There are a couple options you can use for in game maps, but I'm not sure how well they work under Linux. They both operate by reading your log file so you'll need to enable logging and bind one of your movement keys to do a /loc (and optionally sense heading).
The maps will display in a different window other than your game window, and will put a little arrow on the map and your orientation based on where you are and where you're pointing. It sounds like this might be helpful for you.
One is called nparse, that one has spell timers built in as well so you can see when your buffs/dots are wearing off. The one I prefer is called ZLiz as it uses the old EQAtlas maps which just look better.
I'll leave it to the Linux nerds to explain if it can be done with your setup though, I don't know.
[You must be logged in to view images. Log in or Register.]
edit: oh, and I concur on the halfling druid, it should fit your playstyle nicely, there are also several player guides that explain some of the more nuanced things you can do, just search the wiki for "player guides" and scroll to the druid ones.