If someone asks me, what is the most impressive innovation in your life?
For my answer, I would say a smartphone and Google map application, because my life has been changed totally before and after.
Young children may not know a requirement for travel in the past, but it was necessary for our parents and drivers before smartphones era. Some people already guess it, and the answer is a map. From my memory, my parents always prepared maps for travel. After then, Mapquest came to us, but it was still uncomfortable, because we needed to print out a lot of papers, and a driver and a passenger always kept their eyes on maps.
As I mentioned, however, Google map with a smartphone has renovated our society and lives. Not only does it let us know where we want to go, but it also helps us to get a lot of information with real feedbacks from other users. From my memory, the app was not different from other map services at first, but it has been developed fast-paced.
I believe that one of Google map’s strong points is to understand and apply users’ feedbacks for the app as soon as possible with various data. Its Local Guides Connect also looks like a forum or agora to discuss our ideas and share experiences together. In addition, the system is compatible with various devices smoothly, and I think it is important for users to pick the app instead of other map applications. Stability of the app is another advantage.
Of course, Google map has more merits, but it is not only improved itself. Many users have built together for our communities, and their relationships are symbiotic. For example, people upload reviews or put comments on the app, and it serves a place for people what they need. Without the app, I could not able to travel well to find a route, a hotel, and avoid rush hours in attractions. I do not want to imagine there are no Google map services.
As a local guide, I would like to tell you about Seoul, South Korea, which is my hometown. Unfortunately, we have many regulations from the Korean Government due to a political issue, so I cannot use various services different from using in America or other countries; for instance, Google Earth is restricted. However, it has been changing continually, and I believe that someday it will be solved.
Creating this post, I remember my memory and pictures with Google Map all around the world: I got lost in Venice of Italy, I urgently needed to find accommodation when I missed a bus from Nice to Torino, and so on. Also, I was able to have the greatest moments with my family and friends. As I wrote here, I would like to say that our memories can be here forever.
Finally, I hope to say to professional local guides in the world. Like Truman in the Truman show, I don’t see you guys, but I hope to see you in November. “Good Afternoon, Good Evening, and Good Night.”
