Custom Google Maps

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Custom Google Maps
Blake Emal
October 31, 2024

If you've ever felt lost in the sea of travel planning details, you're not alone.

We’ve all been there before…standing on a bustling street corner, smartphone in hand, swiping between email, notes, and Google Maps. Just trying to get from one place to another and figure how long it will take with traffic.

But there’s a simple tactic that can save you from ever experiencing this again:

Creating custom Google Maps.

What are custom Google Maps?

Custom Google Maps are like a personal travel canvas. They allow you to:

  • Plot specific locations
  • Categorize points of interest
  • Add custom details

All in one interactive map.

Why should you use custom maps?

  1. Everything in one place: No more juggling multiple apps or documents.
  2. Visual Planning: See your entire itinerary laid out geographically.
  3. Time Optimization: Quickly estimate travel times and plan efficient routes.
  4. Flexibility on the Go: Easily accessible on your smartphone for last-minute changes.

How to Create Your Custom Map

  1. Go to Google My Maps (https://www.google.com/mymaps)
  2. Click 'Create a New Map'
  3. Set your map title (e.g. "Rome Adventure 2024")
  4. Create layers for different categories:
    • Hotels
    • Restaurants
    • Attractions
    • Shopping
  5. Search for locations and add them to appropriate layers
  6. Customize icons and colors for each layer
  7. Add labels (optional)
  8. Choose a base map style

Pro Tip: Use different colors for each category to make your map easy to read at a glance.

Delegating your custom maps

Here’s where it gets really good. Instead of doing this all yourself, your assistant can create and maintain your custom maps for you.

Some examples:

Extend existing plans: Have your assistant transfer details from PDF itineraries to a custom map.

Standalone planning tool: Ask your assistant to create a custom map for each trip, including potential spots for you to review.

Continuous updates: Your assistant can keep the map current with any changes or new discoveries.

Share this simple guide with your assistant:

  1. Send your assistant this Loom video to walk through the steps
  2. Create layers for each category (Hotels, Restaurants, etc.)
  3. Use consistent color coding across trips
  4. Add brief notes to each pin (e.g. reservation times, dress codes)
  5. Update the map as new bookings are made

Custom Google Maps make it easier to ensure every minute of your trip drives value, whether for business or personal growth.