StreetAdvisor Blog

Vacation suggestions, opinions and advice on StreetAdvisor

Reviews have been flooding in to StreetAdvisor in recent weeks, and included in these reviews are some helpful tips and suggestions for travelers in the holiday season. So whether you're braving the northern hemisphere cold and snow or escaping to the southern hemisphere for some summer sunshine, StreetAdvisor has some recommendations and advice for you.

At Pasadena, California (CityScore 88.20), catofgrey says:

"Pasadena is one of the largest cultural centers of the Los Angeles area. Originally a resort community for East-Coast wealthy on holiday, it is now a major commercial, residential, educational and cultural center, with facilities exceeding all but a few cities west of the Rockies.

Pasadena's heritage shows today in dozens of historical homes, many built by world-famous architects Greene and Greene. The most notable of these is the Gamble House, which is now a museum with tours of the home. The Norton Simon is an international quality art museum.

Most visitors to Pasadena focus on the Downtown area. The Downtown area also has major shopping, and the Pasadena Playhouse and Civic Auditorium are both regional performing art centers.

The New Year's Day Tournament of Roses Parade (and associated Rose Bowl football game) are an international event, with the 5+ mile parade route lined with an estimate million viewers."

At El Camino Drive, Beverly Hills, California (StreetScore 88.20), irms says:

"A block away from Rodeo Drive and around the corner from everything you need. In the more accessible part of Beverly Hills, the flat part, is where you’ll find El Camino Drive. Lined with quaint single-family homes, it is just a short walk away from 2 Rodeo, the Mecca of high street shopping, and an even shorter walk to the less famous, but just as vibrant South Beverly Blvd. This street is unique as there is affordable boutique shopping just east and glamorous shopping just west. Rodeo Drive on the west and South Beverly drive just east. South Beverly Drive is for the younger crowd with popular hot spots like the Urth Cafe, Pinkberry and Burger 90210."

At W 34th Street, New York, New York (StreetScore 68.00), andiefrancese says:

"34th street is famous for it's role in the film "Miracle on 34th street" but it's far from a miracle in my mind. 34th street is loud, obnoxious and incredibly crowded. Macy's, Penn Station and the Empire State Building, which are all within walking distance of one another, create a triple threat that just seems to breed chaos. The amount of people in the area at any given time pretty much sucks the enjoyability out of the area. As a city dweller myself I don't mind crowds, but this is even too much for me."

At Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois (StreetScore 68.61), belleskids says:

"Wacker drive used for many movies through out history, including the blues brothers, known for being a multi level street and offering great views of the Chicago River. Provides great access to shopping, night life and the many great things Chicago has to offer. It is easy to get turned around and keep in mind the homeless often use lower Wacker as a resting place."

At Wilson Park Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (StreetScore 75.09), Lindian says:

"Wilson Park Road is in eclectic Parkdale, within walking distance of the lake, Roncesvalles Village and Liberty Village. The street is also within a 20 minute streetcar ride of downtown. And a 24 hour streetcar at that. A view of the lake at the bottom of the street is framed by the tree canopy and Victorian houses. Neighbours watch and share the streetscape. Parkdale has always had great community feeling in this most diverse neighbourhood in the city. Long time residents and newcomers feel at home."

At James Street, London, United Kingdom (StreetScore 70.56), lauryn says:

"Perfectly located off the ever popular Oxford Street, and just across the road from Bond Street tube station, James Street is a gorgeous little street that is perfect for lunch or a night out.

Filled with various types of restaurants, James Street is perfect for the local business people to lunch in, or for anyone looking for a great night out and dinner at fabulous restaurants in a convenient and lovely part of London.

It is also a great little retreat for shoppers who have spent the day on Oxford Street. There are loads of attractions close by such as Selfridges and many hotels for travelers.

James Street is delightful and it’s almost as if it should be closed off to traffic and used simply as a grassed area and street filled with food outlets. A visit to James Street is like stepping out of the hustle and bustle of London and into something a little more relaxing and enjoyable on a personal and social level.

Highly recommended for anyone in the area, James Street doesn’t get as busy and overcrowded as Oxford Street so it’s a great getaway if you don’t like crowds but still enjoy good food."

