Hi!
I’d love to get to know more local guides, especially in Bangkok area. (You can write to me in English, Finnish, Swedish, Danish and Chinese. 我会说中文)
The reason why I ‘m passionate about using Google Maps is that I’m able to contribute in a fun, egoless, creative and anonymous to the locals, travelers and entrepreneurs. Using Google Maps is easy and fast, and making reviews is extremely convenient, much easier than with TripAdvisor, and much less commercial. I’m a huge fan of art and I love to post pictures anonymously and notice that people actually view them. I’m on track to reach 4 million views and level 10 this month … after that I will do my best to post only my best photos and with original resolution. I take all kinds of pictures, fun, creative, artistic, informative … pictures that others find useful or fun. It can be a dish in a cool and funky restaurant, a beautiful view, or even an information poster on a boat pier in Bangkok that is hard to find. I often post pictures from art exhibitions to spread information and pictures or artworks that I find interesting.
If I visit mountains in China or Canyons in US, I love to post a few photos and recommend my favorite spots to others, and if possible, recommend restaurants and hotels that I find extraordinary so that other can find them too. This is a win-win situation for everyone involved and it helps the good business owners and locals too. I also find that I understand and get to know my own surroundings better when I post something about them. When I find an awesome local family run Thai restaurant with Esan Food or fresh seafood, I’ll make sure to share pictures and a 4-5 star review. I also post pics of metro station exits … it helps people to find their way and decide where to meet.
I like to stay anonymous – because this is not about my ego in any ways. This is not an ego boosting social media activity … but it still makes me tingle. Fun. How about you?