Hi! I’m Eric a local guide since 2 years. I’m from France and currently living in Taiwan. It’s been 8 years I left France to start exploring the world! I’m lucky enough to be able to travel and work anywhere in the world.
Getting lost when travelling
When I arrive in a new city, I like to go there without any plans, and discover it at my own pace. Something I especially enjoy is getting lost on my first day, without any phone. I believe this is the best way to explore a city, to get lost, taking a random bus without knowing where it goes. You’ll starts noticing small details and talk to people
How I use Google Maps
I usually start using Google maps in the second day. I might have hundred of “Want to go” places I have marked when talking with people. I then try to plan my stay around those marked places. Maps is also amazing to discover new restaurants or coffee shops. I love discovering local food, and know where locals eat. The explore option is phenomenal for this, and often make me discover awesome little gems.
The most useful/invaluable use case of Google Maps is to find coffee shops that allow me to work from my laptop. Power outlets? Good wifi? Laptop friendly? When I find a great one, I love sharing them in the reviews, and mark them in my “coffee work friendly” list.
Contributing to Google Maps :
I really appreciate when people write genuine and detailed review of how they experience a place. Because those reviews have been so invaluable, I’ve started to myself do it. My first review was 2 years ago, but I’ve since constantly adding more. I’ve written 400+ reviews, posted 2500+ photos, and trying to make them as helpful as possible.