9 questions about your journey for Connect’s 9th birthday 🎉

[KarenVChin]

Happyyyy 9th Birthday Connect!!

Thanks for creating this post @Julie_A to get us thinking about how each of us found and joined this official global Local Guides online community.

I am game to answer these 9 questions!

1. Where are you from?

Born and raised in San Francisco, CA

2. When did you join Connect?

I believe I was invited by the Local Guides Team as a beta user in Summer (June, I believe) 2016.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

via email

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

In the early days of Connect, first couple of years, I was on Connect throughout the day everyday because it was my outlet to the world. I was pretty much homebound with my twins (born in 2016). It worked out that way because it was cool to meet Local Guides from all of the world, chat, and learned so much. Someone was always “on” 24/7.

Some of the Local Guides OGs that come to my mind (sorry if I didn’t mention you) were @ChamnanMuon @SanyaOdare @DavidTito @U-RoyEmeka @Sagir @AvelManansala @EmekaUlor @FaridTDF @StephenAbraham @OSAMA (EVERYONE knew Osama. He was always on no matter what time of day or night, everyday) @PaulPavlinovich @AdrianLunsong @HelloSamsonR @AnuradhaP @SalmaanN @FazeelUsmani @MahabubMunna @ErmesT. The OG of the OG was (and is) @iyudhi who become the first Connect Moderator in October 2016! Ivan was always the first to respond to Local Guides/Google Maps questions no matter day/night 24/7.

These days my life is much different. When I do check Connect it’s more sporadic and usually when I have rare moment to myself.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

YESSS to both! I really started hosting meet-ups during the Covid years because right before the Pandemic started, virtual meet-ups (that lovely Google Hangouts/Meets) technology came into play here on Connect.

It’s difficult for me to host in-person Local Guides meet-ups because of having a young family. Hosting virtual meet-ups is the perfect solution! My Local Guide BFF is @ErmesT. We hosted dozens of virtual meet-ups during those dark years for Local Guides who would join us to help them (and us) be sane, social, and the ability to share and be with like-minded people globally.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

I have too many favorite Connect moments! To keep it simple and group it as one moment, Connect is the place where I have met many Local Guides that I can and now have the courage to ask questions about their countries, cultures, holidays, languages, religions, art, food, plants/flowers, animals, etc. Connect has been my Wikipedia. This has lead me to have friends (you know who you are) from all over the world that I can easily text, that I hope to visit their countries one day.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

I’m greedy. There are two Connect features that I love:

1. Write and read Connect posts

• I can be a writer/author on Connect – I can write and share a post/photos/images in this community on a subject, interest, event, etc. that I’m interested or passionate about and directly respond to any comments or questions.

• The opportunity to read and ask questions from my fellow Local Guides regarding what they posts on Connect.

I have learned so much: Hindu and Muslim holidays, daily living, food, gardening, nature, tourist sites, and passion projects to name: @ErmesT’s Local Guides Clean the World, Accessibility issues throughout the world

2. Meet-ups
   Connect provides Local Guides with a platform to invite like-minded Local Guides to join them in-person or virtually to meet, learn, and share their passions.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

For virtual meet-ups, the ability to give us up to two hours to host and record a meet-up for free. Currently, Google Meets is free for the first 60 minutes (no recording capabilities). After that, one has to pay for a Google Workspace or Google One plan to get more.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

My schedule will be opening in the Fall. I have a list of virtual meet-ups that @ErmesT and I have been planning this year to host.

Local Guides, we hope you can join us. Stay tuned!

Cheers,

Karen

[TusharSuradkar]

Excellent recap of 9 years @Shrut19 ताई

You seem to have attended meetups in most cities in India, which is fabulous
I also appear in several meetups - great collection of photos, great memories.

