It feels like centuries! And I would not be surprised that many young fellows have never used a foldable map.
Is quite easy to think that we have lived with Google Maps since the beginning of time, but it’s been just a few years since we start having access everywhere and at any time to this amazing service. I remember, some time ago, traveling through Europe with my friends and fighting for the foldable map and being the one to guide. Now, you can simply ask Google Maps for a budget restaurant in any tiny town and you will be hit with tons of data that was scrapped thru the amazing community of local guides.
When used in your own city or town, Maps is just convenient. It has become a commodity. Sometimes is hard to think about how we were able to live without it, but in my opinion, when Maps really shine is when traveling.
I won’t lie, there’s some charm on traveling and being with a Frommer’s guide on one hand and a foldable map in the pocket, you really feel the adventure that way, but in the same way, having at hand the wisdom of thousands of local guides can make your trip really special. Nowadays you can explore in a completely different way the unknown city you are traveling to because you are discovering through the eyes of the people that have experienced it before.
You can be in Nara and quickly find an amazing Ramen or you could be in Kudna-Hora and discover the best local medieval restaurant in town (This actually happened!). Or you can be suffering the worst flu in Calgary and be able to find the closest drugstore to your Airbnb.
Medieval restaurant in Kudna Hora
That is why I love Google Local Guides. With local guides, you can discover places and landmarks that otherwise would stay hidden. In the same way, this is the same reason why I try to share information in Local Guides. Knowing that someone else will be enjoying that restaurant that you love, or will avoid that nasty tourist trap can be rewarding.
Maybe I will try just for fun, to find my way in my next trip with my old friend the foldable map, but one thing is clear for me, the best dinner, museums, shops, and landmark will be provided by Local Guides!
Google Local Guides Community, keep sharing!