Recently, I was contacted for permission to use a flickr image I had posted of the OKC Bricktown Canal - something I had shot quickly with my cell phone last December while we were hanging with our families during the holidays - for an amazing little application called schmap. Evidently, I’ve been in the dark on this really, nifty little application for almost four years (though I think this newer version isn’t quite so old), and now - being the map lover that I am - I’m over the moon for this thing and simply had to share my new discovery! Am I the only one who’s just heard of this?!

There’s an online version you can use, but take it from me, the downloadable, desktop version for offline use is full and complex without being complicated and has a more beautiful interface than the online variety. Plus, it will come in handy for those times I’m using my laptop out and about and offline (especially since the effort to have free wifi citywide in Portland has been squashed). Described as a uniquely interactive experience, the desktop schmap allows you to search, bookmark, take tours, quick zoom, email your findings, get directions, print custom maps, and more for 200 cities around the world. And in case you’re wondering: Yes, it’s a totally free application.While it appears the neighborhoods aren’t completely populated with every possible tidbit of information (yet), the listings of hotels, bars, restaurants, events, parks, and any other thing you can possibly map (minus a residence address) is there, well categorized, well marked, and easily navigatable. One window shows the map view, with icons laid out very similarly to what you would see in maps.google.com. However, schmaps incorporates a city viewfinder (a zoomed-out map view) as well as a close-in view of the neighborhood or area you are currently perusing, plus the directory of items (check to display, and each category is subdivided so you can get really specific), and a review window showing the current selection’s information (complete with image slideshow, name, address, phone, email, website, and a well-written review).

The interface is well designed, making it very easy to get around and either find information quickly or browse at a slower pace.So far, I’ve only downloaded the Portland schmap, but I’ll soon be rocking the L.A., Rome, Montreal, and other will-be-traveled cities where we’ll eventually be headed. I’ve already discovered several coffee shops, galleries, and other side-street gems I never knew existed in my own, well-traveled neighborhood, and I can’t wait to go check out these latest finds.To use, download the city guide you want (on the right side of the page). Widgets, an iPhone application, and user-generated schmaps are also all available for free on the site. And if you decide to download the OKC flavor schmap, keep your eyes out for my Bricktown picture.