Why do they do this?

[jrpilot]

I was

[Craig.]

can be very easy to get lost in the taxiways of some airports even with the diagrams. And with directions needing to be followed 100% its best if your uncertain to call for a follow me car

[Nexus]

My SAS pilot friend flew the first into EGLL at night  some weeks ago (737-800 btw)
He said he never felt as lost in his whole life  ;D
Luckily the Captain of the flight knew exactly which way to go

[Fozzer]

I wish my flight sim would provide me with a "Follow me car", when trying to negotiate the taxiway route from the gates to the active runway, or the active runway to the gates, at KSFO, (San Francisco)... ...!
...all those letters and numbers to remember... ...!

LOL...LOL...LOL...!

Paul.

[Craig.]

its tough enough at your age  to remember M5/M6 isnt Mr Fozzer

[Fozzer]

[quote]its tough enough at your age

[Craig.]

North, west, engine Now your really confusing me
Cheers mate

[FLYING_TRUCKER]

Hope this helps a little

In Canada we have what is called a Canada Flight Supplement published by NAV CANADA and the latest version is effective 0901Z 5th August 2004 to 0901Z 30th September 2004.
Yes there are pictures of the airports and parking areas in this manual as well as what ever information you might require for a flight into the particular airport of your choosing.  Much more info such as fuel, radio frequencies etc.
There are several other sources available as well but this is probably one of the most common.
To answer your question about taxing an aircraft on an airfield that the pilot is unfamiliar with?  
Many crews will ask for  "Progressive Taxi".
The definition of "Progressive Taxi" is:  Precise taxi instructions given to a pilot unfamiliar with the aerodrome or issued in stages as the aircraft proceeds along the taxi route.
Hope this helps a little

Cheers...Happy Landings...Doug