I feel really lucky to have built my community through the Local Guides program! I am an avid cyclist in Seattle and love sharing my favorite destinations through my personal Google Maps. I have used input and reviews from other Local Guides to design rides and tours with my cycling friends, and it’s led me to make new friends along the way. Cyclists help one another out, so when I see in the reviews and check-ins that other people in the cycling community frequent a spot, I make sure to visit. Having good beta on what places are on our cycling route and what we can expect is so so helpful.
It makes me feel good to add information to Google Maps, and help people navigate a new place, or discover new things in their hometown. I remember what it was like being a newbie. When new people come to town I can simply share my map of favorites to suggest routes and destinations.