How and Why?
I can’t recall the exact moment it happened (it’s been a while already) but I’m quite sure it all started two years ago right after posting a review and picture of Cafe Bistro on Maps, which I also posted on all my social media such as Instagram and Facebook. People absolutely loved this picture and started asking me about this place. I then realized I was able to help others improve their experiences with my contributions and become a Local Guide.
identifier.html (768 KB)
What I Like
More than just help people to know places, the Local Guides Program means to me a way to help little business to be known, and this is the part I enjoy the most being an entrepreneur myself. From my point of view, this is the best way for a business to communicate with potential customers, and best of all: it is for free!!! Zero cost advertising!
And it is not only me being able to help other but also how other people’s contributionas are able to help me, since this has become a powerful and useful tool to me when I travel abroad. As an example, during my first trip to New York in 2018, I was able to visit places following reviews and contributions I found on Maps. I was even able to show my mother and sisters places they never heard of before… and they’ve been living in NYC for the last 20 years!!!
Bethesda Fountain, Central Park, New York.
Manhattan Skyline view from the Staten Island Ferry.
Meeting New People
Yes! By getting involved in the program I’ve also been able to connect with other Local Guides in my hometown which I enjoy to share experiences with. Hopefully, as I grow in the community I can also meet more people from around the world.
The Future
Very simple: my goal is to become a Level 10 Local Guide by the end of 2020. In the meantime, I’m getting more involved with my local community.
Finally, check out my list of 10 Most Amazing Parks While in New York list on Google Maps for interesting places to add to your travel wish list along the Big Apple.
Dave.-