या वर्षी accessiblity आणि sustainability या गोष्टींवर भर देणार असल्याचे वाचून आनंद वाटला
या उपक्रमांसाठी आणि पुढील वाटचालींसाठी शुभेच्छा

[Md.Aminul-Islam]

Really thanks @Julie_A
Here are my answers:

1. Where are you from?

I am from Rangpur Kurigram, Bangladesh

2. When did you join Connect?

I joined this beautiful community in 2024.

3. How did you first learn about Connect?

I first learned about Connect from the Bangladesh Local Guide community.

4. What time of day/week do you prefer to find out what’s new on Connect?

I don’t have a specific time to come to the Connect forum, I take time out from work to come to Connect.

5. Have you attended or organized any meet-ups on Connect?

Yes, I have attended more than 34 meet-ups organized by Bangladesh Local Guide both online and offline. In 2024, I got the opportunity to organize my own meet-up.

6. What is your favorite moment on Connect?

My favorite moment on Connect was when I got my first Connect Challenge winner badge. That I will never forget. Since then I have always tried to participate in as many Connect Challenges as possible.

7. Tell us about one of your favorite Connect features?

I love new topics, and the new “Meet-ups” board makes it easy to add or register for new meet-ups without any hassle.

8. If possible, would you add a feature to Connect?

I would like to see an option on Connect where we can see all the local guides in a specific area or city or country based on our Connect profile location.

9. Tell us about one thing you plan to share or do on Connect this year?

This year I want to visit as many local historical sites as possible and share them with everyone through Local Guides Connect.

[mrinmoiHossain]

1. Where are you from? - Dhaka, Bangladesh
2. When did you join Connect? - As far as I remember, it was October 26, 2019.
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? - I remember it was a meetup organized by a Local Guides member.
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect? - Most likely in the morning, evening and at night before going to sleep.
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? - Yes, I’ve attended several meetups on Connect, some were in person while others were virtual.
6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect? - I think that was when some of my posts were featured.
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. - “Search” to gain more insight about the place before traveling.
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? - Personalized saved posts categorized by country and city.
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. - I want to travel to new places, share the information with others about Local Guide and organize meetups around those experiences.

[Julietezego]

1. Where are you from? Answer; Nigeria.

2. When did you join Connect? Answer; 2019

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? Answer; I attended a conference in Owerri after that, @emekaulor posted the Nigerian local guides group chat and invited us to join if interested. I joined without knowing what it’s all about but just wanted to explore.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?; Monday morning

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? Answer; I have attended various in-person and virtual meetups. Also, I have hosted more than 5 in-person/virtual meetups since I joined connect.
   

   

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?; Answer; Reading about different cultures and their food.
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. Answer; Meetup invites
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? To see posts from various regions.
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. Answer; I will add 9 women led businesses on the map.

[Shrut19]

नमस्कार
@TusharSuradkar दा,
आपले एकत्रित मिट अप व फोटो हे सुंदर आठवणी आहेत फोटो कलेक्शन व शुभेच्छांसाठि धन्यवाद
आणि
हो नक्कीच मी एक्सेसीबिलिटि, व सस्टेनेबल हे विषयी या पुढिल वर्ष प्रयत्नशील आहे.

[aditya.kalkur]

Firstly, I just can’t believe that it’s been 9 Long years to LG Connect. Feels like yesterday when we first started it.

I initially started my journey as a blogger, having my website and writing articles. That’s what made me write everything on Google Maps, and then brought me here on Connect. But ever since the tech evolved, I moved from being a Blogger to being an Influencer. Articles turned into Creatives and short-form Videos. This slowly drifted my focus from writing long articles to creating engaging videos. However, that did not stop me from reviewing places on Google Maps. As giving back to the community and helping the community was still P0. However, it did reduce my time here at Connect.
That being said, here are my 9 yays

1. Where are you from?

• Coming all the way from the Garden City of Bharat, Bengaluru(formerly Bangalore)

2. When did you join Connect?

• Back in 2017. Then applied for Connect Live 2018, Connect Live 2019 and Connect Live 2020.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

• It’s been so long, I don’t recollect coming here. I guess it was through an email from Connect? I do remember reviewing my First place on maps, though

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

• Active on all the WhatsApp groups of Indian LGs. I have constantly kept myself active there. However, my frequency of visits here was low

6. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

• Yes, my very first meet-up back in 2020. A food walk. It was my first one and I still remember it. Was accompanied by 4 other LGs.