At Cuba Street, Wellington, New Zealand (StreetScore 88.20), Globetrotter says:

"Cuba Street is officially a registered Historic Area and has many buildings along its length are of historical significance. It is the trendy area of the city, with a real bohemian flavor – art galleries, music stores, craft shops. The centre section of the street has been closed to traffic since 1969 and is now a busy pedestrian mall. The Victoria University’s Te Aro campus is nearby, and the area is a hive of activity at night. Sadly it is also where many of the city’s homeless crash for the evening as well."

At Burralong Court, Burpengary, Queensland, Australia (StreetScore 74.67), deb123gold says:

"This has been a fabulous street to raise a family - a very quiet cul-de-sac with only local traffic. Have always felt 'safe' here. Never heard of any 'break-ins' in this street or vandalism. Kids will love being able to ride their bikes in the street without worrying about traffic passing through (apart from the odd neighbor arriving home!). So close to all shopping, medical and service facilities, also close to lakes, dams, duck ponds and parks.

A great alternative to 'country living' - has a country feel about it. All the houses in this street are on 3/4 acre, so neighbors have a bit of 'personal space' around them. In all the time here there have been only one or two noisy parties. Great street if you have a dog as most people in this street seem to have one! Walking the dog is a good way to get to know your neighbours as the dogs sure want to meet and greet each other!!"

Whatever streets you choose to travel on this holiday season, we hope you have enjoyed the genuine local advice provided by StreetAdvisor community members. And when you return from your own travels, be sure to share your opinions of the exciting paces you visited on StreetAdvisor.com.

StreetAdvisor and Realestate.com.au rollout begins in South Australia

The partnership between StreetAdvisor and and Realestate.com.au to provide street and suburb reviews on Australia’s leading real estate site has begun its rollout in South Australia.

StreetAdvisor’s unique scorecards will be featured throughout realestate.com.au adding a touch of genuine local flavour to property listings.

So how will it look? Here's one example. This listing for Third Avenue Glenelg East features a scorecard that looks like this:

Users can click through to StreetAdvisor to write a review, read further reviews or explore streets with StreetView level mapping. With the initial launch being only for select properties in South Australia, a national rollout is planned for early 2009.

So if you have some local knowledge about real estate, you can now add it to StreetAdvisor knowing that your reviews will help thousands of Australian choose the best place to live.

The best and worst of Western Australia

StreetAdvisor.com.au recently blogged about the latest street reviews for Queensland, Australia, and now we're exploring the other side of the continent: Western Australia. Here's the latest from the west, mainly from the rapidly expanding norther suburbs of Perth.

At Calluna Way, Forrestfield, Western Australia (StreetScore 64.42), kidsndogs says:

"I lived on this street for 15 years and raised 3 children and would still be there now were it not for circumstances. The street is average to above average for the area in terms of visual appeal. There is nothing really very close except the bus which stopped a few doors down to us and the nearest Primary school is at least a 20 minute walk - although the local high school is only 10 minutes walk.

They have recently built a new commercial strip (a few shops) about 10 minutes walk but they don't seem to have much (party shop, hair dresser etc) and no restaurants/cafe or deli. The main shopping area in Forrestfield is a 5 minute drive and all the basics are covered. You need to drive about 15-20 minutes to get a big centre/cinema etc. Many of the residents have been there for years and may never move.

There are some young families but mainly older couples with teens or adult children. The road is occasionally used as a drag strip by hoon drivers but mostly does not get too many cars. Tonkin Highway is very easy to access and the city is only 15-20 minutes drive using the Freeway."

At Geordie Rise, Sorrento, Western Australia (StreetScore 81.72), OneHellOvaView says:

"What more could someone want when choosing a place to live. Huge ocean views over the marina or out to Rottnest, plus surrounded by parks and only a couple of minutes walk to the best beaches Perth has to offer.

There is only one problem! People that live in this street never sell, so trying to buy in this street is virtually impossible."

At Ellendale Drive, Heathridge, Western Australia (StreetScore 39.67), Krispy says:

"Ellendale drive is great if you need to catch a train often, not so great if you like graffiti free walls. Unfortunately being the road that leads down to Edgewater Train Station, this street sees its fair share of vandals. The location of this street is really good, if security could be more alert in the area then I would definitely move back here."

At Feakle Bend, Ridgewood, Western Australia (StreetScore 85.90), rizza says:

"This street is only new to the world but growing fast. It has great parks and people, an amphitheatre across the road and sport goals and oval."

