As a Google Local Guide, I take pride in leaving detailed reviews for places where I had a great experience. I hope that my reviews lead the people who are searching to try these places for themselves. I am currently a local guide at level 6 and have left quite a few reviews for many local businesses as well as larger, national chains. One thing you will never see me do however, is leave a review lower than 4 Stars. That doesn’t mean I have a problem with people who leave negative reviews. However, for me personally, I won’t tear down a local business with a negative review after a bad experience. Business owners are hard working people and nobody is perfect. If an experience of mine did not meet my expectations, I don’t feel that hurting their online presence is a good way to deal with it. They may have just been having an off night.
The thing I like to brag about the most on Google maps is the food that I have eaten. I wouldn’t call myself a “foodie” but I definitely love to eat. My reviews don’t dissect certain recipes or give Food Channel style critiques, but rather let people know the dish I enjoyed most and why it keeps me coming back. If I really enjoy a certain plate at a restaurant, I will go to Google to let other people know about it.
I have currently left positive reviews in 7 different countries and many states around the US. This year, I plan on adding Romania, France, and the city of Boston to that list. One of the things I love now about traveling is being able to share my positive experiences with other travelers. I plan on adding new cities, states, and countries to review every year. I hope that my positive reviews can help grow businesses in cities all around the world.