I have been involved with the local guides program for a little over two years now. In that time-span, I have been a “local” in Pittsburgh, PA; Scranton, PA; and Gastonia, NC. Throughout my experience, I have learned that being a local guide means expression, adventure, and service.
The local guide program gives everyone a chance for expression. You are able to write your own small story for each place you have visited. Everyone has a different way of writing reviews, and it is wonderful to be able to see how each person expresses themselves. Personally, I am focused on vegetarian/pescetarian friendly restaurants because that is my current lifestyle and has been for ten years. I love being able to inform others of vegetarian options in different restaurants and knowing that information might help someone make with their decision makes it all worthwhile. I am also focused on the accessibility of a venue, restaurant, shop, or boutique. I believe that including accessibility in my reviews helps other who have specific concerns. Specifically, when it came to RuRu’s Tacos & Tequila, I think it was important to mention that the back entrance was not wheelchair accessible, it only had stairs. This would let future guests know to park at the front entrance if they needed a wheelchair ramp.
Being a google guide encourages you to be more adventurous. I have hiked to the top of Crowders Mountain State Park, I have been on 20 mile bike rides through the Laurel Highlands, I have been in a hot air balloon in Irvine California, I have hiked to the tallest point available in the grand canyon, I have been on the high roller in Las Vegas. Would I have done these things if I was not a google guide? Yes, because I am active and adventurous. But would I have been able to share my experiences with as many people without google guides? No. That is part of the beauty of being a google guide. I am able to share my thoughts and experiences with others, and in turn they are able to make more informed decisions about their plans. It is also a great way to keep track of where I have been and where I want to go.
Lastly, I feel as though being a google guide allows me to be of service to others. I like knowing that my reviews and photos are helping others. Seeing the positive impact from such a small gesture has encouraged me to write even more reviews in the past year. I enjoy writing reviews which benefit my community as well. One of my reviews which I believe can benefit those in my community, especially those with a lower socioeconomic status, was for the Gaston Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic. I was able to let people in my community know what to expect and how much their services would cost.
I am looking forward to trying new places and new activities in the near future. More reviews to come, stay tuned.