If I told you..
GPS navigation was designed for
the american military to allow them to position things very accurately
anywhere on the globe, mainly to help them find places, blow them
up and then find their way home again. It works wonderfully as
many middle eastern terrorists can now confirm..
It works (see, I knew you'd ask)
by listening to time signals from various satellites spaced around
the globe. By counting the difference in times for the signals
to reach the receiver it can work out where it is in the world
to within around 20 feet (thats less than the width of the road).
By linking this information to
a very accurate roadmap, the unit can show you a map of your position,
and warn you where to go next. It can also show accurate speed,
heading and other fascinating stuff.
Planning your day...
We can use our extensive knowledge
of the area (and hard-fought quality information on restaurants
and cafes) to plan your days route on the computer, adding in
stops for coffee, fuel, sights and lunch. We then download this
route information onto the GPS unit and off you go.
En Route...
The GPS unit we use is the Garmin
Streetpilot III. This is the top of the Garmin range and has a
full colour screen and can even speak the route instructions to
you (when plugged into your intercom or earpiece). It is very
easy to use, giving you a countdown to the next turn so you don't
have to stare at it all the time - not recommended whilst riding..!
If you decide to change your route
during the day, simply press two buttons (we give you instructions
and a map, just in case) and it will work out your route
home. Many of our guests simply ride out for an hour or two and
then use the GPS to get home or to the restaurant.
We give you a full rundown on the
system before you start and we're always on the end of the phone
if you get stuck. If you have brought your own bike or even a
hire car you can still use the GPS units - drop in for a day and
we'll hire you one!
(These are german road names-
french ones are shorter..)
Special Routes
If you have a special place you
want to visit we can set up a route for you - it helps if you
can give us a little notice if you need this during busy times.
Be sure to ask us first - our standard routes cover many places
of interest across the south of France.
