As a software engineer, I’ve had the privilege of speaking at conferences all over the world. As a local guide, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing so many incredible places across the world. Without Google Maps reviews, I wouldn’t be able to discover and share such incredible restaurants, sights, and more. The most interesting thing I’ve done as a local guide is visiting places around the globe based on reviews, then reviewing them myself!
In Melbourne, I spoke at a conference, ComponentsConf at Marvel Stadium of all places! Excitingly, I also had a bunch of extra time in Melbourne beyond the conference. It was my first time there and I had no clue what to do.
I was just surfing around Google Maps and what do you know, there’s a wildlife park nearby. Healesville Sanctuary, where you have the opportunity to meet incredible animals! Check it out - I met some dingoes and echidnas while visiting Healesville sanctuary!
Just wow. As an animal lover, my mind was completely blown. Healesville was amazing as described by everyone on Google Maps! Thanks to all the Local Guides out there who post, review, and help everyone find incredible places and experiences like this one!
I’m inspired by Local Guides everywhere and being a Local Guide myself, I love leaving reviews to help others! Another conference I spoke at was in Moscow - FrontendConf RU. It was my first time to Russia - what a process as an American visiting - but absolutely worth it. My partner and I went to an incredible bar/restaurant, Strelka, that is part of an equally incredible design school. Not only was the food amazing, the ambiance and decor was beautiful. We went twice. Lol.
After going twice, I knew that I had to leave a review. Strelka must be shared with the world! Especially adventurous Americans who head over to Russia. You can read my review of Strelka here!
These are just two short stories of the interesting places that I’ve experienced and shared through Local Guides. I have so, so many more and I continue this story every time I read or post a review on Google Maps. It’s been an awesome journey and I hope to continue it for years to come!