I hate going into the crowds, where everybody goes. I love going into hidden gems, where the owners have made the space and place their very own expression, and they want to do something different. I want to experience something different.
So in life, in travels, even when I eat, I go off the beaten road, look out for hidden gems, and turn to Maps for hidden gems. I love placing those on the map for others to find. Experiencing them as a tourist, or a customer, for me, is also not enough. I am always looking to make real human relationships wherever I go. Thus, hidden gems, become friends!
Picture: Brooklyn Baker, in Bangkok, Thailand. Hidden Gem turned Friend
As a Daddy of 2 little girls, a lot of my travels, whether for work or pleasure is with them. We always look out for comfortable, family-friendly spots, with family-friendly owners. Some of them we may randomly find as we take an unplanned walk, and turn out to be a gem.
I believe the world is full of love and good people. Everywhere we go, whether it is 1.5 months in San Jose for my wife’s work, or 1 month in Da Nang, Vietnam, because it is her hometown, we look out for good spots, hidden gems, immortal memories to carry with us through this life.
Picture: Fortune Cookie from Panda Express, San Jose, California
My hope is to share some of these fantastic memories with everyone with Maps, and further the name of the hidden gem and help them out in my little way!
Picture: Us and the endless ocean, Da Nang, Vietnam (Near Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel)
Question: What drives you as a Local Guide to continue finding and listing local gems?
I would love to hear and connect with all of you. Come visit Singapore and we’ll meet up!