7. What’s your favourite moment on Connect?

• My favourite moment ever on Connect is back in 2018, when the applications for Connect Live 2018 were open. I never knew that Connect Live would make me, would drive me to create an application video across Bangalore. This also kinda played a pivotal role in pushing me to create my first-ever video, and then this itself opened me to continue it.

8. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

• The one thing, but the most important feature about Connect that I love is probably the “Meet-Ups”, The LG community is so strong, tied up, having each others back, bonding over not just here, but outside, through Meet ups, virtual connects, whatsapp and so on, that bond thats set in, that unity, is all thanks to “meet-Ups”

9. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

• Maybe have a more simplified view, and the ease of creating subgroups, for us to ensure local guides have a separate section, say related to Bengaluru, a mini Bengaluru forum to ensure we have relevant posts of this locality here?

10. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

• Will probably try to be a little more active. That’s my goal. Let’s aim for it. Would bring back the world I explore and see on Instagram and Google Maps, here on Connect.

Warm Regards,
Aditya | Bakasura Forever

[ErmesT]

Hi @Julie_A
Thank you for this great post.

1. Where are you from?
   Treviso, Italy. The city of Tiramisù and Prosecco

2. When did you join Connect?
   September 20, 2016

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
   I was introduced to Connect by a Local Guide. I was posting online because I wanted to share with Google Maps my idea about some action to take for the earthquake in central Italy. He sent me to a new Community, created just a couple of months earlier. So I did. I knocked on Google’s door, and Google opened the door for me. The video I used to introduce myself was very naive. I was very naive in the world of Google Maps and communities. But I knocked, the door was opened, and here I am.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
   I check what’s new in Connect several time per day almost every day. I don’t have a fixed time but frequently I am in Connect early in the morning and before to go to sleep.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
   Yes, I’ve attended several meet-ups, the first one on Dec. 6, 2016, for Google Volunteers day, and I have hosted several In-Person meet-ups. During the Covid-19 pandemic, my “partner in crime” @KarenVChin and I hosted virtual meetups almost weekly, to keep the community together during those terrible months. More meet-ups will come soon.
   

   

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
   This is definitely the hardest question. There are so many moments that are indelibly etched in my heart, from the first reply to my first post, to my first invitation to a Google event, to when I started meeting other Local Guides in person, to when I was invited as a panelist at an official Google Earth event. So it’s not easy, but if I had to choose: when I started collaborating with @DavidTito for #LocalGuidesCleanTheWorld

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
   It would be easier to ask myself if there’s a feature I don’t love. I don’t like using Connect as a social media platform to celebrate every little milestone. As a Level 10 with over 1.5 million points and over 90,000 roads added to Maps, I could spend my days writing topics about this. But I don’t like doing it. However, I understand that it can be a useful channel for increasing people’s self-esteem and sense of community, so I accept it.
   I enjoy reading stories that teach me and help me understand countries, cultures, and religions different from my own. Connect makes me feel like a “citizen of the world.” And I like writing, describing my places, so that everyone can feel like a “citizen in my own home.”

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
   The new Connect is a much more advanced platform than the previous one, and uploading media has been made much easier. However, I miss the ability to see (in a section of my profile) all the images I’ve posted to the community.
   In addition:
   I would like to be able to send, with a single click, a message to all the people that is attending one of my meet-up.
   Shared work: I would like to have the ability to add a co-host for meet-ups, and a co-author for some of my posts. Many times I work together with other Local Guides, especially with Karen, and I think it would be nice to see both profiles near the header of the post / meet-up

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
   More virtual meet-ups, this is for sure, and I am working to some post. I guess some more stories from Flat Stanley will come too

[curatorofmemory]

Where are you from?
I am Level 9 LG from Ghaziabad, India.

