PHOTO: Delectable app (courtesy Delectable Facebook page)
Just when you thought you'd seen it all, more travel apps come out of the woodwork to surprise you.
By now, there's an app for basically everything, but that doesn't stop developers from continuing to push the envelope and innovate.
Some developers are simply adding to existing apps with noteworthy updates, attempting to cover all the bases.
From niche travel to all-encompassing travel, the app world has you covered these days. Here are five travel apps you must equip today.
Findery (iPhone, free)
The concept of Findery is fairly simple, but it's also very accommodating.
The app allows travelers to leave notes and images around the globe as they share their stories with other interested adventurers.
Locals also get in on the action, sometimes sharing secrets and interesting facts and tidbits about the destination. Celebrity gossip is also a popular topic, whether travelers are talking about where Janis Joplin lived or where Leonardo DiCaprio is relaxing.
"Activity" indicators allow users to track themselves and people they follow, "Discover" presents note maps from around the world and "Bumping" alerts you when you've literally bumped into another traveler's note.
Notifications also alert you when other travelers have commented on or favorites your notes. You can share everything via Facebook, Twitter and email.
Findery not only creates interaction among travelers, it also exposes under-the-radar stories that add to the destination.
Introducing the Findery app for iPhone! from Findery on Vimeo.
Delectable-Wine Scanner & Journal (iPhone, free)
Delectable allows users to take a photo of a wine label and instantly get reviews and descriptions of the product.
You can also share your favorite wines and view your friends' favorites, as well as get updates on what's trending in the industry and follow industry superstars from Napa, Bordeaux, Burgundy and more.
Version 4.0, released June 18, was Delectable's biggest update yet, improving speed dramatically and introducing a new and improved rating system.
Oh yeah, and when you're all done reviewing the wines, you can purchase your favorites from your smartphone and have them delivered to your doorstep.
Soon enough, sommeliers will be asking you for recommendations.
Backpackr (iPhone, coming soon to Android, free)
Since debuting in late April, Backpackr has received rave reviews (as of this writing, only one reviewer has given the app under five stars).
The app is essentially a social networking tool for backpackers, allowing like-minded travelers to find each other. You can search for backpackers with similar interests, add future trips via the En Route option, organize meetups, stamp your virtual passport when you arrive at a destination and stay updated with everyone via the app's News Feed.
Not only have backpackers been searching for an app like Backpackr, Backpackr even feature a sleek design and smooth functionality.
RideScout (iPhone, Android, free)
Need to move along the ground quickly and efficiently? Then check out RideScout.
RideScout gathers together all the ground transportation in the area and presents it to the traveler in a simple and user-friendly way. It includes directions, estimated cost and arrival times, ensuring that you get where you need to go, whether you are taking a cab, riding the Metro or biking.
You can search ground transportation options by cost, arrival time or proximity while receiving timely alerts.
You can also book rental cars or connect to bikeshare programs like Capital Bikeshare in Washington D.C. or Bay Area Bikeshare in San Francisco.
Heck, there's even a calorie calculator provided if you choose to walk.
Version 1.8.9 was released on June 7 and includes faster speeds, a better map, more transportation options, improved ride list results and Zipcar locations in 22 U.S. cities.
Ship Mate (iPhone, Android, free)
Cruiseline.com's Ship Mate cruise app allows you to track your ship while you are exploring the open seas, as well as gain information about ship passengers and view deck plans, reviews and pictures.
The app currently includes nearly 15 cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Norwegian. Features include a cruise countdown clock, roll call, port information, details about your journey, itineraries, deck cams, a packing list, cruise tips, postcards and pictures, and even a cruise chat that allows passengers to get to know one another.
With the latest update on June 21, it's now easier than ever to tag photos.
Best of all, you don't need an Internet connection to use the app.
Cruise App Ship Mate - FREE for iPhone & Android from Mike Jirout on Vimeo.
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