Traveller | Search Restaurants

The Problem

The goal was to build a straightforward app that could display restaurants on a map and in a list, allowing users to find places to eat within specified boundaries. I wanted to make it visually appealing and provide a smooth user experience, despite being a casual project.

The Solution

To bring this idea to life, I developed an app that combines several APIs and interactive elements:

1. Google Maps Integration: The app features a map interface using the Google Maps API, where restaurants are displayed as custom pins. This allowed me to customize the look and feel of the map and provide users with a more engaging experience.
2. Custom Pins and Map Boundaries: I added custom markers for each restaurant, making it easy for users to spot locations on the map. The app also supports map boundaries, so only restaurants within a specified area are shown, keeping the results relevant.
3. Multiple API Usage: I integrated data from both Google Maps and TripAdvisor APIs, providing users with additional details about each restaurant, such as ratings and reviews. This made the app more informative and useful for finding good places to eat.
4. Map and List View: Users can explore the restaurant options either by browsing the map or viewing a list, giving them flexibility in how they search for dining options.

Outcome

The restaurant finder app turned out to be a fun and functional project that demonstrated how multiple APIs can be combined to build interactive applications. While it wasn't a complex project, it allowed me to experiment with Google Maps and API integration in a practical context.

Key Takeaways

This project was an enjoyable way to learn more about working with maps and external APIs. It provided valuable experience in integrating multiple data sources and customizing map-based applications, skills that can be applied to more advanced projects in the future.