2. How can Google Earth become a part of the marketing strategy for these destinations? The official Cayman Islands Department of Tourism promotes Google Earth on its Destination marketing website (www.caymanislands.co.uk) to encourage potential tourists to view the many islands and tourist sites before travelling. Their Google Earth page leads with this information:

Take a trip to the Cayman Islands like never before—with Google Earth. With the power of Google Earth you can explore the three islands from home. Fly from dive site to dive site, zooming in tight or pulling back for a wider view. With satellite imagery, it’s the next best thing to being here in person, view beautiful beaches, attractions and dive sites. . . . Now you’re ready to immerse yourself in the Cayman Islands—Google Earth style.

From your aerial view, you’ll notice placemarks throughout the islands. To learn more, click on the different icons that represent beaches, attractions, and dive sites, and you’ll get interesting facts and photos that give you a taste of the experience.

The Cayman Islands are not alone in harnessing this technology. Robinson (2012)

notes a number of other destinations which have sought to harness Google Earth to introduce online viewers to their destinations.