Soundmap - Soho Audio Walk Review

About Soundmap

1. A bit obvious this, but do wear comfortable shoes.
2. Be aware of your surroundings. London is a busy city. Make sure you stop against a wall and not near the curb when listening to your audio guide.
3. Take spare batteries for your CD player or MP3 player.
4. Don't forget your camera - and some spare batteries!

Pros

• Good for independent travelers
• Fascinating insight from someone connected to the area
• Don't have to wait for other people
• Can always hear the guide
• Can walk at your own pace
• Can stop anywhere you choose

Cons

• Irma Kurtz (the narrator) can be a bit bossy!
• Can't ask questions like you can with a 'live' tour guide
• Can't share the experience with others

I used to live in Soho so I already knew quite a bit about the area but was interested in what more I could learn from this audio walk.

The narrator is Irma Kurtz, who has a sexy, sultry voice and has some fascinating insider knowledge of life in Soho in the bohemian 60s and 70s, and right up to today.

The walk only takes an hour and you don't have to pause your MP3/CD player as there is music and the sound of walking to fill the time as you move around the streets. I didn't feel rushed and although I was strolling I saw a lot of Soho in such a short time.

The background sounds were appropriate but I know some people aren't keen on them. I found the recording volume high enough so I could hear everything over the busy sounds of the streets of London.

I was impressed with the way the walk takes in so many facets of Soho from the history of the cholera epidemic, to it's fruit and veg street market, plus a great range of pubs. It was a shame the walk tried to glamorize the violence in Soho's gangsters but I do understand people are interested in this side of the area's history.

I enjoyed my hour strolling around Soho and found places I had never noticed. And that's what makes taking an audio tour so worthwhile.