When did you join Connect?
Even though I joined as LG on Google Maps in 2023, I joined the Connect only in May 2025. Strangely I was not even aware of this platform all these years! However, in these three months I have been very active and awarded 11 badges. I have 13 followers and written 67 posts.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
A random search on Google for Meetups led me to discovering Delhi LG Meetup in June and I immediately joined the community

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Generally, it is early morning after I come back from the Gym or my morning walk. I am quite a social media friendly person with online presence on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Goodreads, Trip Advisor and now Connect

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
I am not a great fan of Virtual meet ups even though my very first meet up was a virtual one hosted by @SharmaKK My first in person meetup was the Delhi meet up hosted by @ShreyaMusings. I am hosting my first meet up on 2nd August.

First ever meet up in Tirupati- The land of Richest temple in the world

What is your favourite moment on Connect?
My favourite moment was when I received my first Connect Challenge Winner badge

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
It allows us to interact with people coming from different cultures. The community is very broad based and friendly.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
A new badge – Globe trotter or Passport badge which can be awarded to LGs contributing for more than five or six countries.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I am going to focus on my initiative #Sustainabilityin action wherein I am showcasing actions and initiatives by people in India for a more sustainable world.

Sustianability in Action

[TusharSuradkar]

Hi @Julie_A

Here are my responses:

1. Where are you from?

I live in Pune, a city of 7 hills and 7 lakes, well-renowned for the automobile industry and a top destination for learning and education in India.

2. When did you join Connect?

I joined Connect in ‘March 2020’.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

Via ‘email’, when I reach level 5 on Google Maps.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

At regular intervals from 10 am and 10 pm

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

Yes, I have hosted over 80 meetups so far and am awaiting ‘Meetup Champion’ recognition.

Also, I have attended over 150 meetups in 12 cities in India and globally.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

In one of my posts, the Google Moderator asked if a particular photo was really taken by me. It was so good that it probably appeared to be copied from somewhere else I take this as a compliment.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

I love the ‘rich text editor’ that allows HTML tags and other formatting to be used for creating impressive posts on Connect.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

‘Macros’ is a feature that will make life easy for an active participant like me.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

Continue to ‘build the community’ via meetups and challenges.

[Hashi_sho]

@Julie_A

Where are you from?
I’m from Kerala, India — a land known for its greenery, backwaters, and warm-hearted people.

When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect in September 28th 2024, eager to share my local experiences and learn from other Local Guides around the world.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I discovered Connect through the Google Maps app while exploring the Local Guides program and got curious to explore the community.

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I usually check Connect during weekends or in the evenings when I have free time to read posts and interact with fellow Local Guides.

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Not yet, but I’m looking forward to participating in one soon — especially a local meet-up in Kerala or even hosting a small guide walk.

What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
One of my favorite moments was getting my post featured and receiving encouragement from senior Local Guides around the globe.

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I really love the “Introduce Yourself” monthly thread — it helps me connect with new members and understand diverse cultures and contributions.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
If I could, I’d add a language filter or auto-translate feature to help Guides from different regions understand and engage more easily.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, I’m planning to share more photo essays of unexplored destinations in Kerala and write helpful travel guides for budget travelers.

[MonirHB]

Where are you from?
Answer: Naraynganj, Bangladesh.

When did you join Connect?
Answer: I joined this forum may be 2019.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
Answer: From Bangladesh Local Guides facebook community (Fruits Meet up).

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Answer: From Saturday to Thursday office hour (10am to 5/6pm) & others at night local time.

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Answer: I’d attend meet-up on connect a few time online.

What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
Answer: When I got a new badge it’s favorite moment.

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
Answer: Follow any one & sent message.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
Answer: If it use easily like facebook platform***.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
Answer: This year, I’m trying to engage more time with connect. And best wish for connect platform.

