I am Pankaj and currently I live in the Netherlands. I got involved in the local guides program three years ago, when I moved to Europe as a research scientist. Since then, it has become a passion for me to contribute to local guides program through Google Maps and help people in the best possible way. Initially, I was unaware about how this platform will bring a change in my life, but due to my work schedule and travel plans in some of the beautiful cities around me, I developed interest in posting pictures on Google Maps. Moreover, as a local guide, I always have the urge to keep sharing my experiences by writing reviews about restaurants, its famous delicacy, and any stores that I happen to visit; I rate them and also add photos. On a global platform, it benefits locals and tourists and help them to make apt decisions. It has also brought world much closer like never before, where we can always stay informed and updated about the neighborhood and make decisions accordingly. Personally, I treat this program as a tool where it emphasizes a sustainable way to navigate to your closest destination, which also offers the best service, thereby saving time, fuel and energy.
Monthly e-mails from the local guides program make my day. I love to see the statistics for my contributions, and know that many people have been benefited from my additions or by simply answering the Q&A regularly. My contributions make me feel proud among my peers and friends; also, I love to spread a word about this platform and highlighting its mutual benefits. Timely perks are attractive, but most importantly, the motivation to outperform my own previous record is the main driving force that keeps me going. Presently, I have started to admire some of my activities as a tourist. For example, now I click a picture to bring out the beauty of the subject and also attract the tourist to visit a particular place. I try to make a note of leisure and supportive facilities around any destination I visit and answer the associated Q&A in the app. Although, I believe there are still many unexplored dimensions to this program, which I am eagerly looking forward to participate explore, and learn through interactions with other local guides at Google Connect Live 2020 event.