GateGuru for iPhone – Review
Category:Travel
Price: Free
TiP Rating: 4/5
Release Date: Updated April 1, 2011
Current Version: 2.2
Seller: Mobility Apps LLC
Rated: 4+
Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later.
Link to app
App Store Description: GateGuru is the leading day-of travel application that covers over 120 airports across the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia. We have created GateGuru to serve as a valuable resource from the minute you leave on your day of travel to the minute you arrive at your destination. The application allows you to view your Tripit and KAYAK itineraries, view/post airport security wait times and see a structured list of airport food, shops and services – including over 20,000 reviews and tips and 4,000 photos from fellow travelers on airports, terminals, and airport amenities.
Summary: Traveling is crazy enough without worrying about navigating various terminals or what to do with your time thanks to an unexpected delay. GateGuru takes the guess work out of navigating airports in a hope to make your travel experience a little less hectic.
Review: I have been traveling a lot and recently found myself with 4 hours to kill while waiting for a connecting flight. Four hours in an airport can be extremely boring, unless you know where to go (or have good company). Luckily, I had both.
GateGuru will automatically detect any airports that are nearby. Once you select which one you’re in (or going to), you can choose between viewing different food options, shopping opportunities and other airport amenities. You can either focus on a specific terminal, or if you feel like exploring, you can check out the entire airport. The app also offers a clean, uncluttered map of the airport. This especially comes in handy if you’re catching a connecting flight and need to switch terminals. It gives you ample time to map your route and any stops along the way.
Another great feature of GateGuru is that it offers real-time checkpoint updates, such as security lines. This is incredibly valuable information to have. Plus, it helps you decide if you need to start undressing in line, or if you can wait until you have a bin to put your sweater, belt and shoes in.
If you sign up for a GateGuru account, you get the extra perk of check-ins. Who doesn’t love a game element? And if you’re spending a lot of time in airports, you might appreciate the small achievement. Users can check-in and earn points. Take a look at the High Flyers leaderboard and see where you rank among your fellow travelers. It would be nice if Facebook check-ins were integrated – two kill birds with one stone sorta thing.
Airports are especially confusing when you’re in unfamiliar territory, but even if you’re a regular traveler, terminals are some what uncharted territory. GateGuru offered relevant reviews and tips that made my four hour stay in JFK much more pleasant than I thought it would be. I’d recommend any traveler, novice or expert, carry this app with them on their next trip.