At Ingram Court, South Bunbury, Western Australia (StreetScore 85.41), Hawks says:

"Being a cul-de-sac, little traffic, next to large kids play park, Adam Rd primary school, and Newton Moore Senior High School. Minninup Forum down the road, with Joes Pizza, Chicken Treat, News agency, Fish n Chips, Chinese, hairdressers and Woolworths."

Bunbury used to be a separate town south of Perth, but with rapid growth and urban sprawl it is about to become a southern Perth suburb. From the far north of Ridgewood to the far south in Bunbury, Perth people are talking about their streets and suburbs.

You can contribute too. Post a comment, write your own review or start a forum topic about Western Australia today at StreetAdvisor.com.au.

Exploring California with StreetAdvisor.com

Californian StreetAdvisor community members have been busy gettng out and reviewing lots of streets in their neighborhoods. Here's a snapshot of what is happening in the streets of the major cities in California.

Oakland, California (CityScore 59.05)

Sample street - Oliver Avenue, Oakland, California (StreetScore 75.30) - dcastillo says:

"Oliver Avenue is a hidden gem that is centrally located within Oakland / San Leandro area, yet offers peace and quiet. The homes are well kept and the street has almost no through traffic."

San Francisco, California (CityScore 63.44)

Sample street - Arguello Boulevard, San Francisco, California (StreetScore 90.65) - wizkid310 says:

"Arguello Street in the Richmond District of San Francisco is another busy street during rush hours. On the street there is Roosevelt Middle School that is one of the top public middle schools in San Francisco. The blocks of Arguello are longer than you average San Francisco street. Cars drive on this street all day and night and the # 33 bus line runs on it."

Bakersfield, California (CityScore 57.38)

Sample street - 19th Street, Bakersfield, California (StreetScore 72.00) - heylovie says:

"19th street is home to the most up and coming area of downtown Bakersfield. It's a great mix of old neighborhood with wonderful gems downtown. There's the Stars Theater Restaurant, the new 1612 City Lofts project, the Downtown First Friday highlighting local artists, and numerous art galleries.

The 1612 City Lofts project is the first mixed-use development in the downtown revitalization projects and looks like a winner. The intersection of 19th and Eye has recently finished reconstruction and looks wonderful. It's the epicenter of the Downtown First Fridays which are the best way to enjoy the night life downtown with the family and friends."

Fresno, California (CityScore 63.75)

Sample street - E Olive Avenue, Fresno, California (StreetScore 70.56) - lrmoore2 says:

"This street is definitely in my Top 5 favorite Streets of Fresno, mainly due to the Tower District. There's a lot to do on Olive, including eating at the best deli in Fresno, visiting the Tower Theater which is a Fresno landmark, or just walking around the downtown area and taking in all of the pleasant sights and smells. There's something for everyone. The only thing is that there are a lot of homeless people on this street though, which is not my favorite, but its something I'm willing to deal with in order to experience this street!"

San Diego, California (CityScore 64.27)

Sample street - Pacifica Drive, San Diego, California (StreetScore 77.36) - MCM says:

"Steeply pitched street on the south face of San Diego's famous Mt. Soledad. Located within the North Pacific Beach (local say PB) district. Stellar view of mission bay! Some I-5 freeway noise when winds die down. Very central, but traffic entering freeway is frustrating during typical commute hours. Strong police presence on Grand and Garnett is probably a result of the bustling college partying in downtown PB, which is the area's greatest liability; unless of course you happen to be between 19-25 y/o."

Long Beach, California (CityScore 55.79)

Sample street - E Mendez Street, Long Beach, California (StreetScore 73.14) - TJ031965 says:

"Nice area. Great mix of people and quiet area in the evening. Safe for late night strolls. Close to freeways and PCH so you can be in Los Angels or the OC in 30 minutes or less. Also LB airport is 5 minutes away."

Sacramento, California (CityScore 64.49)

Sample street - Windbridge Drive, Sacramento, California  (StreetScore 66.59) - AmandaC says:

"We lived right off of Windbridge, and we loved this area. The street is usually quiet and home to many families of different stages. There are several parks and schools in the area, and a nice shopping center with all of the basic stores, including one hole in the wall Mexican restaurant that was my absolute favorite. There are lots of houses for rent and several apartment complexes, so there is a rather high turnover, but it is still a safe neighborhood. Windbridge is also where the 4th of July parade takes place, which is a great community event."

