I became part of the Local Guides Program after shifting to New Delhi a couple of years ago.
In between my treatment schedules for a chronic health condition, home based freelance work and raising a young daughter who was sad and quiet after having left her school and friends in Mumbai, I started looking for ways to lift up her mood and mine.
I started exploring places like nature parks, lakes, that of historical significance, markets for shopping that were safe for women, kid friendly, had access to clean toilets and wheelchair. Soon, I got notifications on Google Map with an option to review the places I have been to. I reviewed some and was excited to see that just after a few days, they had gathered thousands of views.
Only then I realized, I could be of help answering people’s questions especially women who had apprehensions like mine on safety, accessibility and budgets before stepping out with kids and seniors. I explored places appropriate for young kids, budget friendly shopping markets, treatment facilities and entertainment destinations with their schedules and so on. Being a nature and food lover, I also explore eateries, parks and landmarks with facilities like access to clean washrooms and wheelchair.
This is how, becoming a local guide gave me a way to help young families, seniors and women who want to empower themselves with information, visit places they did not knew about previously and enjoy some wholesome food nearby. It also gives me an opportunity to bring to map, not so “yet popular small businesses” and local markets that I have reviewed and answered viewer questions for.
My daughter is now happily settled in her new life and I have been better since. With the local guide program support, I continue to explore, review and answer questions, even if it of help to just one person. I used to step out of the house for family needs, I now do it for my community.
Caption: Kid friendly indoor restaurant with swings and green interiors in New Delhi, India.