The countdown is officially on! I am incredibly honored and excited to be part of the planning committee for the very first USA Local Guides Meetup in Key West, Florida, happening from June 4–7, 2026.
Being behind the scenes to help organize this landmark event has been a blast, but I can’t wait to get on the ground and experience it all with you. This isn’t just a meetup; it’s a chance for our community to make history in the Southernmost City!
What I’m Looking Forward To:
Connecting with the Community: The heart of being a Local Guide is the people. I’m eager to finally meet face-to-face, share mapping tips, and build lasting friendships with contributors from all over.
The Golden Hours: My camera is already packed! I’m planning to spend as much time as possible capturing the breathtaking Key West sunrises and sunsets. There’s no light quite like it in the world.
The Scenic Route: I’m capping off the trip with the iconic drive from Key West to Miami. Crossing the Seven Mile Bridge with the Atlantic on one side and the Gulf on the other is a photographer’s dream.
If you’ve been thinking about joining, click on the image below to register! before May 15th. Whether you’re a seasoned Local Guide or just starting your journey, we want you there to help us celebrate.
Dates: June 4–7, 2026
Location: Key West, FL
Details: Check out the official posts on Connect by our planning committee members for registration and itinerary info!
I know I’ll be standing right next to you when you take them, but I cannot wait to see the pictures you get from this trip. Your shots are always incredible, @jayasimha78.
The registrations keep rolling in! Can’t wait to see everyone soon!
This is going to be fun and wonderful @jayasimha78
Thank you for your hardwork, Planning Committee
If only I’m in The States, I would be very happy to join you all. Hopefully someday
Wishing all the best for the preparation to the meet-up day.
I don’t know how I missed this wonderful post, @jayasimha78 ! Sorry about that.
Looking forward to seeing you all in less than 2 weeks. Super excited!
Here’s what I am so eagerly looking forward to in Key West:
The people — the entire organizing team that I got the chance to work with so closely over the last few months, many of whom I have known for years.
The people — the Local Guides and their guests coming all the way from different parts of the USA, many of whom I will be meeting for the first time in my life.
The people — the locals, the six-toed cats, and the roosters/chickens of the island. I heard Key West is the Caribbean of the USA. I want to get a taste of that vibe.
The southernmost point of the USA, of course — so that I can take some pictures of us holding the buoy and show them off on social media.
The drive to and from Key West, undoubtedly. Speaking of that, thank you for offering to let me join you guys on the return trip. It will be one heck of a drive, for sure. Will I be allowed to drive a little too???
And last, but definitely not least, I am looking forward to visiting all those historic places and local attractions in my flip-flops while walking through Duval Street. I am way beyond excited. I truly don’t have words to express how I’m feeling right now.
Thank you for this beautiful post, Jay. Here we come, Key West. Stay salty!