[MarcoDavoli]

Hello @Julie_A ,

Thank you for this opportunity.
I’d like to express my gratitude to the entire “Googlers” team for your unwavering support over the years.
I also want to acknowledge the invaluable contributions made by the community members on Connect and through our highly regarded forum.
These volunteers are dedicated to providing their best efforts, prioritizing quality over quantity, and actively contributing to the growth of both Google Maps and Connect.

To all of you and the exceptional community, I extend my sincere gratitude for your unwavering support.

Here my answers

Where are you from?
I’m from Italy, splitting my time between Milano in winter and Sardinia in summer.

When did you join Connect?
I believe it was about six years ago.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I started using Google Maps shortly after its initial presentation to the world, but I began contributing much later. When I realized I could help others with my contributions, I decided to do my best, which led me to join Connect to “learn from.” That was a great idea! I was, and still am, fortunate to have met many people willing to share their knowledge. I quickly understood that Connect was a valuable place to learn and, eventually, share my own insights.

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I have a quick look almost every day.

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Oh yes, meet-ups are a great way to meet wonderful people and exchange information and ideas. I’ve actively attended many different meet-ups.

What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
There are so many moments that make my experience with Connect great and pleasant. My personal reward, if I can call it that, is when you’re able to establish good connections with others. It’s truly rewarding when you’re mentioned or called upon to support other Local Guides. In those moments, you understand that what you’re doing is making a real impact. Some special moments create an even greater sensation, like being mentioned by Googlers and Google directly. I’m still excited about the opportunity Google gave me to promote the Local Guide program with a fantastic video.

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
After so many years, Connect is a great platform that addresses almost all the needs of Local Guides. I particularly love one of its many “underrated” and “underused” functions: Search. It is extremely powerful. You can find old posts just by remembering a few keywords. For instance, I was able to retrieve an old post about an issue with a bike lane near a lake.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
The option to create a group. I understand why this hasn’t been implemented, but in some cases, Local Guides are forced to create groups outside of Connect to discuss specific projects or activities. For example, during this year’s TRAC Campaign, the three leaders of the different teams were heavily involved in updating their groups, supporting them, and inspiring teammates. If you have more than 30 members, you cannot easily create a group email. A “Group feature” could potentially be monitored by a Googler or be a scheduled group. This is truly a feature I would love to see implemented.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I’d like to work on promoting “Quality vs. Quantity.” Too many Local Guides are focused on reaching a higher level, adding photos, reviews, or other contributions simply for the sake of increasing their points. There are too many posts about “new badges,” “recognition points,” “levels,” or anything that shows an individual’s status. We are all volunteers; we love what we do, and we don’t ask for anything in return. Maintaining a low profile is often better because it means you are satisfied and genuinely doing your best. Recognition, rewards, and badges will come naturally later.

Thanks
Take care and Enjoy

Marco

[Sagarkanherkar]

Happy 9 Years of Connect!

Hi everyone, I’m Sagar Kanherkar from Kalyan, Mumbai (Maharashtra, India). I’m excited to join the celebration and play “9 questions for Connect’s 9th birthday”. Here are my answers:

1. Where are you from?
I’m from Kalyan, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

2. When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect in October 2022.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I got to know about Connect from Ms. Shruti Marjrekar.id @Shrut19.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Usually, I visit Connect during the afternoon (between 1 PM and 1:30 PM) on weekdays, but not daily.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes!
I’ve hosted 6 meet-ups on topics like:

• Empowering Local Businesses this Diwali – Virtual Meetup for Local Guides
• What’s New in Connect? Virtual Meetup
• Tripurari Purnima Celebration at Durgadi Fort, Kalyan
• Let’s Discuss Your Achievements and Badge Stories!
• Meetup Grand Inauguration of Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Temple (Shaktipeeth)
• Katra Market Meetup – Explore & Map with Local Guides

I’ve also joined in-person meet-ups at:

