Navigating the world can be difficult, and so can navigating your neighborhood. Thanks to Google Local Guides though, I’ve been able to transform how I engage in the world around me, and celebrate some of my favorite destinations with those who want to explore in my footsteps ,with a little help along the way; where to eat, where to ride, and where to play.
Way back in the 1980’s, I helped my mom and dad navigate with a paper road map, seeking out destinations from a legend of rest stops and landmarks. Some of the information provided was older than I was, and there was nowhere for a rating to be found, unless it was scribbled on a menu, or the written on the wall of a bathroom stall once we were too far in to look back.
With Google Maps, I help take the mystery out or when an establishment is open; whether or not they are open on a holiday; whether or not they are handicap accessible, or LGBT friendly; and even if they are cash only or take credit cards. All of these details are otherwise a defeating reality to patrons and curious travelers who want to explore new places.
With Google Maps, I assist in posting pictures on menus and food items, seasonal hours of operation and the first date a business opens its doors. I can even submit all of the details that a small business owner would otherwise have living on a piece of paper taped to their door, or posted in their window- making them accessible to the world! I can post to Google Maps on foot, by bicycle, or by visiting by car- however I find my way to the places I love most.
Taking the time to update Google Maps is quick, easy, and is driven by the uptick of views of my photos as I have recently reached over 25,000,000 views! The challenge is never ending, the number of businesses that can be added, edited, and updated are growing day by day, so I don’t see a stop to my ceaseless hunger to add more!
