the_information_nexus/travel/travel_maps.md

To build out an interactive and dynamic WPB Activity Guide using QGIS and JSON data management, we can create a process that makes updating, visualizing, and sharing information straightforward. Here’s how you can approach it:

Step 1: Data Structuring with JSON

First, structure all your data into a JSON format that can be easily imported into QGIS and used to generate maps. Here’s an example of how your data might be structured:

{
  "Activities": [
    {
      "Day": "Saturday, June 10th",
      "Activities": [
        {
          "Name": "Check-in at Ocean Pointe",
          "Type": "Accommodation",
          "Location": {"Latitude": 26.784, "Longitude": -80.040},
          "Description": "Arrive and check in at Ocean Pointe on Singer Island."
        },
        {
          "Name": "Dinner at Johnny's Longboats",
          "Type": "Dining",
          "Location": {"Latitude": 26.784, "Longitude": -80.035},
          "Description": "Enjoy seafood and American fare."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "Day": "Sunday, June 11th",
      "Activities": [
        {
          "Name": "Scuba Diving at Scuba Club",
          "Type": "Activity",
          "Location": {"Latitude": 26.775, "Longitude": -80.032},
          "Description": "First two-tank dive."
        },
        {
          "Name": "Shopping at Costco",
          "Type": "Shopping",
          "Location": {"Latitude": 26.730, "Longitude": -80.070},
          "Description": "Shopping at Costco for supplies."
        }
      ]
    }
  ]
}

Step 2: Import Data into QGIS

1. Convert JSON to GeoJSON: You may need to convert your JSON data into GeoJSON using a Python script if your data includes geographic coordinates. This makes it easier to import and manage in QGIS.

2. Create a New QGIS Project: Start by opening QGIS and creating a new project.

3. Import Data:

   • Use the "Layer" -> "Add Layer" -> "Add Vector Layer" option to import your GeoJSON data.
   • Ensure each activity type (Accommodation, Dining, Shopping, etc.) is imported as a separate layer for better control over visualization.

Step 3: Data Visualization

1. Style Layers: Use different icons and colors for each type of activity. For example, use a bed icon for accommodations, a fork and knife for dining, and a shopping cart for shopping areas.

2. Label Points: Apply labels to your points using the activity names to make the map informative at a glance.

3. Create Interactive Maps:

   • If you want to create an interactive web map, use the qgis2web plugin to export your project to web formats like Leaflet or Mapbox.

Step 4: Publishing and Sharing

1. Static Maps: Use the Print Layout in QGIS to design and export static maps for inclusion in printed guides or PDF documents.

2. Dynamic Online Maps: Use the exported web map from the qgis2web plugin to embed the map on your guide’s website, providing an interactive experience for users.

3. Updating the Data: When changes are needed or new data becomes available, update the JSON file, re-import it into QGIS, and repeat the visualization and publishing steps.

Step 5: Automation and Scripting

Consider automating parts of this process using Python scripts. For example:

• Data Conversion: Automate the conversion of JSON to GeoJSON.
• Regular Updates: Write scripts to fetch updated data from a database or API and regenerate the GeoJSON files automatically.

This approach ensures that your WPB Activity Guide is not only informative and easy to use but also visually engaging and interactive. Leveraging QGIS and JSON data management streamlines the process of updating and maintaining the guide, making it a dynamic resource for visitors.