• WAW Mumbai 2023 meetup was an incredible experience for me
• Local Guides Photo Walk Meet Up : Kanheri Caves and Sanjay Gandhi National Park
• Diamond City Surat Calling… A Journey of Exploration and Friendship in Surat..
• Photowalk, Meet and Greet, Accessibility Check Meet-up at Grand Central Park - Mumbai
• Pune Exploring Pune’s Heritage: A Journey of Accessibility and Cultural Preservation
• Pune Celebrating 50 Meetups in 2024 - India Local Guides
• Local guides Meet and Greet at Shegaon
• Golden Jubilee Meet-up at Rani ki Vav, Patan
• and many virtually

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
I love seeing other Local Guides’ achievements and also enjoy meeting them in person during meet-ups.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I like that Connect focuses only on Google Maps-related content like food, travel, and helpful contributions. It’s different from social media, where everything is mixed.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
Earlier, I could easily check Local Guides’ Connect profiles. But now, if I visit someone’s profile from Google Maps, I can’t find a link to their Connect profile. I would love to see Google Maps and Connect profiles integrated, so it’s easier to follow and connect with fellow Local Guides.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I want to share long videos, but currently, Connect doesn’t allow that. I hope this feature will be available in the future!

---

I joined Google Maps in April 2016 after visiting Pratapgad Fort, where I posted my first review. Now I’m a Level 9 Local Guide, and I always try to share my real experiences—both on Google Maps and Connect.

Thanks again to the Local Guides team and the Connect community for creating such a meaningful space. Looking forward to more learning, sharing, and celebrating together!

[iyudhi]

Great initiative @Julie_A ! Below are my answers:

1. Where are you from? I’m originally from Jakarta, Indonesia. Spent a good part of my life living in San Francisco bay area, USA. Currently residing in Melbourne, Australia

2. When did you join Connect? 2016. I was in fact one of the early beta testers for Local Guides Connect

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? It’s been so long I honestly don’t remember anymore. Most likely it’s through the invitation to beta test the platform.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect? No set schedule. Just whenever I’m bored at work (psst don’t tell my manager please)

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? Yes I have. I’ve had the pleasure attending and hosting a meet up on Connect.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect? I’ve said this multiple times on several occassions, but my favorite moments are when I’m able to interact with other Local Guides from all over the world and being able to meet some of them in person on several occassions. With Local Guides, wherever you go, you’ll never be alone!

One particular occassion I remember was back in 2016 when I was visiting Sapporo. A Local Guide that I’ve met through Connect took me to a sushi shop in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. The signs, menu, everything was in Japanese so it would be very difficult for me to go by myself. The sushi was very inexpensive and some of the best sushi I’ve ever had in my life. I would never be able to experience this without Local Guides and Connect. I wrote a Connect post about it but looks like it got lost during the migration.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. I really like the Google Maps tips & tricks board since it allows us to share tips and tricks, and also help each other with anything related to Local Guides and Google Maps.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? I would love an easier way to find each other. Right now we’re able to tag our post with a country, but that’s still too broad. It would be awesome if I’m visiting a certain place, and there’s an easy/direct way to reach out to Local Guides in the area, either to get suggestions, or to meet up in person.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. I would like to share more posts about my Local Guides activity while also including tips and tricks that’s not too general. I would also like to share my experience interacting with other Local Guides during my journey.

[SayliWalve]

Greatly appreciated @Julie_A for the 9 questions on connects 9th birthday
Happy Birthday to our beloved Connect!

Here’s my response:

Where are you from?
I’m from Thane, Maharashtra, India

When did you join Connect?
I joined in July 2024.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I came across a community link in one of the emails I received after contributing on Google Maps.

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Mostly in the evenings or during weekends when I have more time to engage with posts and discussions.

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes, I’ve hosted one and attended a few virtual meet-ups, including two in-person meet-ups.

