Golden apps for traveling to and following the Olympics
Just in time for the Summer Games, Meg Baker checks out a few apps plus ebooks to guide you through the Olympics and London.
Let the games begin!
Just in time for the Olympic Games this summer, here are a few apps and e-books to guide you through the Olympics and the city of London itself.
Lonely Planet’s London Travel Guide
If you're planning a trip to London for the Games, Lonely Planet’s London Travel Guide app will take you to the best of the city's sights, shopping, places to eat or go out, hotels, activities, events and much more.
Built-in GPS maps work online and offline with city and neighborhood overviews about the local scenes, points-of-interest, and practical information about places, such as opening hours, cross streets, contact details, and prices.
Download Lonely Planet’s London Travel Guide: Apple iTunes
London Eye
If you want to see the sights firsthand (from your couch at home, that is) check them out from London’s highest point atop the landmark London Eye. The app includes stunning panoramic views of the city and offers a guided, audio tour of the city.
You can go back in time with the London Eye 4D experience too, to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks and experience 24 hours in less than two minutes.
And if you are planning a trip to the real-world Eye, purchase tickets right through the app. Once riding atop the London Eye, share your photos instantly with your social networks.
Download The London Eye App: Android Marketplace
iLondon 2012
Be a part of the games from anywhere with the iLondon 2012 app, it will keep you updated on medal standings, sporting event rundowns and other news from the Olympics.
The $1.99 app also includes a list of venues with directions to get you from your position to where the action is.
Download iLondon: Apple iTunes
Here's how it works:
To make the most of your London experience, make sure you've thoroughly read up on the city first. Here's a collection of ebooks to get you started:
-- On a budget? Save and enjoy with Recession-busting Britain: Best Free Experiences
-- Find the best restaurants with Tasty Britain: Best Eating Experiences.
-- See the sights, museums and events with Culture Vulture Britain: Best Cultural Experiences.
-- Make the trip one to remember with your children with Mini Britain: Best Experiences with Kids.
-- And both a good read and travel resource, Ye Olde Britain: Best Historical Experiences.
NBC Olympics Live Extra
Last but not least, stream the games live on your smartphone wherever you are for free, with NBC Olympics Live Extra. The viewing experience is enhanced with camera angles and replays you may not otherwise have access to.
Set push notifications so you don’t miss your favorite event, but if you can’t watch it in real time, don’t worry -- the video on demand feature captures all of the historic moments.
Download NBC Olympics Live Extra: Apple iTunes
Note: Video shot at Maison 24 in New York City.
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