What does the Local Guides program mean to me

I will never forget my first trip abroad. It was a long time ago when there was no fast and affordable Internet and a lack of good online or offline maps and recommendation services. I have downloaded an offline map on my tablet and tried to use it in unknown places, even without geolocation. There were difficulties not only in finding where you are and where to go but in finding the right places for dinner, entertainment, rest, etc.

But now this stuff is much simpler. When I plan to go somewhere, and it doesn’t matter how far I am going to, firstly, I do one thing. I open Google Maps and look through my route and destination. I look up interesting or high rated places, save them and plan my trip. When I want to have dinner I also open Google Maps and explore nearby places.

The most important part for me is ratings and feedback from other users. The users’ ratings help me make the right decision about where to go. One interesting fact, usually the best places are located not on the touristic routes but somewhere near them and on the first look not remarkable, It is hard to find them without users’ feedback on the maps.

The first time I left feedback after receiving the message about the Local Guides program. It seemed interesting and fun to receive achievements for recommendations. It is really motivating when you see your progress. But the most important part for me is understanding that my feedback can help somebody to find the right place and also avoid bad ones. I think the Local Guides program makes trips simpler and the Local Guides communities make people closer, it is very important for me.

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Hi @Viktor_Aleksieiev

Welcome to the Local Guides Connect! Connect is a great place to meet Local Guides, share your experience and photos, give feedback and more. To learn more about forum, you can read this helpful post 14 helpful tips for using Connect

That other Local Guides could know more about you can introduce yourself just follow link Introduce Yourself - March 2020

If you are planning to apply for Connect Live 2020, please read this post carefully Connect Live 2020 application guidelines

Beautiful photo! Thank you Viktor for sharing your Local Guide experience with us!

Wish you good luck!