It all started by reading other peoples reviews and comments…
In planning for trips, I sat down and searched up some of the places I was interested in visiting, and then read what others had written, in their own words. I found those reviews so helpful and honest, and it was refreshing to hear first hand accounts from real human beings.
I thought to myself, “if this was helpful to me, I can only imagine how my own contributions might be helpful to others”. And so began my obsession with Google Local Guides. . .
I love and live for travelling. I’m fortunate that I am able to get away and discover new places. With Google Locale Guides, I’m able to combine my love of travelling with my love of writing, and my passion for photography.
So, what do I love sharing the most on Google Local Guides? Well, honestly, it’s those hidden-gem’s that I discover whenever I’m on the road. Some off the beaten path, some “local favourites” that perhaps tourists and non-locals wouldn’t find. It’s almost as if I’m stumbling upon a secret, and if I enjoyed it, I’m able to share it with the world. That said, I also love sharing pretty much any venue or place that has made an impact on my life or my trip.
There’s also something satisfying and rewarding about seeing more and more “pins” pop up on the globe as I add more and more reviews.
I feel like the purpose of life is to take in as many experiences as possible, learn from them and share them. Not only that, but to learn and listen from others experiences as well. With Google Local Guides, I’m able to achieve both by sharing my experiences with a larger community, of like-minded individuals.
I also love supporting local businesses! With customer reviews and ratings playing a larger role in our day to day lives, I feel it is important to take the extra step in providing a rating or review for a local business as I know my feedback will go directly to the establishment, while also helping others who may be considering a visit or purchase decision.
But, above all things, I LOVE sharing my photographs with the community. A picture speaks a thousand words, and I honestly believe that the more detail you put into your reviews by means of adding photographs, you’re painting a bigger picture and providing information to someone else who may also find it helpful.
Finally, I love the “nostalgia” factor that comes from looking back on past reviews. Sometimes, when I get the “wanderlust itch,” I go back through my timeline and read about my experiences to satisfy the need, and relive the trip.
There are so many other reasons why I love being a local guide, but in all honesty, it comes down to the following:
Travelling, Experiencing, Sharing, Listening, Photographing, Living. All of which I get out of the Google Local Guide community.