Entertainment Book Digital Access Review

Hi everyone, I'm doing a quick review of the Entertainment Book Digital Access.  Before I go on, Entertainment.com provided me free digital access in exchange for this review.  All opinions on this post are my own.

For those who have never seen or used the Entertainment Book - It's basically an archive of coupons relevant for the city you purchased it for.  I'm reviewing the greater New York area book in Digital Access form.  I've read several other online reviews and most people who have reviewed the digital access did not mention too many specific deals that they used.  Personally, I've found numerous deals listed near me but none that applied to my shopping, eating or entertainment habits so far.  I'll update this post when I do.

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On to the specifics.  I tried the app on an iPhone and it found coupons near me based on my location.  You can also browse to different locations in preparation for your travels.  Some coupons are digital and others must be printed.  I suggest taking a look and print any relevant coupons ahead of time.

In general, you'll find some deals, if you happen to be purchasing certain specific items - just like most paper coupons.  It is, in extension, a digital version of the book.  I think the book version may be easier to browse and find relevant items in preparation of your daily shopping journey.  The digital access can get you specific deals near you.

As of this blog post, I don't find the digital access all that helpful.  You won't find too many local restaurants listed. I've mostly found McDonalds, Burger King, and specific sandwiches at Subway chains to be somewhat helpful.  These are for specific sandwiches or drinks, so it will only be relevant if you buy those items.  I tried the app in midtown Manhattan, lower Manhattan and several parts of Queens.

If you are like using coupons and looking for deals, this app will be a helpful addition to your other coupons and deal hunting habits.  I would recommend getting both the paper and Digital Access versions for best results.  You can get both for $35 on their site Entertainment.com

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Getting Around NYC Better With Bus Time

The MTA has made many recent improvements and one of the best in my opinion are the Alerts and Timers in Train stations.  Not all stations have them yet, but I am always glad to see the clocks in stations that have them.  It lets me know how much longer I need to wait and my anxiety level goes down.  Just knowing this fact makes my commute easier.  If you are taking a bus route in NYC, you now have Bus Time to help keep you posted to when your next bus will come.

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I've only started using the mobile Bus Time site for a few months, and these few months have been much more convenient than prior to having this.  I can now see how many buses are on their way and how many stops away they are.  Even if I have to wait another 20 minutes, just knowing the fact that one is on the way helps.  You can even run to the nearest grocery store and grab a drink or snack while waiting without worrying about the bus leaving without you.

To use Bus Time, just type http://bustime.mta.info/ into your smartphone and you're all set.  Choose the Route you are taking and you get a map of all the stops along with where the bus is.  If you are one of the few who don't have a smartphone or don't have a data plan, you can even send a text to 511123 and you'll end up with a quick list of your bus and how far away they are.

You can get detailed instructions for texting Bus Time here.  I've tried it and it works well.  Not as much detail as the full site, but enough information to get you through the wait.  If you're not from NYC, and are here for a visit, get to know this system if you plan on using mass transit.  It will make your travels easier.

Have you used Bus Time?  Do you find it has improved your commute to an extent?  Leave your thoughts in the comments.

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