigan's Upper Peninsula use the service. Report power outages and downed wires by calling 800-662-4797.

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Cooperative power outage map

Use Presque Isle Electric & Gas Cooperative's outage map here . Several customers in the northeast Lower Peninsula use the service. Report power outages and downed wires by calling 800-423-6634 or 989-733-8515.

Is your service not listed here?

Use poweroutage.us to see other Michigan services and whether there are updates in your area.

Three surfers on a dream trip to Mexico were brutally killed. Here’s what we know

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A trio of tourists on a surfing trip in Mexico were living an idyllic life. They were posting photos of themselves on the beach, on rooftops, drinking beer, listening to music as they explored the country’s scenic coastline.

Then, they disappeared.

Here’s what we know about what happened:

Who were they?

The men who were killed were Australian brothers Callum Robinson, 33, his brother Jake, 30 , and their American friend Jack Carter Rhoad, 30.

Callum was a high-level lacrosse player. He played Division III college lacrosse at Stevenson University in Maryland.

World & Nation

Bodies found in Baja California during search for missing tourists, Mexican officials say

Mexican officials say three bodies are found in the Baja California area where two Australian brothers and their American friend went missing while on a surf trip.

May 4, 2024

“He lived an extraordinary life, but what is most impressive about Callum is what a loyal friend he was. Once you were his friend, you were friends for life,” said Stevenson University lacrosse team coach Paul Cantabene.

“My heart is shattered into a million pieces,” wrote Callum Robinson’s girlfriend, Emily Horwath, in an Instagram post.

His brother Jake was a doctor, and Jack Carter Rhoad founded an online apparel company in San Diego called Loma Apparel. He also worked for a consulting company called ITCO Solutions.

Rhoad had recently proposed to his girlfriend, and his final Facebook post, from July 2023, showed pictures of the proposal.

What were they doing in Mexico?

The three men were on a surfing trip in Baja California and were expected to check into an Airbnb in Rosarito on April 27 but never showed up, according to Debra Robinson, Callum and Jake’s mother.

The three arrived in Mexico on April 26 for their idyllic beachside trip. Callum Robinson posted photos of the trio drinking beer on a rooftop, as well as pictures of the men at the beach and in a rooftop Jacuzzi.

3 bodies in Mexican well identified as Australian and American surfers killed for tires

Mexican authorities say three suspects killed two Australians and an American on a surfing trip in Baja California to steal tires from their truck.

May 5, 2024

Their disappearance triggered a manhunt and investigation by local Mexican police, the FBI and the Mexican marines.

What happened?

Mexican authorities have determined that the three men were killed by thieves who were looking to steal their white pickup truck in order to sell its tires.

The Chevrolet truck was posted in the first picture Callum Robinson shared when the men arrived in Baja California on April 26. It had a California license plate.

The bodies of the victims were found about 4 miles from where they were killed, just south of the city of Ensenada. A tent the men were staying in, as well as their burned-out truck, was found nearby.

María Elena Andrade Ramírez, chief state prosecutor of the state of Baja California, said investigators discovered their bodies 50 feet deep in a remote well.

Inside the well was a fourth cadaver as well, she said.

Three Mexicans are being held in connection with the case, the prosecutor said.

This gentrifying Mexico City neighborhood has a Soho House — and a migrant encampment

An encampment in the Juarez neighborhood of Mexico City shows how migration is impacting countries south of the U.S. border.

May 7, 2024

What does it mean for tourists?

The killings have set off pitched discussions over safety as well as the prioritization of solving the homicides of other tourists killed in Mexico.

On the Talk Baja Facebook group, concerned surfers and potential visitors to the Northern Mexico state have discussed whether they should still visit the area.

The U.S. State Department said in its 2023 report that Americans should “reconsider” travel to Baja California due to kidnapping and crime. The “reconsider” category is the second-worst category, after the department’s “do not travel to” recommendation.

More to Read

Testimony details alleged motives in Mexico surfer slayings: ‘Money, devices and the pickup’

May 9, 2024

Three friends drove from California to Mexico for a surfing trip. Then they disappeared

May 3, 2024

U.S. couple likely thrown overboard by boat hijackers are dead, Grenada police say

Feb. 27, 2024

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Noah Goldberg covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. He worked previously in New York City as the Brooklyn courts reporter for the New York Daily News, covering major criminal trials as well as working on enterprise stories. Before that, he was the criminal justice reporter for the Brooklyn Eagle.

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Strong geomagnetic storm reaches Earth, continues through weekend

NOAA space weather forecasters have observed at least seven coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, with impacts expected to arrive on Earth as early as midday Friday, May 10, and persist through Sunday, May 12, 2024. 

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) has issued a Geomagnetic Storm Warning for Friday, May 10. Additional solar eruptions could cause geomagnetic storm conditions to persist through the weekend.

• The First of Several CMEs reached Earth on Friday, May 10 at 12:37 pm EDT.  The CME was very strong and SWPC quickly issued a series of geomagnetic storm warnings. SWPC observed G4 conditions at 1:39 pm EDT (G3 at 1:08 pm EDT).
• This storm is ongoing and SWPC will continue to monitor the situation and provide additional warnings as necessary.

This is an unusual and potentially historic event. Clinton Wallace , Director, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center

CMEs are explosions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s corona. They cause geomagnetic storms when they are directed at Earth. Geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface , potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations. SWPC has notified the operators of these systems so they can take protective action.

Geomagnetic storms can also trigger spectacular displays of aurora on Earth . A severe geomagnetic storm includes the potential for aurora to be seen as far south as Alabama and Northern California.

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