As you can see, there's a lot happening in California. What's happening in your neighborhood? Write a street or city review or post a forum topic at StreetAdvisor.com today to share your news with your neighbors.

The best and worst of Queensland

StreetAdvisor.com.au has been recieving plenty of reviews in Queensland recently that provide a real view into different communities.

At Cupania Court, Annandale, Queensland (StreetScore 75.30), happycamper says:

"Cupania Court is quiet and leafy and wide compared to a streets in the newer areas of Annandale. It has very little traffic as it is a cul-de-sac.

Most of the residents are long term and enjoy the benefits of being close to important facilities without having to live on a busy street.

It is one of those streets that children can still learn to ride a bike or kick a ball in the street. They can also safely walk the 500m to the school gate."

Note: Annandale is a suburb of Townsville.

At Benbek Circuit, Sunnybank Hills, Queensland (StreetScore 24.26), MaryM says:

"Packed with irresponsible tenants, completely trashed the place. Full of shitboxes parking on the street. PLACE TO AVOID! "

Note: Sunnybank Hills is an outer southern suburb of Brisbane.

At Dunkirk Street, Gaythorne, Queensland (StreetScore 34.93), sjhm says the street is:

"surrounded by housing commission places which is a major problem, constant partying and very violent fights that spill out onto the street. Have been robbed numerous times and have had 2 people stabbed in our front yard, it is a nightmare area!"

Note: Gaythorne is a northern suburb of Brisbane.

At Explorers Way, Bargara, Queensland (StreetScore 81.16), dora1980 says:

"This is a street where you know your neighbours name. Very family friendly. Short walks to the beach or a short drive to Bargara CBD."

Note: Bargara is a suburb of Bundaberg.

At Winifred Street, Clayfield, Queensland (StreetScore 59.96), Karl says:

"Like most streets in Northside Brisbane, Winifred Street does get it's share of "rat-runners" but as so much is within easy reach this small issue can be forgiven. Being very close to both Eagle Junction State School and Clayfield College we do also get quite a few people parking outside our houses, particularly teachers parking 8 hours each weekday and parents parking each morning & afternoon. Occasionally these people can be a little unthinking about how/where they park which has led to the occasional kerbside altercation. Apart from that no problems really."

Note: Clayfield is an inner northern suburb of Brisbane.

That's the good, the bad and the ugly about Queensland. Do you agree or disagree with these reviews? Post a comment, write your own review or start a forum topic about Queensland today at StreetAdvisor.com.au.

Eating garbage, collapsing houses and other tough tales from the streets

Some of the street reviews posted on StreetAdvisor.com recently paint a grim picture of life. Houses are collapsing and sliding down hills and people seem to be eating garbage and rebelling against suburban conformity. Life is tough out there on the streets!

Photo by Aaron G Stock - Creative Commons license

At Lyell Avenue, Rochester, New York (StreetScore 53.58), wanda01 says:

"I wouldn't want to live on Lyell Ave. This area is a very bad section of the city. There is a lot of crime and drug activity in this area. There is even a strip club or two on this road. One thing that is good is the Garbage plates" that are made on Lyell. If you're not from Rochester your probably wonder what is a garbage plate. I know it sounds awful but really does taste good. You get a burger with macaroni salad, chili cheese fries and sauce piled on one plate. You eat this mixture but it actually really good. Rochester is famous for them. You can get them at almost every restaurant."

Photo by Knile - Creative Commons license

At Swainland Road, Oakland, California (StreetScore 28.52), Swainland says:

"I used to live on the 6200 block of Swainland. As a general matter the street is lacking in city services and the infrastructure is crumbling, all thanks to the city of Oakland's budget problems. More important, though, is the fact that homes have been built on this hillside without adequate planning. The streets are about a car and a half wide and there is virtually no way to get by when people park on the streets (which is often). The storm drains are always clogged and there are mass problems with drainage.

We had flooding on our lot every winter and it got worse with each year, as more homes were built upslope. The city engineer even admitted that the hillside was unstable and floods and landslides would be common on Swainland in the near future, but since it was all private property it was up to the landowners to fix these problems.

So after the last nearly catastrophic flood in 2003, we sold the house and moved. Be warned, Swainland is a street that has serious problems with floods and slope instability, in addition to the well known fire problems."

