Can't Get There From Here
Google, yet again, has done something very cool -- Google maps. Right click on the Google logo and open the link in a new window.



At the heart of this is a mapping and directions-generating engine like in lots of other web-based directions sites, but here's the twist. Towards the top right of the window, click on the "satellite" link. That's right; you can view the maps as traditional labeled maps or as satellite pictures. Use the controls on the left to zoom in and out. To pan you can just drag the image.

Now search for something. Put your home address in the search window up top. Zoom way in. You might be able to see your house. You'll certainly be able to see your block.

Here's The Washington Monument. (Again, zoom in all the way.)

Another cool thing is you can do proximity searches. Once you're looking at something, any further searches start at that location. So if you're visiting the Washington Monument and thinking "where's the nearest Socialist Party headquarters?" just type "socialist party" in the search box and it turns out you're pretty close.

Here's The Hollywood Sign, and the closest falafel stands to it.

And, of course, like other map engines, you can use it to get directions. If, for example, Torontopearl wanted to visit me, here are directions from Toronto to Los Angeles. Obviously, with specific addresses, you can get more specific directions. - served up by Doctor Bean @ 11:17 PM