When I was a teen, I used to be that kind of guy who is shy and reserved. Most of the time I was refugee in my books… those books about history, geography and languages. Was I a nerd? Not really, maybe just a bit.
But honestly, I did love maps and learning about new cultures… my Christmas present was a Globe. Simple. But I could be “playing” for hours looking, searching cities, learning capitals, finding new places. That was the spark that triggered the wish to connect with other people around the world.
English was my first foreign language. Europe was my first “far away” trip with the family.
I was young… and those two bricks set the fundations for my love to connect with citizens of the world.
I recall looking at a magazine to have a mail penfriend… yes! I did want to meet a complete stranger in the other side of the world to keep practicing my english and learn about their culture. Shy? No more! My friend was from Halifax, Canada (still is). That “old school” mailing experience was great! The expectation of waiting a letter from your friend in the other corner of the world… and that day you receive it. It was just magic!
So, long story, short… I became addictive to learn about new cultures, “surf” the map and travel thru language learning and in real life. Now I speak spanish, english, french, portuguese, some italian and learning japanese. :=)
So, what’s Google Maps to me? It’s the opportunity to highlight those little gems, secret places, to collaborate with people from all around the world in a multi-cultural environment… to travel without travelling and to connect with others to help just for fun.
My favorite reviews are about new places while travelling usually food places and hotels that I visit, matching my amateur travel blogging. I also like to shoot pictures and help others sharing them as I know an image could be more effective than 100 words. I like detailed comments and I look for perfection, suggesting updates - specially on timetables and webpages!
At the same time I feel I’m giving back for all the insights, tips and advice I have received from others thru the community and reviews in the maps.
I truly believe this is a one global network, a one global connection to reunite we all, the citizens of the world.
And… I love it!