Dots on Maps.

An interactive atlas for the modern era.

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Inspiration

Our Planet is incredible beyond words. To even attempt to sum up the inumerable treasures that are found within, calls for a lifetime of dedication. When I first ventured out from home, a world of endless possibilities unfolded before my eyes. The passion I felt was instantaneous. Our vibrant cultures and the enchanting landscapes that surround us provide an ever-lasting inspiration to the wandering soul. When it came to approaching the site, I recalled a simple world atlas my grandmother bought me when I was a child. Somehow, even then, it all made sense to me. Dots on Maps has been designed to mirror an atlas for the new, interactive age. A way to share a deeper understanding, educate, and unite people.

What it does

Applying a universal format, a vast collection of interactive maps makes discovery easy and engaging. Each dot is hand-picked for inclusion, with captivating images and a growing data-bank of themes to help users learn about, plan, and undertake travel in a meaningful manner. An immense collection of curated selections (numbering in the tens of thousands) will serve as the backbone for enhanced content creation, aiming to enshrine the wonders of Earth in a sense that is substantive and evocative.

How we built it

Thanks to Google's wonderful Maps for Developers tool, I was given the opportunity to craft maps that are eye-catching and intuitive. As a visual learner, I honed in on a format that transcends language and draws in the user. To showcase the maps, I created the website shortly after in 2017. As it appears now, I have revamped the style.

Challenges we ran into

As an individual, I dare say it has been a challenge to create maps of such volume on my own! Having balanced my work on the project with full-time work, it certainly has required intense dedication and tenacity to keep it up. Given the scale of the maps that exist today, a challenge presents itself in creating content for each place - on to the next phase, then!

Accomplishments that we're proud of

As we all are, when I first started, I was younger. To be naïve, I don't think the true scale of the project was perceived when I set out. I can say I am proud of the accomplishment to continue on and improve my skillset. I learned an immeasurable amount about destinations across the world, writing, web design, and more. All while balancing a career in the travel industry, which has allowed me to go out there and "walk the walk", with these two legs carrying me to so many fascinating places.

What we learned

We are fortunate to be here. This planet is a source of inspiration that will never cease to reward the curious and eager-hearted among us. In the face of a monumental task, don't back down and believe in your vision. That's vital. To be understood, you must understand yourself.

What's next for Dots on Maps.

This project has been underway for a while now. The perfectionist in me is feeling content with where we are. Now I can shout about it. In the immediate future, I strive to share Dots on Maps with the world and open up a new chapter based on collaboration. Starting a dialogue with communities near and far, broadcasting the story of humans across the world. It is only right. They inspired me every day as I embarked on this journey. My vision sees the site emerge as an exciting new face in the travel industry, creating content that educates and motivates.

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