What does the Local Guides program mean to me?
In a few words - Local Guides Program to me is a mix of useful and pleasant activity.
Why it is useful?
I use Google Maps for a really long time and I am glad to see how these services evolve, new options appear constantly. It’s very convenient to get information about service centers nearby, you use occasionally, information on rest places, route planning, photos, street view… I am even not sure I know all these options ))) Аnd what is most impressive to me, there are versions adapted to devices from different manufacturers, especially to the famous one that develop similar services for his own gadgets))) The combination of these equipment and Google applications is simply incredible! Google services have become so familiar to me, that I don’t try to learn features of applications of other developers. So for me it’s not ‘one of the sources’, but actually ‘the only one source’ of the information connected to the maps. Although I do not always keep track of new photos and reviews of places I have been to, and only use these services when needed, it is very convenient to get information from people with different views.
Why it is pleasant?
I do not have many social contacts: family and relatives, few friends, some colleagues. And I almost do not visit any social networks. So the Local Guides program became my social gateway to the World. When I see the number of people who have looked at my photos, read and liked my reviews, I feel myself better. Every time I receive notification of my last month Local Guide activity, it makes me feel I do useful things, I help other users all around the World. It inspire me to write more detailed and objective new posts, to give more attention to photo taking process, to choose best point of view, not just clicking to the left and to the right. This activity makes me to be more social integrated, I feel I am involved in a great program.