Hello Local Guides!
As we approach the end of the year, I’ve been feeling a bit nostalgic. Before we step into 2026, I wanted to take a moment to look back at where it all began. Believe it or not, my first ever review was exactly 10 years ago, right when I joined this amazing program!
(This post is a more personal look at my early days. If you missed my reflection on how the platform has evolved over the last decade, you can read it here: My 10-Year Local Guide Journey and a Look at What Has Changed! )
My journey started in a place very far from home: The USA. Back then, I was just a traveler from the tropical heart of Indonesia, stepping into the American autumn for the first time. I remember it being so cold for me! Coming from a country where it’s “summer” all year round, that autumn breeze was a real shock to my system.
The Evolution of a Reviewer.
Looking back at that first review from a decade ago, I have to laugh a little. It was so simple, just a star rating, without a single word of description!
Even when I returned to Indonesia and started reviewing locally, my posts were very brief My First Review! It’s a reminder that we all start somewhere, and over the last 10 years, I’ve learned how much a few detailed sentences can actually help someone else.
The Struggle for Halal Food.
One of my biggest challenges during that US trip 10 years ago was finding Halal food. Back then, Google Maps data wasn’t as rich as it is today. Finding specific dietary options was a real struggle! I was so lucky and grateful that one of the Community Managers (CM) Ce Bella and Ko @iyudhi were kind enough to treat me to a delicious Halal meal. It was a moment of kindness that made a huge impression on me.
From USA to South Korea.
Fast forward to today, and the world feels so much more accessible. On my recent trip to South Korea, I could find Halal restaurants with just a few taps on my phone. The difference between 2015 and 2025 is truly incredible! (I’ll be sharing my South Korea Halal food stories in my next post, so stay tuned! :D)
As I celebrate a decade with Google Maps, I’m grateful for how this platform has evolved to help travelers like me.
I’d love to hear from you before the year ends: Do you remember your very first review from years ago? Was it a simple star rating like mine, or did you start with a long story? Let’s reminisce together in the comments!
inspiratif sekali kamu Riaaaa
