Importing Locations from KML Files

If you have saved locations in Google Maps or Google Earth, you can bulk import them into BetterSTR using KML files. This is much faster than adding locations one by one.

What is a KML File?

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is a file format used by Google Maps, Google Earth, and other mapping applications to store geographic data. It contains:

• Location names
• Coordinates (latitude/longitude)
• Descriptions
• Icons and styling

Exporting from Google Maps

1. Open Google Maps
2. Go to Your Places (menu icon > Your places)
3. Select the list you want to export
4. Click the three dots menu
5. Select Export to KML
6. Save the .kml file

Exporting from Google Earth

1. Open Google Earth
2. Select the folder containing your places
3. Right-click and choose Save Place As
4. Choose KML or KMZ format
5. Save the file

Importing into BetterSTR

Step 1: Access KML Import

1. Go to Map in the main menu
2. Click Import KML

Step 2: Upload Your File

1. Click Choose File
2. Select your .kml or .kmz file
3. Maximum file size: 5MB

Step 3: Assign to Property or Tag

Choose where the imported locations should appear:

• Show on All Guides - Locations appear everywhere
• Specific Property - Select from dropdown
• Tag-Based - Assign to a property tag

Step 4: Preview

Review the first 10 locations to verify the data looks correct:

• Location names
• Coordinates
• Descriptions

Step 5: Import

1. Click Import Locations
2. Watch the progress bar
3. Wait for completion confirmation

Automatic Icon Mapping

BetterSTR automatically converts Google Maps icons to FontAwesome equivalents:

Unmapped icons default to a location pin marker.

Color Extraction

If your KML file contains color styling, BetterSTR will attempt to extract and apply those colors to the imported markers.

After Import

Once imported, you can:

• Edit individual locations to refine details
• Change icons or colors
• Add personal recommendations in comments
• Reassign to different properties

Import Metadata

Each imported location stores:

• Source: "kml_import"
• Import date and time
• Original Google style reference

This helps you track which locations came from imports.

Tips for Best Results

Organize in Google Maps First

Create separate lists for different areas or categories before exporting.

Use Descriptive Names

Name your saved places clearly in Google Maps before export.

Check Coordinates

Verify a few locations after import to ensure accuracy.

Add Comments After Import

Personal recommendations and tips make locations more valuable to guests.