I like supporting independent businesses. Sharing my experiences of local independent businesses makes me happy. It is easier to find information about a big corporation but it is more difficult for a small local business to be noticed. I also like the personal side of their service. Generally, they still care about the service they provide so that customers will want to return again and again.
I really enjoy the feeling I get when I share my knowledge on Google map. It is a strong feeling of belonging to a community, being part of a very big family of virtual friends, helping each other to have positive experiences and giving each other advice.
Last week, a local electrician advised us to try “La Table de Norbert” a steak restaurant in Carcassonne, famous among the locals. We thought it was worth paying it a visit and it was a short walk from where we were staying. The restaurant is quirky, cosy and I can even say homely. On entering the owner / head chef at first came across as a little abrupt but as the evening progressed he went to each table to meet and greet all his guest and have a short chat. I was pleasantly surprised and changed my mind about the service. And the food was excellent too. This is a true example of why I prefer using local businesses.
Very often people write reviews when they are unhappy about a service or a product. While it is important to always be honest I believe it is as important to recognise the positive experiences. I always aim to be thorough in my description. Unfortunately, I don’t always remember to take a photo at the time of the experience.
One of the many reasons I love being a local guide is because the reviews I write are what I would like to read myself when I research a new restaurant or a local business
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