The Errant Æsthete

Scanning the Chicago Tribune’s recent list of gift ideas for travelers, turned up a nifty gem: Rand McNally’s fabMap. Made of “tear-proof, wrinkle-proof, waterproof micro-fiber fabric,” the map still does its job after being crumpled into your carry-on and even doubles as a lens cleaner.

The maps measure 8 by 11 inches and showcase the major sites of tourist hot spots like Hollywood, the Las Vegas Strip, the San Antonio River Walk, Miami’s South Beach, and Honolulu’s Waikiki, with several city maps that will be available Dec. 14. Available online for $5.95 each or at select big-box retailers like Barnes & Noble, Borders, Target, and Office Depot. Though the maps might not be particularly comprehensive, we imagine the serenity gained from the lack of map-folding crises is worth its weight in gold.