This is definitely good news for all Google Map addicts out there: Mini Map Sidebar is a Firefox extension that enables you to have Google Maps always at sight. It also includes a set of convenient tools to blend Google mapping and web browsing into a unique experience.

Mini Map Sidebar works in a very simple way: whenever you come across any address or Google map link on a webpage, you can select it and drop it onto the sidebar and Google Maps will immediately show its location. The only problem I see here is the fact that sometimes the sidebar is simply too small to be able to see the map properly.

The extension also features a handy tool to obtain directions from one address to another. For instance, you can set a given address as your home location in the extension, and get directions easily to any other address you find online.