At NW 57th Court, Pompano Beach, Florida (StreetScore 17.64), sirrufuswilkins says:

"I really can’t blame the street for this. Maybe it’s the fault of the state. Maybe the conspiracy to make this place a hellhole goes all the way to the top. Whoever’s to blame, this entire city is a suburban hell of cardboard cutouts and Tetris piece housing. Don’t move here."

What local phenomenon would you warn prospective new neighbors about? Share your news on StreetAdvisor.com - write a review or post a forum topic today.

StreetAdvisor has made it even easier to review your favorite places

StreetAdvisor has made a minor revision to our homepage to add a 'Write a Review' button to the top menu bar.

Now it is even easier for you to review your favorite places. Click the button to visit our new review page, where you can follow three simple steps to create a review of your street or city:

1. Search for a place
2. Select from the list
3. Write your review

You can of course continue to browse our site and then review places you find that way. What local news do you have to share today on StreetAdvisor.com?

StreetAdvisor community members are happy in paradise and other places

Many top quality street and city reviews from around Australia have been added to StreetAdvisor recently by StreetAdvisor community members happy to promote the characteristics of their neighborhoods.

At Paradise Point, Queensland (CityScore 70.56), visitor zoewolf says:

"this is one of the sunny spots to be, not too busy and nice and friendly."

A view of the water from The Esplanade, Paradise Point, Queensland

At Carbine Street, Kerang, Victoria (StreetScore 65.26), resident shaggydee tells us that:

"Carbine is an insignificant little street in the small town of Kerang, a street full of friendly, down to earth working class country people, some would say that it is the wrong side of the tracks, however this is undeserved, and is in fact a very nice street to live in, it has a mixture of people from all cross sections of the community, from young families to retirees, although on the northern outskirts of the town, it is close to most services."

In Karalee, Queensland (CityScore 74.95), resident Tara says that:

"Karalee is a beautiful area to live in with: large lots, a small shopping village with a Woolworths, a local primary school, reasonable commute and a beautiful semi-rural feel. There are no noisy neighbors here other than the birds! A great place for families because of the quiet streets and large properties to play on. Most yards are around an acre, enough room to own a horse. There is an abundance of parks and wildlife, many of which you will find living in your property. Located next to two rivers with stunning views. "

At Shore Grove, Coburg North, Victoria (StreetScore 86.81), resident LaurieS says:

"The street is relatively quiet. Plenty of greenery around with tree lined footpaths and clean roadways. Quite a mix of different cultures and nationalities. Just a short walk to shops, schools, large parkland and to the famous cosmopolitan Sydney Road shopping strip. A short bus ride to Northlands Shopping Complex and very close to rail and tram public transport."

At Swimming Pool Road, Tingha, New South Wales (StreetScore 53.92), TinghaDon says:

"come on down to Tingha and live the good life we are already living - you're always welcome here."

Swimming Pool Road, Tingha, New South Wales

It's always great to hear happy stories from satisfied neighbors at StreetAdvisor. What do you have to say about your street and city? Share your news at StreetAdvisor.com.

Focus on New South Wales, Australia, part 2

In a recent post about the state of New South Wales, Australia, there were so many good reviews to comment on that I could not fit them all in, so now here is part two on NSW.

At Tangarra Street, Enfield South, New South Wales, Australia (StreetScore 67.14), resident darkrhino93 says:

"This street is so convenient. It has a chemist, Italian restaurant, newsagent, convenience store, and is a stone throw away from a garden centre, and enormous park, swimming pool and easy transport to pretty much anywhere in Sydney."

At Greenhaven Drive, Umina Beach, New South Wales, Australia (StreetScore 81.58), resident greenisgood says:

"Greenhaven Drive, Umina Beach is a relatively long (no through road) with well established houses to one end, together with lovely beach houses set high in peaceful private driveways, at the start of a hillside, at the other end - most of the homes have glorious views over the treetops and out to the ocean. It is most suited to families with a nice park situated on the corner of Greenhaven Drive and Brisbane Street, and has a strong Neighbourhood Watch and community feel. It is situated only a 15-20 minute leisurely walk to the glorious sands of Umina and Ocean Beach with its newly built surf clubs, and nicely renovated 4-star Ocean Beach Holiday Park.