What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
Local guides appreciating my writing skills and photography sometimes. Also connecting with like-minded individuals who share a common passion has been truly uplifting.

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I enjoy writing and photography, so I love the ability to write posts and tell the story of a place through pictures. It’s a creative and expressive outlet for me.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I’d love for posts, travel stories, and cultural insights to be visible globally, not limited by country selection. It would help us learn more from each other and discover diverse experiences.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I’m planning to share some unique places from my native town and I’m also excited to host a well-planned meet-up soon!

[SwetaDhondoo]

Nice topic @Julie_A Thank you @RosyKohli ji for sharing the post

Congratulations to everyone who keeps the community spirit alive!
Kudos to each of you for being part of this journey and helping build something truly meaningful!

1. Where are you from?

I’m from Rose-Hill, Mauritius Island

2. When did you join Connect?

I joined in October 2023, so it’s been about three wonderful years!

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

I was already contributing to Google Maps back in 2019. Later on, my LG mentor, @KashifMisidia (a familiar name to many here!), introduced me to Connect. He encouraged me to join but it took me some time. Thanks to him, I found my way into this amazing community. Thanks again for always being so supportive and encouraging @KashifMisidia

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

Usually on Friday or Saturday evenings; it’s the perfect way unwind and explore!

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

I’ve participated in 2 meet-ups so far, and I hope to join more! I recently mentioned to @RosyKohli ji that time zones can be tricky, and she kindly agreed to notify me Thank you again, @RosyKohli ji

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

One of my proudest moments was about my Accessibility Champion title in March 2024. I felt truly honored and humbled
And more recently, in July 2025, I received my first-ever invitation to ConnectLIVE:Bangalore! I was thrilled beyond words and can’t wait to meet fellow Local Guides in person. Counting down the days to India

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

I love how Connect brings people together. There’s something really special about the way ideas and support flow so openly. One of my favorite features is Google Maps Contribution Stories. They’re not just inspiring, they often read like travel diaries, packed with global insights.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

I’d love a gentle reminder system for meet-ups, maybe a notification 8 hours before, and another 2 hours ahead. With the current ‘Yes’ confirmation configuration, emails accumulate without a clear notification for actual meet-ups, making it challenging to keep track of scheduling.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

I’m planning to write a few articles that showcase my paradise island, Mauritius. From stunning places to vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful festivals, I want to spark curiosity and inspire more visits. I’m also excited to attend Connect Live Bangalore, where I’ll get a chance to share my ideas, learn from others, and connect directly with the Local Guides team

Looking forward to meeting you all Till then..

Cheerz
Sweta from Mauritius
Accessibility Champion♿ Sweta Dhondoo | Google Maps | | Youtube

[ShreyaMusings]

Hi Julia,

Thank you for giving me this opportunity to express my journey on Connect.

1. Where are you from? - I am from Lucknow but settled in New Delhi, India

2. When did you join Connect? - I joined Connect on May 12, 2019. I was wandering in my thoughts, and suddenly thought of checking what Connect is.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? I heard about Connect when I was working with an MNC. There, I saw people posting reviews and photos, just as I loved to do, but they were exploring the Connect platform and told me to check my email if I had ever received an invitation to join Connect. To my surprise, I got an email and started exploring and reading the guidelines.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
   Every day, to be honest as I spend 50% of my day trying to learn more on Connect.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? - Oh yes, I have hosted more than 10 meetups in New Delhi, 1 India Mega Meetup in New Delhi, and attended more than 15 meetups of fellow local guides in New Delhi.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect? - Engaging with LGs around the world despite the borders and politics, and making our Connect a better place, and connecting with everyone on challenges and meetups online, if not offline.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. - Meet-ups help us connect with like-minded people across the Globe. I love the feature of creating Hybrid, in-person, and virtual meet-ups to stay connected and also to learn through challenges.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? - To increase the size of videos we can upload to a post, right now it’s 16mb or less, which is less than 8 seconds. I mostly take longer videos, so if this file size could be increased, it would be very helpful not only for me but for everyone.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. - Participate in more state challenges, start an initiative, or do more to spread awareness on accessibility and sustainability by planning to initiate a series on sustainability and Inclusivity, and earn my badge for SDG Champion.

