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Since version 3 locations in the system divided into 2 types: predefined locations and global locations. You may mix these types and choose between following locations modes on 'Settings/Miscellaneous/Locations settings' page:

• predefined locations disabled - users may enter any location as a text string;
• use only predefined locations - (recommended to use this mode) users will be able to choose locations in selectboxes during listings management;
• allow users to fill in any location - this enables both features, users are able to choose predefined or global locations, for example when user didn't find his location in selectboxes, he may enter location as a string;
• predefined locations drop boxes opened by default - both types enabled, but with priority of predefined locations;
• predefined locations drop boxes closed by default - both types enabled, but with priority of global locations;

Global Locations

Global locations means that users may fill in into text string field any location. This field will suggests and autocompletes location when google maps API key setted up. Suggested location will be geocoded after listing creation, this allows to search created listing using radius search option. Note that radius search option and autocomplete of 'Where?' search field available only when google maps API key setted up.

Predefined Locations Levels

First of all manage locations levels on 'Locations/Manage locations levels' page. By default 3 levels existed: Country, State and City. Note that locations levels is unlimited.

Locations items management looks like categories tree management using Drag & Drop method.

Labeled Predefined Locations

Bolded locations in the locations tree - these are labeled locations. Labeled locations are an important part of locations-based directory site. Site manager sets/unsets label on location - this location appears/disappears in 'Search in' navigation panel at the frontend of site. When one of such locations selected - will be shown listings those assigned with this location, others will be hidden and not available.

Locations Synchronization

'Synchronize locations' function compares already entered global locations in listings with existed predefined locations tree. This function adds absent predefined lolcations keeping its locations chain. For example:
user didn't find propper location for his listing and entered it into string field - 'Seattle, USA', it geocodes after listing creation and then when you use synchronization, the system adds new predefined location 'USA -> WA -> Seattle'. Later you may rename this location or assign it with another already existed location. Note that this function available only when google maps API key setted up.