Travel Gear: Scratch Maps

There’s something strange about these Scratch Maps. They are pretty, no doubt—one is made of chalkboard, another of corkboard and a third even has a platinum look. But something interesting happens when you scratch a place on these world maps with a coin—the area acquires a vibrant colour, as if by magic. But magic is, of course, merely sleight of hand—the maps have a silver foil underneath that hides a colour that reveals itself when scratched. A high-quality scratch coin is provided for that purpose. The map acts as both travel planner and journal, as you can either plan your trips by scratching routes and directions on the posters, or mark the places you have already visited. Scratch maps come in many compact sizes, shimmering shades and different finishes, and region specific maps are also available. From €13.95; scratchmaps.org