Hi, my name is Haruna, I’m a tour operator/travel agent. Traveling is not just a hobby to me but part of my routine, to explore places and experience first hand, about destination and places to be able to guide and advice my clients in the best manner. Since its practically impossible to visit every destination and events around the globe, I found Google map and local guide as an indispensable companion.
I used these tools to do wonderful things – compare prices, read reviews, view pictures, get suppliers contacts ask for add-ons - and explore places prior to my visit. Local guide gave me the opportunity to review, get testimonies, answer enquiry and be able to guide others.
Conversely, I see Local Guide program as a powerful tool in the promotion of local tourism. Getting to know hidden treasures, beautiful sceneries, local hangouts, traditional joints and so many uncovered local events and recipes, has become a high point of Local Guide program. As we discover and put many of these places on map, the more it attracts domestic and foreign visitors to pay visits and the more it empowers the residence and the people around the places, thereby improving their economic well-being.
One thing I found interesting and hope to continue doing is to hunt for hidden and less explored treasures, documents, review and ensure it enlisted on the Google map. This is what Local Guide mean to me.