I always get lost on the way gigs because I can't remember street names. I used to pull over four or five times to check the street names.

However, a few months back I found this nice little memory trick for remembering up to ten words in order. Its an old one but it means I look at the map at home and remember the streets needed.

Each number has a word associate with it. The words are easy to remember because they rhyme with the number

1 - Bun
2 - Shoe
3 - Tree
4 - Door
5 - Hive
6 - Sticks
7 - Heaven
8 - Gate
9 - Mime
10 - Hen

then, I create a strong visual image in my head for each street name.

So if the first street I need to remember is Limestone Ave, I'll imagine a bun made out of rock. You don't need an exact word match either. For instance, I live on Foveaux St. If I wanted to remember that Foveaux is the third street I would remember a tree with Gateuax growing on it. Its enough to jog my memory.

This system has worked PERFECTLY for me and I have not gotten lost since!

Possibly a GPS would help.

...but a lot more expensive!

Why have to remember a street name at all. Why not bring your booking sheet with you with it written down and print out directions from any number of online direction websites? It makes it easier for me that way and I do not have to think about it so much.

Kyle

It's a bit dangerous for me to read directions whilst driving. (I had an accident doing that.)

I try and memorize the route I am familiar with. If I have to look at the directions, I simply pull over to the side of the road, take a look and I am on my way again.

Kyle

What about streets without numbered names? If you're in New York do you think of a woman standing on a scale to remember Broadway?

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, I'll be here all week. Try the veal...

The numbers are only there to remind you of the order of the streets, not the name.

So yeah, you could use a fat woman on a scale to remember Broadway but you'd have to know when you'd come to Broadway by using the number system.

For instance if Broadway is Third Street you have to go down on the way to the gig I'd remember a fat woman weighing herself up a tree.

Personally, I use MS AutoRoute. I've always thought that the 1 - Bun, 2- shoe sytem was far too basic for all but thie simplest of memory feats. I am impressed that you've developed a method to navigate. I much prefer the 1=t=tea, 2=n=Noah, 5+l+law, 25=nl=nail etc system, this can be adapted to remeber almost anything especially when a 'Hook and Chain' method is used. All things considered, I am thinking of going GPS, yes it is expensive but it's a once only expense. I travel UK+Europe and a couple of times over the last couple of years I've found myself calling my wife at home to navigate me using our PC

Not to mention your system doesn't tell you which way to turn on a given street. I write my stuff down and I have one of those note book holders that suction cups to the windshield (I'm sure all the American guys know what I'm talking about, don't know if they are/where popular anywhere else). I just clip my dirctions up there. That way I don't really even have to look down. Plus here in Chicagoland (Chicago and the surrounding subburbs) there are so many traffic signals you always get a chance to look at your directions. Heck, you could have a sandwitch at some of the lights, they are so long.
Edd

Hi all,

This works for me. I go to the internet, and type in http://www.yahoo.com, and click on the "maps" link. I then type in the address, get the map, then click on the "printable version" link, print off the map, and go.

Have a good one,

Bob Phillips

I usually write the information down. And print out a map like bobn3 suggests.

randy

Just like in magic, it's always a good idea to rehearse.

If you are close to the address early enough, take a drive the day before or the morning before. Now everything should seem familiar when you really need to get there.

Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Practice, practice, practice.

I do the same thing if at all feasible. Always go there before the event so you know exactly where it is. Also this helps if there are unforseen obstacles like the street has been torn up for construction.

Randy

For australia you can go to http://www.131500.com.au which is the transport info line.

You type in your address and then the destination and it gives you how to get there by public transport- but also it gives you a map.

Personally I have never had any problems finding the right way to a gig-- mind you they are all in function venues and exhibition halls so they are pretty hard to miss.

Out-of-state ones I usually catch a cab if possible or usually I'm staying over night at the venue/hotel.

Cheers,

Dave

Obviously I have heard of MAPS!

But my problem is that my memory is SO bad that I have to pull over four or five times to check where I am. This systems, whilst pretty simple for memory 'feats' is cheaper then GPS and gets me to the gig on time!

Nick,
If it works for you then great! Thanks for the tip I am sure it will be helpful. You could use this idea with anything.

Nick,
Thanks for sharing. I'll bet this is the exact method that Harry Lorayne uses!

Ufo: Just a bit more sophisticated. HARRY LORAYNE.

I have found navigation to be a developed skill. I only work in Houston and I used to serve legal process, so this is an issue I haven't run into. I like what they make London cab drivers do. They have to spend a year (give or take) on a scooter with a map mounted on it learning how to navigate the city. Personally if stopping every five blocks were what it took to get me to an event, then I would leave early and do whatever it took to get there.