I never planned to become a local guide. It “just happened”—like many great things in life.
I´ve always been a guide. That tends to happen when you grow up in a foreign country. My parents emigrated from Lithuania to New York City. A few years later they traded the gritty streets of 80s New York to sunny, laid back, Panama. And that’s where I grew up.
We always had friends and relatives visit us from abroad. I showed them around, and so I became the designated family guide. It was great. I got to learn more about my city and they were eager to show me around when I visited Lithuania.
So when Google started sending me (very friendly) notifications, uploading photos and reviewing places occurred to me quite naturally. I loved to share the best my country has to offer. I have been doing this since I was a kid.
Of course, with Google Maps sharing can have a huge impact. You leave a trail of your experiences that others-- tourists, locals, and even friends can pick up. You become part of a community.
But lately, I’ve been using Google Maps for something very particular.
Living in a city has its perks; work, friends, and a lot to do. But I´ve always sought peace of mind in nature. For me, it´s the best way to disconnect from the agitated city life. Going away from the city can be a hassle. But what many people don’t know is that you can get the benefits of nature in the city!
That’s what Google maps showed me.
Before I thought that to get the best of nature I had to go somewhere far away. Google maps showed me a lot of places I can visit right here in my city. In Panama City where I´ve lived most of my life and in Vilnius, Lithuania where I currently live. The peace, calm, and adventure of nature can be right at the turn of a corner. And at your fingertips, if you use Google maps.
In Panama, you can hike up a mountain covered by jungle, view the sunrise on the top and be at your office desk by 9 am.
In Vilnius, you can explore ample forests that make you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. But you are just a 15-minute walk away from the cobbled streets of the old town.
And I am sure all cities have similar options.
This is how I´ve discovered places to explore without leaving the city, Parks, lakes, and hiking trails that have kept me busy, fit, and refreshed. Getting away from the noise, fast-pace, and the hedonistic treadmill of modern life can be a blessing. If you can find the places!
Everyone can benefit from having the spirit and beauty of nature right next to them. I definitely have. As a local guide I get to help others dive into the rejuvenating hands of nature without having to hit the road.
For me being a local guide means helping others live a better life by getting them closer to nature and an active lifestyle as close as possible to the city.