Plus there is an assortment of cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, post office, chemists, doctors/dentists and a school all within this walking distance. The 41/2 Star Mantra Resort and the Ettalong Beach to Palm Beach Ferry is approximately 8-10 minutes drive away. The Woy Woy train station to Sydney CBD and Newcastle is approximately 10 minutes drive away. In summary :- although Greenhaven Drive is not in the hub of Umina Beach, it is in perfect proximity of everything Umina Beach has to offer, but without the bustling noise, cars and crowds!!"

StreetView of Sydney showing Harbour Bridge and Opera House

At Edgar Street, Towradgi, New South Wales, Australia (StreetScore 85.48), resident f10n4 says:

"I love this street. The neighbours are lovely, they play cricket on the street which reminds me of my childhood. The location is awesome, being only 10 mins walk from the beach. The houses are nice, though a friend once described the street as "a bit Desperate Housewives" lol. You can hear the ocean at night when the tide is high.

The only thing not going for it is there are not too many places to go at night nearby. A few local restaurants in Corrimal are good, but not really enough. The Towradgi hotel very close by is a rort, way too expensive and crowded and the service is terrible - a bit too much like Sydney. The Towradgi bowling club is fine though, with some nice views.

It's a short drive to Wollongong city though so nightlife can be found there, and Thirroul is only 10 - 15 mins in the other direction is you like a more hippie atmosphere.

Crime is low, I don't feel like I have to worry about my car on the street. The population is mostly older people with some younger families but not many. The houses are all older - not new McMansions. The people here are really down to earth and you can tell they love it here.

I love living here and given half a chance I would stay here as long as I can."

At O'Reilly Street, Parramatta, New South Wales, Australia (StreetScore 59.75), former resident f10n4 says:

"It's a short street on the southern side of Parramatta. Most of the old houses are being replaced with apartments, making the traffic and street parking more and more difficult. The street is fairly close to Westfields Parramatta which is good if you like crowds and shopping. It's also walking distance from the rest of Parramatta city and that's convenient for meeting friends, catching trains, buses and the beautiful Parramatta Park. The noise pollution is not too bad though the street is one street away and parallel from Great Western Highway, but you get used to the traffic noise.

What's missing from the street is a sense of community with the whole suburb. I found my neighbours in my building were extremely nice and friendly, but beyond that you just don't get to know anyone. There are no community markets are community focus places. There is no village atmosphere where you can go to a local butcher and have a conversation for instance. Westfield tends to kill off any community spirit, and also kills off many small businesses trying to compete in the neighbourhood.

In the ten years I lived there I had two break-ins: one was into my lock-up garage, the other years later was into my car. The phone booth on the corner is constantly being vandalised. There are a few nice apartment blocks on the streets with some nice gardens, but there's one particular one on the corner of Pitt St which is horrendous, always graffitied, always with real estate signages out the front, always noisy. I moved out 12 months ago and am now living on the coast where it's much more quiet, safe and where the people are friendlier."

The choices we all make about where to live make fascinating reading. You can tell your story on StreetAdvisor.com.

Searching for places made easy on StreetAdvisor

Many new community members like to seek out familiar places and see what they look like on StreetAdvisor, especially as they can look at the street they grew up on via StreetView. When searching for streets and cities, the search results that Google maps (and hence StreetAdvisor) provides can be confusing. That's why it's really important to give the search engine as much information as possible. Here's one scenario that illustrates how small changes in your search query can yield very different results.

I type in a search for "Madison" (click on the link to go to the search results page). Below is a screen image of the search. It shows that I have found the town of Madison, Wisconsin, United States (CityScore 76.72).

Maybe I wanted a street, such as Madison Ave in New York City. In that case, I should search for "Madison Ave" (click on the link to go to the search results page). That takes me to Madison Avenue, New York, New York, United States (StreetScore 97.33).

Maybe I was looking for a town, not a street. In that case I should make the search service find a city by adding a state to my search. I want Madison Missouri, so I search for "Madison MO" (click on the link to go to the search results page). I find exactly what I was looking for - the town of Madison, Missouri.

It can be frustrating when searching is not as simple and intuitive as we want it to be. But while we may be smart, computers are not, and they need all the information we possess in order to deliver a useful service to us. That's why adding a street type (st, rd, ave) or a state (full name or abbreviation) can make all the difference to your search results.

How do you feel about where you live? Log in to StreetAdvisor and tell us all about it, or upload a photo to show us!