The Local Guides program has meant a platform to share experiences of places that I love while simultaneously giving back to the society. This includes Farmers Butchery in Nyeri where I have bought beef meat for the last three years since I joined a local university that is located nearby, after having a few not-so satisfying experiences buying meat in supermarkets. Moreover, while sharing my thoughts over services and the feel of the places, I not only provide feedback to the small scale businesses that allows them to improve the delivery of their products, but also increase their credibility which helps them to build trust easily with new customers. It is fulfilling to know that being honest with my reviews has helped the owners of the places that I visit to give better services and also gain new and loyal customers.
(On the roof of Acacia Mall, Kampala)
Furthermore, the program has added a little more independence and confidence during my travels as the reviews of other local guides has always helped me to make informed decisions, assisting me to better budget my expenses and plan well in advance. As a person who loves to take themselves out on dates, I like trying out new places but unfortunately, most of the times these places do not have their prices or food dishes on a public domain where you can have a look beforehand. Therefore, the program has proved useful in giving me an idea in advance of what the price ranges are and also dishes that I can try out.
Finally, the program has meant long lasting friendships for me. I have made a few friends along the way, all local guides, who recommend places that I should check out and even sending me a number of reviews for me to look at.