Surviving Travel Without Google

Create a detailed itinerary, utilize alternative apps, and acquire local language books to rescue your journey without Google.

Surviving Travel Without Google

Not every place allows access to Google, particularly in China, where using this sacred search engine is nearly impossible. Even associated services like Google Maps and Google Mail encounter similar challenges. Here are some helpful tips for traveling without the Google lifesaver.

Create a detailed itinerary

In the absence of Google, the best approach is to invest time in researching information online instead of resorting to last-minute searches as usual.

For a smoother journey, the devil is in the details—know your train, your station, and your exit (especially crucial, as different exits at the same station lead to different streets; stepping out the wrong door means wasting time going in the opposite direction).

If you're cautious, jot down these details in a handy notebook. This old-school method proves effective, especially in sticky situations like no network or a dead phone.

Bookmark Essential Websites

Keep crucial websites bookmarked on your phone for offline access. You'll navigate directly to these pages rather than relying on search engines. While there's a limit to how many you can remember, it's a lifesaver in a pinch.

Email Forwarding with Google Mail

A regrettable mistake among travelers in China is forgetting to forward important emails from Google Mail. Accessing this inbox within mainland territory can be challenging. Important emails like flight confirmations, hotel reservations, or train tickets are often stored here, causing headaches for tourists. Don't forget to set up automatic email forwarding from Google Mail to another inbox.

Explore Alternative Apps

Google is a go-to for travelers, offering search, maps, and translation. However, it's wise to be prepared with alternative apps.

For search, try Bing.com. For maps, download city-specific map apps to assist with subway navigation and finding dining options, many of which work offline.

When it comes to translation, several apps can replace Google Translate. Opt for apps that allow translation from images to save time and enhance convenience, especially for ideographic languages like Chinese. Additionally, some apps (like Waygo…) provide 'live' translations by using your camera to focus on the text, holding steady for a moment, and presenting the translation as subtitles. This method is much more convenient than taking a photo and later inputting it into software.

Embrace Paper Maps

While not as advanced as navigation apps, carrying at least one paper map is essential. Many still prefer using this type of map over smartphones for navigation.

Carry a Local Language Guidebook

In dire situations, simplicity often proves effective. Imagine being in a city where nobody speaks English, with no network, let alone Google. You can only rely on yourself. In such times, a language guidebook for travelers, seemingly extinct in the smartphone era, becomes incredibly magical.

If you don't know any local language, you can simply point to phrases in the book to at least let others know what you need. That's why you'll still see many foreign travelers carrying these guidebooks even when surrounded by various other conveniences.

Ask Locals for Directions

In fortunate situations where you find someone who speaks English, seize the opportunity to ask them for information about enjoyable places, dining, and sightseeing. The local's firsthand advice is often much more interesting than information found online, most of which is written by fellow travelers.

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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour