Alps Ski Information Layer in Google Earth.
Over the weekend (I think) Google released a new layer under the Gallery->Travel & Tourism layer folder called “Ski Resorts in the Alps“. The new layer was done by BergFex which provides ski information and reservation services. The new layer contains maps, current ski/snow conditions, and links to further descriptions, prices, lodging, and weather. The new layer is best used when you also turn on the Skiing layer found under the Points of Interest layer folder. As mentioned last year, Google added detailed lift and gondola maps for the Alps in the Skiing layer. I wish the US skiing destinations had detailed skiing information in the layers like this. BergFex has just shown how you can effectively provide information and also justify the cost by turning the layer into a revenue stream through reservations and other online ski business.
Below is a screenshot example showing both layers in action. The new layer is just placemarks of each destination (the icons indicate the status of each resort), but the placemark descriptions contain the details.
By Frank Taylor of Google Earth Blog. [Google Earth Blog]