GeoVenture

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  main dashboard with the maps

Inspiration

The inspiration for GeoVenturer came from the desire to enhance how people interact with maps. We wanted to merge AI and geospatial technology to create a seamless, interactive, and engaging experience that would not only provide navigation but also assist users in discovering nearby places with real-time recommendations. The goal was to create a platform that combines utility, accessibility, and aesthetics, making mapping experiences both functional and enjoyable.

What it does

Interactive Map Features:

Allows users to explore their surroundings with dynamic maps. Add and manage custom markers on the map. Measure distances between points using a built-in measurement tool. Perform searches with the Google Places API for specific locations. AI-Powered Recommendations:

Leverages the Gemini API to provide real-time recommendations for nearby places based on the user's location. Includes text-to-speech (TTS) functionality to narrate the recommendations for accessibility. Flash Card Feature:

Displays recommendations in visually appealing, interactive flash cards. Flash cards provide a "Play" button to narrate information and a "View on Map" button to center the map on the recommended location. Modern User Interface:

Styled with Tailwind CSS to ensure a clean, responsive, and intuitive design.

How we built it

Tech Stack:

Vite: For fast development and builds. Google Maps API: For mapping, geolocation, and search functionality. Gemini API: For generating AI-powered recommendations. Tailwind CSS: For styling and responsive design. Netlify: For deployment. Process:

Frontend: Developed the user interface using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Integrated Tailwind CSS for a polished and responsive design. Mapping Features: Used Google Maps API to display interactive maps and advanced markers. Implemented geolocation for user-centric navigation. AI Integration: Integrated the Gemini API for personalized recommendations. Displayed AI results using flash cards styled with Tailwind CSS. Deployment: Configured the application for hosting on Netlify with environment variables for secure API key management.

Challenges we ran into

API Integration: Managing API keys securely and ensuring proper configuration for both Google Maps and Gemini APIs. Error Handling: Handling scenarios where location permissions are denied or API calls fail gracefully. Responsive Design: Designing a UI that remains functional and visually appealing across devices. Performance Optimization: Ensuring smooth map rendering and efficient loading of recommendations in real-time.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Successfully integrating advanced map features with AI recommendations. Developing a visually appealing flash card system for displaying recommendations. Creating a responsive and accessible interface using Tailwind CSS. Implementing robust error handling and fallback mechanisms to ensure smooth user experience.

What we learned

Mapping Technologies: Gained deep insights into Google Maps API capabilities, including geolocation, markers, and Places API. AI Integration: Learned how to effectively integrate external AI APIs like Gemini for real-time functionality. UI/UX Design: Understood the importance of designing intuitive, responsive, and accessible user interfaces. Deployment: Learned best practices for securely managing environment variables and deploying on Netlify.

What's next for GeoVenture

3D Maps Integration: Enhance the application by incorporating Google’s Photorealistic 3D Maps for a more immersive experience. Gamification: Add gamified elements such as badges or points for visiting recommended places. Social Features: Enable users to share their favorite locations and recommendations with friends. Advanced AI: Leverage AI to provide predictive recommendations based on user preferences and behavior. Mobile App: Extend GeoVenturer’s functionality to a native mobile application for enhanced portability.

Built With

• google-gemini
• google-maps
• tailwind
• vite.js