Approximately two years ago, I received an email from Google inviting me to join the Local Guides program. I was over the moon from the invitation and I thought to myself joining this program is going to be an excellent opportunity, for reasons as follows:
- Food is a significant part of my life. I enjoy going to restaurants around the world and experiencing different and special flavors. I love discovering new cultures and to me through food is the best way.
- I love capturing moments and sharing them on social media, with emphasis on the dishes I am eating and the atmosphere of the place. Therefore, the cooperation with the Local Guides program felt very natural to me.
- At the time, I thought being one of the first to join the program would give me an edge over most people joining later. It seemed like a good moment to join the program while it is still in the beginning, so I would either benefit from it, or enjoy the road, or even both.
Initially, when I was photographing dishes and writing reviews, friends were asking me “Why are you doing it?” or “What are you going to get out of it?”. I explained to them that I love taking pictures and sharing different dishes, so it is natural for me to share these in the Guides program as well, and increase the exposure of my photos and reviews.
The more I shared on Local Guides, the more I realized the great value it gives other people, and how they can get up-to-date information (and opinion) about the restaurants I visited, and see authentic photos directly from me.
I also get various likes and comments from restaurants owners and other users, who share their thanks and appreciation for my detailed and honest reviews.
Today I share information, reviews and photos from all places I visit, from parks to shops.
Fried coconut ice-cream pictured at my favorite Chinese restaurant “Pat Qua” in Herzliya, Israel).
When I joined the program, I did not expect to be rewarded. Exposure, likes and comments gave me the desire and satisfaction to continue sharing my reviews. Moreover, as a foodie, I believe the best way to know where to visit and where to avoid are reviews. Although I feel like my contributions may be small, they are definitely essential.
The monthly update email is very convenient and it gives me a picture of my progress as a local guide. Since I started, I have already rated over 130 different places, and uploaded over 600 photos that have been exposed to thousands of different people.
Black Risotto with Calamari at “Donde Chucho” in Santa Marta, Columbia
Recently I received an email asking me to apply for the Local Guides Connect, and I thought this would be a great opportunity for me to get to know more guides from around the world, receive and share tips as a guide, and catch up on Google’s newest services.
As an undergraduate of economics and management from one of Israel’s most prestigious universities, it is important for me to seek for interesting business opportunities, and establish good relationships with people from all over the world.
I will be more than happy to be at the connect, so as I can add value for myself, and also to give value to other participants in the connect. Who knows what will happen? Maybe at the connect, I will find a business partner for my next adventure, or just make new friends.
Anyway, this seems like a great opportunity. Hope to see you at the Local Guides Connect!
My friend Chen and I at the authentic “Ezra Ubanav” restaurant, Azur, Israel