7. Searching the AAA TourBook

Figure 77: Searching the AAA TourBook

Built-in AAA TourBook gives you instant access to AAA approved and rated lodging and restaurants, recommended attractions, discount locations.

I didn't immediately recognize the value of AAA's TourBook data, but after using the 4350 for a few weeks, I've come to love the additional information it provides.

For example, when searching for a restaurant, AAA provides a short review of the restaurant, complete with approximate cost information, parking details, whether they take credit cards, hours of operation, and more. Having this information available makes it much easier to figure out where you want to eat, sleep, or which tourist attraction you want to visit.

To access the AAA TourBook, tap on Main Menu -> Points of Interest -> AAA TourBook

Figure 78: Choosing the AAA TourBook Category

This screen is the AAA TourBook menu. From here you can search the AAA Tourbook by tapping TourBook Destination. Other options available on this screen are:

• Show Your Card & Save - If you're a current AAA member, this option displays special discounts available to AAA members.
• Approved Auto Repairs - Lets you search for AAA authorized repair shops
• AAA Branch Offices - Finds the nearest AAA offices
• Campgrounds - Searches for AAA rated campgrounds

Let's take a closer look at the TourBook guide data. I'll tap on TourBook Destination to search for a AAA rated restaurant.

Figure 79: Choosing A AAA TourBook Category

AAA's TourBook includes five categories to choose from:

• Accommodations
• Restaurants
• Destinations
• Attractions
• Events

I'm searching for a restaurant, so I'll tap Restaurants to continue.

Figure 80: Viewing AAA TourBook Search Results

AAA TourBook search results look similar to regular POI results, but notice the diamond ratings on the right, indicating the food quality rating.

Figure 81: Viewing TourBook Information

AAA provides a considerable amount of additional information. For example, when looking up a restaurant, you'll see a relatively detailed description of the restaurant, estimated cost, the hours of operation, the parking situation, and what (if any) credit cards are accepted.

Magellan doesn't specify how many AAA Points of Interest are included, but I found it quite exhaustive in all the areas I tested.

Navigon recently began including Zagat guide data on some GPS models. While I find Zagat's reviews higher quality than AAA's, AAA provides reviews of many more places than Zagat.

AAA's TourBook data also includes information about hotels/motels, attractions, events, and destinations.

Overall I was pleased with the quality of AAA's information, and found it a significant benefit having the information at my fingertips.

Figure 82: AAA TourBook Details

In addition to extensive restaurant guide data, AAA's TourBook includes detailed information on local attractions. This information can be invaluable when exploring a new place.