Thank you once again.

[Ssiddharth2000]

Wow such an incredible and inspiring journey, congratulations @ShreyaMusings Keep contributing and spreading this bonhomie of friendship across the world of LGs and beyond.

[FalguniP]

This is Awesome @Julie_A
it is such an incredible community and I am so grateful to be a part of it !

Where are you from?
I’m originally from Mumbai, India, a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious food. Currently, I’m living in Vancouver, BC, where I’m enjoying the stunning natural scenery and diverse community.

When did you join Connect?

I joined Local Guides Connect 9th January, 2020, within my first month, I attended and hosted a meet-up, which was a wonderful experience. I was excited to be part of such a supportive and enthusiastic community.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

I always looked at reviews from others on the map and wondered how I could find and connect with them. Searching for Local Guides led me to discover Local Guides Connect. I wrote my first post there, and @IshantHP_ig was the very first person to welcome me and introduce me to the community.

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

I usually check Connect multiple times a week, mostly in the evenings or mid-mornings. I enjoy reading posts from others, looking at photos shared by fellow Local Guides, and learning from their experiences.

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

Yes, I have both attended and hosted several meet-ups. My first meet-up was on 8th February 2020 at the Kala Ghoda Art Festival in Mumbai with Local Guides @Shrut19 and @Shreeya99. Just two days later, on 10th February, I hosted my first knowledge-sharing meet-up with @travellerG, where I connected with amazing Local Guides.

During the lockdown, I hosted several virtual meet-ups focusing on supporting small businesses and sharing food experiences. I also attended many virtual events like the Accessibility meet-up by @Tejal, knowledge-sharing sessions by @NareshDarji, the State Challenge, TRAC meet-ups, Celebration meet-ups, and hybrid meet-ups. One of my most memorable moments was the community live meet-up hosted by the moderators. I also loved participating in the photography workshop by Paul, joining Steve’s virtual tours, and attending Luigi’s pasta meet-up. These events were not only fun and inspiring but also helped me connect with Local Guides from different places and build great friendships.
I love Hosting Food Crawl Meet ups
After moving to Canada, I hosted my first small business photo walk meet-up, which was a fantastic way to explore the community and connect locally.
I love meeting new local guides who are visiting my city it is so exciting to finally see them in person

What’s your favourite moment on Connect?

One of my favourite moments was being selected as the ambassador for the Foodie Challenge on Google Maps. I was also honored to be recognized as a Local Business Champion and featured as a Guiding Star in 2020 for my efforts in supporting small businesses during the pandemic. These recognitions meant a lot to me and truly motivated me to continue contributing and helping others through the Local Guides program.
Currently I enjoy participating in Challenges by Googler’s where we we are awarded with cute badges

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

One Connect feature I really love is the ability to share posts in various categories. It allows us to express ourselves and share experiences beyond just reviews and photos on Google Maps. I also really enjoy the new meet-up creation layout it’s much easier to use and makes organizing or joining meet-ups more fun and engaging.
I also love that now we can add a cover photo to our profile and change our profile photos.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

If I could add one feature to Connect, it would be a Photo Gallery Showcase a visual gallery highlighting the best photos shared in posts across all categories. It would be a great source of inspiration, especially for those who love photography, travel, or food. This feature would celebrate creativity and help us discover beautiful places and moments captured by fellow Local Guides.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

This year, I’m planning to continue my series that highlights incredible women Local Guides in our community and celebrates their contributions. I’ve also created a Local Guides community for Canada, and I’m working towards making it just as amazing and active as other communities around the world. I aim to host and attend more meet-ups, share ideas and knowledge, and start meaningful initiatives that create a positive impact within the Local Guides family.