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Introduction
Leaderboards like the Points and Photo Views leaderboards regularly posted here on Connect, each look at a specific but different aspect of our Maps contributions. Based on various metrics, including the number of points and the number of views, the participants on these leaderboards are listed without giving any consideration to their respective country location.
However, it goes without saying, Local Guides in smaller countries or ones where there are significantly less guiding opportunities, such as Barbados, Cameroon and Rwanda, would have less chance of gaining enough points or photo views than those in larger countries such as the United States, Canada or UK and therefore, Local Guides in these smaller countries have less chance of getting onto leaderboards based strictly on points or photo views!
Local Heroes > Local Stories
The leaderboards in this post, are different because they specifically take into account the country location of the participating Local Guides and in this way, they give Local Guides from even the smallest countries (true local heroes) recognition and an opportunity to be seen as “stars” in their country, and you will see many are.
There are many great local stories on the Country leaderboards and this month they come from 82 different countries! If you’re a Local Hero and you’re not listed on the leaderboards or your country isn’t listed, then you and your country should be and you can make this happen by registering for participation. It’s simple to do, just hit this link. If you want to know more see this excellent How-to post by @AZ_2021 .
The Cover GIF
This being the last local stories post about local heroes, that is, the Local Guides by Country leaderboard post, with Christmas now fast approaching, I thought I’d jump in early before the joyous holiday really begins to unfold. Christmas is of course celebrated in many different ways around the globe.
In the snowy landscapes of Sweden, where Local Heroes like @Olofnh and @MBommeli do some heavy guiding, the celebration begins on December 13th with St. Lucia’s Day. Young girls dress in white robes adorned with candles, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. They sing traditional songs and serve saffron buns and ginger cookies to their families.
In Japan, where @YasumiKikuchi and @ttomu2 hit the ground hard guiding, Christmas is embraced with a twist. While it’s not a national holiday, the festive spirit is alive and well. Families often gather for a special meal of fried chicken, a tradition inspired by a successful marketing campaign by a popular fast-food chain. Illuminated Christmas displays and decorations light up the streets, creating a magical atmosphere.
Now in Italy, where Local Heroes and Leaderboard stars @Caverni and @AT_Rome are known to do some serious Local Guiding, the Christmas season extends to January 6th, when La Befana, a kind but eccentric old witch, delivers gifts to children. According to legend, she missed the opportunity to visit the baby Jesus, so she continues to search for him by delivering presents to children throughout the country.
Norwegian households like that of Local Heroes @JonBekkevoll and @Gulbrandsen have a quirky tradition of hiding brooms on Christmas Eve. It’s believed that witches and evil spirits come out on this night, and by hiding the brooms, families hope to prevent mischievous activities.
Heading south to my country Australia, where Local Heroes like @PennyChristie , @PaulPavlinovich and @IzzyOz do some serious local guiding, December marks the height of summer, Christmas is a beachy affair. Families may enjoy a barbecue on the sandy shores or have a picnic in the park. The iconic Christmas bush, with its red flowers, becomes a symbol of the season, adding a touch of festivity to the warm and sunny days.
In Mexico where Local Heroes @LightRich and @LaloPadilla arer heavy hitters on the Local Guide charts, the celebration begins on December 16th with Las Posadas, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Families go from house to house, singing and seeking lodging, culminating in a joyful feast. On Christmas Eve, a grand midnight Mass called “La Misa del Gallo” is held, followed by a feast featuring tamales, bacalao, and ponche.
These are just a few glimpses into the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions around the world. As the holiday season unfolds, people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate, sharing love, joy, and goodwill, regardless of the unique customs that make their celebrations special. No matter what way Christmas is celebrated, the spirit of Christmas continues to unite hearts across the globe, weaving a global tapestry of warmth and happiness. I know well that I’m early however, it is with this spirit in mind that I wish all you amazing Local Guides,
Best Wishes for a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
Argentina
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Bolivia
Brazil
Bulgaria
Cambodia
Cameroon
China
Colombia
Croatia
Cuba
Denmark
Dominican Republic
Egypt
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Jordan
Malaysia
Mexico
Morocco
Nepal
New Zealand
Nigeria
North Macedonia (formerly Macedonia)
Norway
Pakistan
Panama
Paraguay
Philippines
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Singapore
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Thailand
Turkey
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
United Kingdom (UK)
Vietnam
Yemen
Zambia
Argentina
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Bolivia
Brazil
Cameroon
Canada
Chile
China
Colombia
Cuba
Czechia
Denmark
Dominican Republic
Egypt
France
Georgia
Germany
Hong Kong
Hungary
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Malaysia
Morocco
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nigeria
North Macedonia (formerly Macedonia)
Pakistan
Panama
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Africa
Spain
Sri Lanka
Switzerland
Thailand
Turkey
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
United Kingdom (UK)
United States (USA)
Vietnam
